All of B.C.’s provincial parks have been shut down until further notice in a bid to halt the continuing spread of COVID-19.
The closure comes amid concerns expressed by leaders in more rural communities that the likes of the Easter long weekend and forthcoming holidays would see people flock to parks for recreation.
Both provincial and federal governments have directed people to avoid such activities and stay closer to home during the pandemic.
The B.C. government said it has tried to keep the parks open but found it too challenging to keep people a safe distance apart.
"Because physical distancing works, it is critical that we take every action needed to restrict the spread of COVID-19,” said George Heyman, B.C.’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy.
“This applies to British Columbians and out-of-province visitors who were planning to visit or stay at our provincial parks. The message is clear: stay home, avoid travel, do not put yourself or others at risk.
"I understand and share the love people in British Columbia have for the outdoors and the connection between health and proximity to nature.
“We tried to provide safe space for people to get some exercise and fresh air in our beautiful parks. But it has proven too challenging to maintain safe distance between visitors. This action is difficult but necessary. We look forward to the day we can welcome people back to our wonderful parks."
The timing of the decision, said the government, is important given the upcoming long weekend and the beginning of the busy season for outdoor recreation and camping.
BC Parks is also extending the ban on all camping in provincial parks until May 31, 2020, in alignment with neighbouring jurisdictions and the temporary closure of Canada's national parks. Refunds for bookings up to May 31 will be sent automatically.
As previously announced, the Recreation Sites and Trails BC (RSTBC) branch of the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development has also closed its campgrounds and amenities in response to the COVID-19 situation.
