The location of Ontario’s first all-season, full-service provincial park in over 40 years was announced by the government.
The operating park, which will be close to Bracebridge in Bigwind Lake Provincial Park, will offer backcountry camping, electrified overnight campgrounds, and a variety of four-season recreational activities like cross-country skiing, canoeing, and hiking. The park is expected to add up to 25 new cabins and 250 campground campsites to the Ontario Parks system when it is finished.
“Having grown up setting up camp in Ontario Parks with my father, I know exactly that it is so exceptional to approach nature,” said David Piccini, Priest of the Climate, Preservation and Parks. ” Our government recognizes the significance of investing in Ontario Parks, which is the largest provider of outdoor recreational experiences in the province, as this will be the first new operating provincial park in nearly two generations.
Bigwind Lake Provincial Park is currently categorized as a non-operating provincial park. This means that it provides self-guided, low-intensity recreational opportunities such as hiking and nature appreciation, but it does not have staff, facilities that are maintained, or campsites.
The new operating provincial park that is being proposed will be fully serviced and designed with the experience of the visitor in mind. The amenities and modern buildings that today’s campers and park users expect will be provided by electrified campsites, a visitor center, and charging stations for electric vehicles. The recreation area configuration will likewise think about earth manageable components, like low-energy structures, simple to-get to trekking and strolling courses, and untamed life cordial preparation and plan, so the recreation area stays a crucial piece of the normal scene for a long time into the future.
Some of Ontario’s most popular provincial parks are located in Parry Sound–Muskoka. Graydon Smith, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry and MPP for Parry Sound–Muskoka, stated, “Today’s announcement reaffirms our government’s commitment to protecting these special places.” Occupants and travelers will before long approach another genuinely gorgeous and quintessential common park. Bigwind Lake Provincial Park is going to become a very popular destination for people who want to take in the beauty of our region, and I am absolutely certain of that.
The government will discuss the proposed new operating park with Indigenous communities, local municipalities, stakeholders, and the general public over the next few months. People likewise have a chance to remark on the recreation area’s plan highlights until August 6. Bigwind Lake Provincial Park construction is expected to begin in the fall of 2024.
“The Town of Bracebridge is focused on local area wellbeing and prosperity and we are excited that the new park will add new conveniences, including camping areas and roofed facilities to Bigwind Lake Common Park, operationalizing the space for guests all year. “These new features will help to further strengthen our tourism and hospitality sectors, provide a space for people to connect with nature, and align with our commitment of encouraging long-term economic growth,” stated Rick Maloney, Mayor of the Town of Bracebridge. “The vibrant community and landscape of Bracebridge attract visitors to experience it for themselves.
Another way the Ontario government is preserving and enhancing the province’s natural beauty, expanding recreational opportunities for families, and building stronger, healthier communities is by creating a new operating park.
