Easy Camping? Now, that's Awesome!

Time to register for your first camping experience

OTTAWA, April 22, 2014 /CNW/ - Canadians longing to connect with nature but who aren't sure where to begin need look no further.

Parks Canada, in collaboration with Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC), is inviting Canadians to register now for a new season of learn-to-camp activities in some of Canada's most beloved natural and historic settings.

Parks Canada and MEC staff will be on site to offer tips and workshops on camping basics like how to set up a tent, how to cook outdoors and what to pack.

Camping in a national park has never been so easy

This year, Parks Canada is also launching a new equipped campsite program at eight national parks with equipment donated by MEC. This new initiative will allow camping newbies and would-be campers without the necessary equipment to enjoy the pleasures of camping. These campsites will be furnished with basic equipment such as tents, sleeping pads, lanterns and stoves along with a fire pit and picnic table.

And for those wishing to try camping but who would like a little more comfort, Parks Canada continues to offer oTENTik accommodation. Each Parks Canada oTENTik is equipped with a table, chairs and three beds to accommodate up to six visitors. Campsites offer parking for up to two vehicles, and include a picnic table and fire pit. Once again visitors need only bring their food, personal effects and sleeping bags. Campers can reserve an oTENTik tent online at www.reservation.parkscanada.gc.ca or by phone at 1-877-737-3783.

Quick Facts

• Learn-to camp events will take place across the country from June 14^th to September 14^th. To register or get more information on learn-to camp and equipped campsites, call 1­888­773­8888.
  
  
• Since 2010, the Learn-to Camp program has given over 3,800 participants the opportunity to learn basic camping skills while discovering Canada's natural and cultural heritage.
  
  
• OTENTik tents are designed and manufactured in Canada and are exclusive to Parks Canada. They are found at 14 locations in different national parks and national historic sites.
  
  
• Lots of great family-oriented activities are available at each location and can be enjoyed during an overnight stay at the park.
  
  

Quotes

"The beauty of our country is something that all Canadians should enjoy. By offering programs such as Learn-to Camp we will help more Canadians build memorable experiences and discover the pleasure of the outdoors."

The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Canada's Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada

"The 2014 Learn to Camp program promises to be the best yet, and MEC is once again proud to help Canadians discover and experience the joy of camping."

David Labistour, CEO, Mountain Equipment Co-op

Associated Links
www.reservation.parkscanada.gc.ca
www.pc.gc.ca/eng/media/ltc-dlc/index.aspx
www.pc.gc.ca/eng/voyage-travel/hebergement-accommodation/otentik.aspx

Image with caption: "Lots of great family-oriented activities are available at each Learn-to-Camp location and can be enjoyed during an overnight stay at a Parks Canada place. (CNW Group/Parks Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140422_C4588_PHOTO_EN_39497.jpg

SOURCE: Parks Canada

Contacts

Media Relations 
Parks Canada 
819-953-8371 
www.twitter.com/parkscanada

Tim Southam
MEC Public Affairs
[email protected]
604-561-4528 (cell)
604-707-4480 (office)