The Ontario government is opening provincial parks and conservation reserves back up for limited day-use access.
The first 520 provincial parks and conservation reserves will open on May 11, with the 115 remaining areas opening on May 15.
Premier Doug Ford made the announcement on Saturday afternoon. Provincial parks were originally closed on March 18 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
For the time being, recreational activities will be limited to walking, hiking, biking, and birdwatching.
All buildings and facilities including washrooms, water taps, campgrounds, backcountry campsites, roofed accommodations, playgrounds, and beaches continue to be closed.
"As we continue to make progress in our fight to stop the spread of COVID-19, we are carefully and cautiously reopening the province, starting with certain businesses and retailers, and now our provincial parks and conservation reserves," said Ford. "I encourage people to get out and enjoy the outdoors, but please do so in a responsible way. Practise physical distancing and follow the rules set out by health care officials to stop the spread of this virus."
Day visitors will also be able to access all parks and conservation reserves for free until the end of the month.
Anyone planning a day trip is encouraged to visit ontarioparks.com to check the status of specific parks.