HRM: Nova Scotia’s provincial parks had another successful year, welcoming more than 247,000 visitors at camping parks and over one million at day-use parks.
The number of campsite night bookings in provincial campgrounds this year was 80,583, a slight increase over 2019. Since 2015 the number of campsites booked rose by about 31 per cent.
Public health measures have been in place at all parks, allowing campers and visitors to enjoy and explore the parks safely during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“As many Nova Scotians stayed closer to home this summer, they’ve rediscovered our beautiful provincial parks and the mental and physical health benefits they provide,” said Lands and Forestry Minister Derek Mombourquette.
“Our parks offer a full range of physical activities in the great outdoors. Hiking, swimming, canoeing and mountain biking are all part of a healthier lifestyle.”
All provincial parks infrastructure, such as washrooms, change houses and campsites, are now closed for the season but people are encouraged to continue visiting parks to enjoy walking, cross-country skiing and other activities.
Quick Facts:
–there are 20 provincial camping parks and more than 130 day-use and beach parks in Nova Scotia
–to ensure physical distancing, the season started with about 30 per cent of sites closed; in mid-July additional sites opened, but more than 100 sites were closed all season
–with COVID-19 restrictions and the formation of the Atlantic Bubble, about 96 per cent of campers came from Nova Scotia, with four per cent from other parts of Atlantic Canada
Additional Resources:
To learn more about Nova Scotia’s provincial parks, visit http://parks.novascotia.ca
