Alcohol ban in effect for May long weekend at provincial parks

Saskatchewan’s provincial parks are set to open to campers Thursday, but patrons will have to leave their booze at home for the first first days.

As has been the case in previous years, a ban on alcohol and recreational cannabis is to be in effect in campgrounds through the May long weekend. Cottages, rental cabins and licensed establishments in the parks aren’t covered by the ban.

Campers can buy daily and weekly park entry permits online and print them at home before heading to the park. If visitors have bought an annual permit but it hasn’t been delivered yet, a temporary permit that was sent in an email can be printed and put in the campers’ vehicle.

When they arrive at the park, campers can go straight to their campsite with their permit showing and they’ll be automatically checked in.

“The May long weekend has marked the start of a new camping season for many years now in our province,” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Laura Ross said in a media release.

“It’s the weekend where seasonal campers set up their home away from home for the summer, and the weekend where many families get to enjoy their first campfire of the year together. We are looking forward to another busy but memorable season in the parks.”

Park programs and events are scheduled to begin in many parks this weekend. More information and pre-registration for programs is available here.

Self-guided Park Discovery Packs also will be available to borrow in most parks starting this weekend. The packs feature everything campers will need to do a craft, explore the park or conduct a science experiment.