In the summer of 2015, Saskatchewan Provincial Parks joined with Ontario Parks and sponsors Coleman, Canadian Tire, Off and Swish to run a new and exciting program called Learn to Camp. This program was designed to introduce first time campers to the skills and knowledge that they require so that they can go out and camp in our beautiful provincial parks. Three different ways for people to learn are available: an in-park overnight experience, presentations to community groups and organizations, and online at saskaparks.net.
In the overnight experience, participants can choose either a one night or two night experience in one of three participating provincial parks. Learn To Camp supplies all of the camping gear needed including the bug spray. Throughout the program, park staff deliver sessions such as: how to set up your campsite, cooking in the outdoors, building a fire, plus much more. There is also time for Learn To Campers to enjoy some of the amazing services and facilities Saskatchewan Provincial Parks have to offer such as swimming, fishing or nature walks. Camps run from late June through mid-August and costs only $30 per group (max. 5 people, 3 adults) in 2017!
During community presentations, participants are provided with the information needed to head out and explore our provinces lovely parks. They will learn about all of the activities and amenities our parks have to offer, the gear needed to go camping and information about planning a camping trip.
Saskatchewan Parks provides detailed information on the Learn To Camp Program as well as the individual provincial parks on their website saskparks.net including amenities, registration and events held at the parks.
The Learn To Camp program is an amazing opportunity for anyone who has always wanted to learn how to camp and those who are unsure if they would like camping but would like to try it. For more information contact learntocamp@gov.sk.ca.
Adapted from the September 2015 issue of DIRECTION magazine article Saskatchewan Provincial Parks Learn to Camp by Janette Hamilton, Manager of Visitor Services, Parks Division – Saskatchewan Parks, Culture and Sport.
