Camping season is upon us and the province has a pilot project in place in hopes to allow visitors a bit more peace and quiet this summer.
 
Effective June 1, Alberta Parks will restrict the use of generators at eight provincial parks and provincial recreation areas to "improve visitor experiences," across Alberta In a release, officials say the loud noise emitted by generators can disrupt the experience for other campers.

"New fuel generator rules in eight provincial parks and provincial recreation areas will help manage excessive noise and ensure all campers can connect with, and appreciate, the great outdoors," Alberta Parks wrote in a statement.


As of June 1 fuel generator use will be restricted to between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at select campgrounds: 

    •  Bow Valley and Bow River Campgrounds at Bow Valley Provincial Park;
    •  Lodgepole and Ferguson Hill Campgrounds at Cypress Hills Provincial Park;
    •  Gooseberry Campground at Gooseberry Provincial Recreation Area;
    •  Long Lake Campground at Long Lake Provincial Park;
    •  Miquelon Lake Campground at Miquelon Lake Provincial Park;
    •  Elkwoods Campground at Peter Lougheed Provincial Park;
    •  Pigeon Lake and Zeiner Campgrounds at Pigeon Lake Provincial Park; and
    •  Wabamun Lake Campground at Wabamun Lake Provincial Park.


For those who have booked at these sites and want to change or cancel their reservation as a result of the pilot program should be advised that a $10 fee will be charged by the Alberta Parks' online system.

Any changes made through the contact centre (1-877-537-2757) prior to April 22 will be eligible for a refund of that levy.

Alberta Parks says the pilot program is the result of feedback received from satisfaction surveys completed by visitors that suggested that fuel generators are "especially disruptive" when it comes to noise.

"Excessive noise complaints put pressure on Alberta Parks' staff, conservation officers, and facility operators while reducing visitor satisfaction. It is our hope that introducing new rules will make the great outdoors more enjoyable for everyone."

Medical exemptions are available for visitors, such as those who require a CPAP or BIPAP machine. Instructions on how to apply for that documentation is available on the Alberta Parks' website.

The restrictions will be in place for the rest of the 2022 camping season.

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