Getting back to nature in beautiful B.C. is going to cost a little bit more after March
To maintain high service levels in B.C. provincial parks for an increasing number of visitors, the province is raising camping fees as of March 15.
“British Columbia’s world-renowned parks provide superb recreational opportunities for visitors from throughout the province and around the world. From diverse terrain to temperate climate, our parks are truly a unique treasure,” said Mary Polak, Minister of Environment, in a press release.
“By increasing user fees in campgrounds, campers who use the parks system are helping to keep it sustainable for future generations to enjoy.”
While the fee schedule varies, the vast majority of provincial campsites will see a $2 per night increase, while others will see slightly larger increase in price, to a maximum of $5 per night. The last system-wide increase was in 2010.
Local provincial parks are include in a list highlighting the new fees – Beaver Creek Park will cost $21 (per night); Champion Lakes $25; Syringa Creek $26; Gladstone $27; Kokanee Creek $32, Nancy Greene Lake $13.
There are no increases to fees for sani-stations, mooring buoys, backcountry camping, picnic shelters, or group camping.
For a complete list of campgrounds and updated fees, visit www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/fees/userfees.pdf
The increase is expected to generate $1.3 million this year for B.C.’s protected areas system. All revenue from the increased fees will be put back into maintaining and enhancing the parks system.
Over the past five years, BC Parks has invested approximately $60 million in park facilities, and has approximately $700 million of investment in infrastructure that requires maintenance.