BC Parks has set a new all-time record in 2013 for the number of reservations made at provincial campsites.

This year to date, over 115,000 camping reservations have been made through Discover Camping, the Province’s camping reservation service. This is a 12 per cent increase, surpassing the first time BC Parks broke 100,000 reservations in 2012.

2013 also saw more campsites and campgrounds (Kleanza Creek, Martha Creek, Chilliwack Lake, Mable Lake and Bowron Lake) added to the reservation system, bringing the total number of reservable sites to over 5,000 in 95 provincial parks throughout B.C.

While the Labour Day long weekend signifies the end of summer and the regular camping season, many BC Parks campgrounds are open throughout September and are often quieter after Labour Day. From spectacular hikes that showcase the natural beauty of the changing season to spawning salmon, the fall season offers many unique things to see and do. Dates of operation are on a park-by-park basis and depend on factors such as climate and demand.

Another highlight of this season is British Columbia’s long-stay camping program, where visitors can stay at six B.C. provincial parks between four weeks and six months for reduced rates. The long-stay camping program is offered during select seasons at Tunkwa Provincial Park (southwest of Kamloops), Rosebery Provincial Park (north of New Denver), Blanket Creek Provincial Park (south of Revelstoke), Crooked River Provincial Park (north of Prince George), Norbury Lake Provincial Park (south of Fort Steele) and Moyie Lake Provincial Park (south of Cranbrook).

Senior camping discounts are available to B.C. residents 65 years of age and older from the day after Labour Day through to June 14 of next year.

If you plan on camping in the next few weeks, please be aware of any campfire bans, restrictions or closures by visiting: www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/campfire_bans.html