Chatham / Wardsville –

Looking for reasons to fall camp? How about the scenery, weather, fewer bugs with the cooler weather, a good night’s sleep, smaller crowds!  The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (LTVCA) is extending its camping season to compensate for a late start at its two campgrounds until October 25, 2020. The C.M. Wilson Conservation Area is located just south east of Chatham and the Big Bend Conservation Area is minutes south east of Wardsville.  Based on the current guidance from the government and to promote physical distancing and the safety of staff and campers, a number of restrictions will remain in place.  The LTVCA is adhering to COVID-19 Guidelines as provided by the Government of Canada, Province of Ontario and local officials regarding the opening of campgrounds, as we continue to address this pandemic.  All campers must follow these guidelines and recommendations.

Reserve your campsite soon! Camping reservations are taken online through “Let’s Camp” on the LTVCA’s website www.ltvca.ca.  For C.M. Wilson go to https://ltvca.letscamp.ca/ and for Big Bend go to https://bigbend.letscamp.ca/ .  We will also accommodate campers arriving at the campgrounds without online reservations.  Transient overnight and limited stay campers will be booked at a 50% occupancy or as defined by the Area Supervisor.  Group campsites/reservations will be permitted based on current Provincial guidelines.

Washroom and shower facilities will remain open with enhanced sanitization protocols, however, campers will be encouraged to use bathroom facilities if they have them in their trailers or recreational vehicles. Contactless transactions will be preferred for electronic payment, and delivery of firewood (for sale at both campgrounds).  Enhanced cleaning and disinfection efforts are undertaken in campground sites and in all public/shared spaces such as picnic tables, garbage cans and other high-touch surfaces. All recreational facilities such as playgrounds that meet Provincial health recommendations will be open.  All community events may be permitted with participant limitations based on Provincial guidelines for gathering.

In order to keep our campgrounds open to enjoy and to keep our campers and staff safe, follow all Government and Health Unit COVID-19 guidelines including social distancing.

For further information:

C.M. Wilson Conservation Area

Adam Gibb – Western District Supervisor cmwilson@ltvca.ca

Big Bend Conservation Area

Vance Stark – Eastern District Supervisor bigbend@ltvca.ca