Editor, The Times:
Re: BC Parks fees
We are fortunate in B.C. to have a world-renowned parks system that provides superb recreational opportunities for visitors from across the province and around the globe.
Over the past five years, we have invested approximately $60 million in park facilities, delivering projects directed at attracting young families, offering new recreation opportunities and increasing attendance. It’s important to note that BC Parks has approximately $700 million invested in infrastructure that requires ongoing maintenance.
B.C.’s protected areas system already benefits from certain sponsorships, partnerships and donations, including sponsorship of more than 250 bear-proof recycling bins by Encorp Pacific and sponsorship of 100 park benches to celebrate BC Parks’ centennial in 2011. We continue to explore further innovative funding options; however, no decisions have been made in this regard.
To maintain high quality service in BC Parks for an increasing number of visitors, the Province is raising camping fees as of March 15, 2015. The last system-wide increase was in 2010.
While the fee schedule varies, the majority of provincial campsites will see a $2 per night increase, while others will see a slightly larger increase in price, to a maximum of $5 per night.
We are keeping increases as low as possible to ensure camping in B.C.’s parks remains affordable for all British Columbians and visitors to our province.
Mary Polak,
Minister of Environment
