TORONTO – Hundreds of Ontario’s provincial parks will reopen beginning Monday, Premier Doug Ford has announced. The parks will be open for day use only, and some amenities will remain closed to the public.
Parks will be open only for walking, hiking, biking, and birdwatching, the government said. Camping will remain prohibited, and beaches, playgrounds, and facilities including washrooms and water taps will be off limits. Parks will be free to use through the end of the month
520 of the province’s 635 parks are expected to reopen Monday, while the remainder will follow suit Friday, May 15.
Ford emphasized that visitors are expected to follow public health guidelines, such as maintaining physical distance and avoiding gathering in groups.
“We’re trusting people to be responsible and take this seriously, so that they can enjoy themselves while staying safe and healthy,” the premier said.
Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks Jeff Yurek added that Ontarians are asked to visit only the provincial park closest to their community to avoid unnecessary travel. He added that visitors should bring supplies including drinking water and hand sanitizer, since those amenities will not immediately be available at parks.
Ontarians are encouraged to check online for the status of their closest park before visiting. Sleeping Giant provincial park has announced on social media that it will reopen on May 15.
