June 11, 2020 – The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) is opening day use washrooms at Fanshawe Conservation Area (London) on June 12 and Pittock Conservation Area (Woodstock) on June 15. Backcountry camping at Wildwood Conservation Area (St. Marys) will open June 22.

UTRCA staff members are reaching out to local health units and other campground staff to discuss safe protocols for opening overnight camping. The UTRCA will give an update announcement about overnight camping on Tuesday, June 16 at 3 pm.

“We are phasing in more services at our conservation areas over the next few weeks while ensuring the safety of staff and visitors,” said Jennifer Howley, UTRCA Conservation Areas Manager. “We need people to continue to respect physical distancing and group size maximums.”

What’s Open at Fanshawe Conservation Area?
– Seasonal camping
– Trails for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature
– Day use and boat launch/reservoir
– Day use washrooms open on Friday, June 12 (8 am – 7 pm)

What’s Open at Pittock Conservation Area?
– Seasonal camping
– Trails for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature
– Day use and boat launch/reservoir
– Day use washrooms (north shore and south shore) open on Monday, June 15 (9 am – 9 pm)

What’s Open at Wildwood Conservation Area?
– Seasonal camping begins Monday, June 15
– Trails for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature
– Day use and boat launch/reservoir
– Limited day use washrooms at the marina
– Backcountry camping opens on Monday, June 22

Safety of Staff and Visitors is Paramount
– Visitors may experience line-ups at gatehouses and boat launches – please be respectful and patient.
– Staff will be practicing zero tolerance for rule breakers.
– Please arrive prepared to tap pay with Visa/Mastercard/Debit.

If you visit:
– Respect physical distancing requirements and “group size” maximums.
– Please follow all posted rules at trailheads, campgrounds, and boat launches.
– Keep your pet leashed at all times – free running pets can be a danger to people and wildlife.

Please watch for updates:
www.fanshaweconservationarea.ca
www.wildwoodconservationarea.ca
www.pittockconservationarea.ca

Contact: Steve Sauder, Marketing Specialist