Campers can expect upgrades at some of their favourite territorial parks now that camping season is officially open in the Northwest Territories.
Most parks in the NWT are now open with the exception of Sambaa Deh Falls and Fort Simpson Territorial Park which open on Friday. Blackstone Territorial Park and parks along the Dempster Highway open on June 1.
More information: Spectacular Northwest Territories
The territorial government’s Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI) says park users will notice improvements at a number of facilities this year, including ones in Yellowknife.
The department has committed $3.5 million to the NWT’s five regions and has also invested in marketing strategies outside of the territory to drive campers here.
“From the Beaufort Delta to the Dehcho, the NWT is fortunate to have the most unique, spectacular parks the world has to offer,” said Bob McLeod, minister of ITI.
“The [department] is working to leverage this natural beauty with strategic investment to bring explorers from across the nation and the world to our territory in support of a stronger, more diverse economy while providing world-class facilities for the enjoyment and well-being of our citizens.”
Some changes campers can expect this year include:
- Beaufort Delta: improvements to lake access road and expansion and improvements to the RV campsite loop at Gwich’in Territorial Park
- South Slave: new group camping area to be constructed at Queen Elizabeth Territorial Park, washroom improvements at 60th Parallel Territorial Park and increased number of showers at Fort Providence Territorial Park to meet growing demand
- North Slave: improvements to one kitchen shelter and new children’s playground in Loop D at Fred Henne Territorial Park, expanded day-use area and improved accessibility for those with disabilities at Yellowknife River Territorial Park
- Dehcho: washroom and shower facilities improvements at Fort Simpson Territorial Park
- Sahtu: infrastructure improvements along the Canol Trail