Port Moody BC. Annual Canadian RVing and Camping Week is now underway from Tuesday, May 24 to Sunday, May 29, 2016. More than 200 campgrounds from coast-to-coast, with 33 located in British Columbia, are participating in this annual event that showcases all that Canadian camping has to offer.
Family Fun Roasting Marshmallows
Canadian RVing and Camping Week is designed to encourage Canadians to get outside to enjoy a fun, safe and secure camping experience with family and friends. Participating campgrounds are offering either a special discounted rate of $50 for two nights May 28 and 29, or stay five for the price of four, to showcase the best of what British Columbia’s Camping has to offer.
Camping is an affordable family activity that promotes a sense of community, creates life-long memories and encourages Canadians and International visitors to discover Canada’s rich landscape and engage with nature. This year, Go RVing Canada and the Canadian Camping and RV Council are partnering with Make-A-Wish® Canada, with a stated goal of raising $20,000 to help wishes come true for children facing life-threatening medical conditions.
Campers can help by purchasing a $2 LED Wish lantern at participating Canadian campgrounds with all proceeds benefiting Make-A-Wish Canada. On Saturday, May 28th at 10 pm (local time), campers will gather, make their personal Wish, then build a garden to shine their light for Make-A-Wish Canada. Alternatively, campers can make a direct donation online.
About the Canadian RV and Campground Industry
The Canadian RV and Campground Industry make significant contributions to Canada’s economy. The camping sector contributes $4.7 billion to Canada’s GDP and creates 60,000 jobs in small communities across the country.
British Columbia has 570 campgrounds representing 38,669 campsites operated by the private sector, municipalities, Parks Canada, and BC Parks. In BC over 662,000 people camped in 2015 – 56% in tents, 9% in trailers, 6% in tent trailers, 9% in fifth wheels and 11% in Motorhomes and 9% in other lodging.
In BC, the camping industry contributes $606 million dollars to British Columbia’s GDP, collectively employs 7,524 people, while generating $137 million in sales and income tax.
Quotes:
“Camping is one of the best ways to get outside and to enjoy our Super, Natural British Columbia. People from around the world come here to experience the outdoors and take in our world-class scenery and campground facilities. Canadian RVing and Camping Week encourages British Columbians to keep our camping offerings top of mind as they plan for their summer vacations.” Shirley Bond, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour
“I am thrilled to see over 30 BC Campgrounds participating in Canadian RVing and Camping Week May 24th-29th, 2016 by offering campers the opportunity for discounted stays, organized fundraising events and building memories to cherish. As we kick-off the Canadian RV and Camping Season across Canada I encourage everyone to get outdoors and reserve your campsite to truly experience all of the tremendous features that this memorable week has to offer” Shane Devenish, President, Canadian Camping and RV Council
“We hope that Canadian RVing and Camping Week will encourage more families to take advantage of the fun and affordable vacation RVing has to offer. The RV lifestyle offers freedom and flexibility unlike other family holiday experiences and camping is a great way for families to unwind, re-connect with each other and explore the great outdoors.” Chris Mahony, Executive Director, Go RVing Canada
“I am pleased to join the Canadian Camping and RV Council and Go RVing Canada to promote the second annual Canadian RVing and Camping Week. Camping is an important way of life for Canadians to connect with family and friends while enjoying some of the most beautiful landscapes that Canada’s environment has to offer. I encourage people to celebrate the camping and RVing lifestyle!” Joss Penny, Chair, Camping and RVing BC Coalition
About the Camping and RVing British Columbia Coalition
The Camping and RVing BC Coalition was formed in 2008 with the support of Destination British Columbia to better position the provincial camping and RVing experience and to capitalize on the growth of nature-based tourism. Coalition members currently include BC Parks, BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association, Recreation Sites and Trails BC, RV Rental Association of Canada, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, the BC Society of Parks Facility Operators, Parks Canada, Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association of British Columbia and the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.
Media Contact
Joss Penny
Chair, Camping and RVing BC Coalition
778-383-1036
