As the May long weekend approaches, the province is once again asking British Columbians to be mindful of Covid-19 pandemic precautions, and to avoid all non-essential travel.

While Dr. Bonnie Henry has encouraged people to get out and enjoy the outdoors, she has also urged people to maintain physical distance and to avoid gathering in large groups.

As of May 14, all provincial campgrounds remain closed, but most provincial parks, recreation sites, beaches, picnic areas, washroom facilities and boat launches will be reopened for day use.

According to a press release from the provincial government, “Some parks will remain closed due to potential challenges with high numbers of anticipated visitors. If you get to your favourite park and find it busy, come back another time.”

It is requested that people visit only their local provincial parks and recreation sites, and not to travel or resume their pre Covid-19 tourism plans.

Provincial Health Officer Bonnie Henry has offered safety guidelines for those wanting to enjoy the long weekend safely, and without putting vulnerable community members at risk.

  • Do not visit vacation properties or secondary homes, as access to resources and healthcare may be more challenging in a smaller community if there is a community outbreak or someone becomes ill
  • Do not go pleasure boating, many small coastal and First Nations communities have closed access to their villages in order to limit the spread of Covid-19, limiting access boaters will have to fuel, supplies and services
  • Do not use BC Ferries unless strictly necessary, service has been reduced on many BC Ferries routes and for sailings over 30 minutes Transport Canada requires Covid-19 screening
  • Enjoy the outdoors with caution, if you are injured or become lost or stuck in the backcountry, search and rescue crews or other first responders may have to rescue you, which increases their risk of being exposed to the coronavirus and forces them to use valuable supplies of PPE

In addition, British Columbians are asked to plan ahead and stick to well marked trails, and to remember that small campfires are allowed but other burning bans remain in effect.

Stay local and keep your community safe.