THUNDER BAY – Backcountry camping in Ontario parks and on Crown lands will be permitted on Monday.
The province said it will begin gradually reintroducing the opportunities, while encouraging residents to stay safe and continue practice physical distancing.
Starting on Monday, the province said backcountry camping at Ontario Parks will include access points, paddle and portage routes and hiking trails.
Picnicking and off-leash pet areas will also be available for expanded day-use activities.
"We are all eager to get outside this time of year, and backcountry camping will give people a low-risk way to enjoy the benefits of being outdoors while following physical distancing rules," said Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, Jeff Yurek, in a release issued Saturday by the province.
"We're counting on people to be responsible when enjoying our parks and continue to follow all of the public health measures to help stop the spread of COVID-19."
No more than five people will be permitted to stay at a backcountry campsite, unless they live in the same household.
Crown land camping will be permitted, but the province still encourages physical distancing and mask wearing as ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
"Even as we begin to reopen camping so that Ontarians can enjoy our beautiful outdoors, people's health and well-being remain our top priority," said Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry John Yakabuski.
"We have to work together to ensure we open our province in a responsible, cautious manner. We are starting to contain the virus, but we cannot risk undoing all of the progress that we have made by reopening the province too quickly."
However, all other overnight camping at provincial parks and conservation areas will not be allowed until at least mid-month, the closure extended until June 14.
Buildings, campgrounds, roofed accommodations, visitor centres, park stores, playgrounds and beaches remain closed.
Ontario Parks will begin collecting fees on Monday for backcountry camping and provincial park day use.
