By Pete McIntyre

Some BC Parks closed due to social distancing concerns; Kal Lake Park still open

Mar 24, 2020 | 1:42 PM

While some provincial parks are being shut down over social distancing concerns, Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park in Greater Vernon remains open.

The province said parks throughout B.C. are seeing an increase in visitors, but many people are not complying with the province’s social distancing rules to stay at least two metres away from others, putting vulnerable populations at risk.

“BC Parks has heard concerns from the public, RCMP and First Nations, as well as regional and municipal governments about the increase in visitors and is implementing full closures of certain parks throughout the province,” said a government news release.

The only Okanagan park being closed at this point is Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park near Penticton.

Click here for details on the affected parks.

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For an update on Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, click here.

These closures are in addition to a previous suspension of services and facilities in provincial parks, including visitor centres, nature houses, washrooms and day-use areas. In alignment with Parks Canada, all campgrounds are closed until April 30, 2020.

BC Parks will continue to monitor the COVID-19 outbreak and follow the direction and advice set out by the PHO and the Ministry of Health. Additional provincial park closures may be implemented on a case-by-case basis where and when required. People who still choose to visit provincial parks should be mindful that they are responsible for their own safety and that washroom facilities will not be available.

In addition to the BC Parks closures, the Recreation Sites and Trails BC (RSTBC) branch of the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development is closing its campgrounds and amenities in response to the COVID-19 situation.

RSTBC campgrounds are generally located in remote areas and provide basic facilities. Potable water and electricity are not provided. The temporary closure includes RSTBC campgrounds where there is an increased likelihood of close contact with frequently touched surfaces, including toilets, kiosks, ticket booths, overnight shelters and day-use shelters. Day-use shelters, backcountry cabins, warming huts, ticket booths at snowmobile areas and other built facilities will be closed.

Backcountry trails will remain open, but maintenance services, including grooming, have been suspended. Trail users are encouraged to use local facilities and not travel for recreation purposes. The facilities accessed by these groups will also remain closed.

by Pete McIntyre

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