BC Parks is closing Stawamus Chief Provincial Park and Protected Area, the Murrin and Shannon Falls provincial parks in Squamish.
Several other parks across the province have also been closed, including the Joffre Lakes Provincial Park.
These closures are in addition to a previous suspension of services and facilities in provincial parks, including visitor centres, nature houses, washrooms and day-use areas.
All campgrounds will also remain closed until April 30.
Parks throughout British Columbia are seeing an increase in visitors, but many people are not complying with the provincial health officer’s requirement to stay at least two metres away from others. This puts the most vulnerable populations at risk, government said.
“The mental and physical wellness benefit of being outside during the COVID-19 pandemic response is important, but keeping people safe right now is the most important thing we can be doing,” said George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy.
“Until we flatten the transmission curve of COVID-19 and people strictly comply with the physical distancing requirement, provincial park access will be restricted.”
BC Parks said it will continue to monitor the COVID-19 outbreak closely and follow the direction and advice set out by the Ministry of Health.
Additional provincial park closures may be implemented on a case-by-case basis where and when required.
People who still choose to visit provincial parks are reminded that they are responsible for their own safety and that washroom facilities will not be available.
