Provincial park camping usage up

Kevin Aylward, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, announced today that provincial park camping usage for the period mid-May to the beginning of September is up approximately 3.5 per cent. The province operates 13 parks with 1,185 campsites. A total of 43,137 camping units were registered for these sites for that period.

Lockston Path Provincial Park on the Bonavista Peninsula had the largest increase in usage with an increase of 33 per cent. This is attributed in part to the new water and electric hookups to 20 sites and the comfort station with hot showers, laundry facilities and flush toilets. The new interpretation centre and programs are a wonderful addition to the park.

Provincial parks are meeting the demands of the camping public as there are now comfort stations in eight of the twelve provincial parks. Notre Dame Provincial Park opened its new facilities in August.

"I would like to thank all those who visited our provincial parks during the past season and would like to remind the public the park trails and roads are available for hiking and walking," said Minister Aylward. "When the snow arrives, cross-country ski trails will be available in Butter Pot and Norte Dame Provincial Parks."

Media contact: Catherina Kennedy, Communications, (709) 729-0928.

2001 11 02                          5:25 p.m.