Additional Grand River Parks open early to provide more local outdoor options

The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) is taking steps to help support the mental health and well-being of watershed residents by providing additional opportunities to get outdoors while staying local this spring. Effective April 23, all Grand River Parks, with the exception of Elora Quarry, will open for limited day-use access ahead of the previously scheduled May 1 opening date.

Overnight and seasonal camping temporarily suspended

Due to the emergency declaration and stay-at-home order issued by the Ontario provincial government, overnight and seasonal camping at Grand River Parks has been temporarily suspended and all GRCA campsites will remain closed until the order is lifted. Those guests who have overnight campsite reservations booked while the stay-at-home order is in place will receive full refunds automatically. Those with seasonal campsites will be contacted directly.

COVID-19 pandemic restrictions

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, GRCA conservation areas will continue to operate at a reduced capacity and guests are expected to follow all provincial and local public health guidelines including limiting travel outside of their region, unless absolutely necessary. Some washroom facilities will be open and garbage receptacles will be available; however, guests are encouraged keep their visits short and to take their garbage home with them when possible. Access to picnic areas will be restricted for the duration of the order. Boat rentals and food concessions will remain closed for the season, as will swimming pools at Brant and Byng Island conservation areas and the splash pad at Elora Gorge Conservation Area.

To stay up-to-date on park and activity status, visit www.grandriver.ca/parkstatus for real-time information about whether a park is open or has reached its operating capacity for the day.

For updates on GRCA programs and services affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, visit www.grandriver.ca/COVID19.

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Media contacts:

Cam Linwood, GRCA Supervisor, Strategic Communications
Phone 519-621-2763 x2251  |  Email clinwood@grandriver.ca

Lisa Stocco, GRCA Manager, Strategic Communications and Environmental Education
Phone 519-621-2763 x2316  |  Email lstocco@grandriver.ca