May 13, 2021 Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta Parks Canada Agency
Parks Canada administers one of the finest and most extensive systems of natural and cultural heritage places in the world. With access to outdoor spaces more important than ever before, camping is a popular way for Canadians to experience these places.
Today, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, announced $8.7 million towards the design work and first phase of reconstruction for the Crandell Mountain Campground, and highlighted improvements to the Townsite Campground's visitor infrastructure as it reopens for the 2021 season.
The Crandell Mountain Campground was destroyed in the 2017 Kenow Wildfire, and is being rebuilt, along with over 30 other assets, as part of the Road to Recovery program. Funding includes the design work for phase one and two of the campground, rare plant salvage and hazard tree removal, as well as phase one of reconstruction which includes completing underground utilities and infrastructure, the water tank and water treatment building, wildlife corridor reclamation and rough grading the Crandell Lake Trail parking lot and trailhead. Construction for phase one is expected to begin this spring, with green infrastructure at the forefront.
The Townsite Campground reopened in time for the 2021 season on May 7. The Government of Canada has invested over $10 million in the campground as part of the Federal Infrastructure Investment program. Improvements include redeveloped campsites with new trees, landscaping and utility infrastructure, resurfaced roads and new washrooms. Work continues on the campground's maintenance facilities. This investment ensures the quality and reliability of the campground's infrastructure and an enhanced visitor experience.
Investments in visitor facilities, such as Crandell Mountain and Townsite campgrounds, ensures high-quality, meaningful, and enjoyable experiences for people coming to Parks Canada administered places, while also contributing to growth in the tourism sector over the long-term. Rebuilding and enhancing services in these campgrounds is an investment in Waterton Lakes National Park's future as both campgrounds will serve visitors for decades to come.
