Wildfire evacuees welcome to access national parks and stay free of charge
Gatineau – Canada continues to experience an unprecedented wildfire season with thousands of Canadians being impacted with widespread evacuations, loss of personal property, and damage to critical infrastructure. As all levels of government work together to respond to the ongoing wildfire situation, wildfire management specialists and other critical service personnel from various jurisdictions across Canada, in addition to thousands of international resources, have mobilized to support impacted communities, by managing and responding to wildfires, sharing resources and equipment, and supporting evacuations.
To support evacuees, Parks Canada continues to offer free admission and front-country stays in national parks in British Columbia and Alberta to residents who have been forced to evacuate their communities in the Northwest Territories and British Columbia, until evacuation orders have been lifted. As is well known, Parks Canada campgrounds in British Columbia and Alberta are extremely popular and often fully booked. Free stays, which may include Parks Canada roofed accommodation in some places (such as oTENTiks), is based on availability of campsites, on a first come first served basis.
Evacuees and visitors to national parks are encouraged to visit the Parks Canada website, download Parks Canada’s mobile app or directly call the national park before traveling.
“The Government of Canada will continue to support evacuees and communities during these challenging times. My thoughts go out to all those who have been impacted by these devastating wildfires.” – Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada