Changes to Backcountry Camping at Kejimkujik National Park

Backcountry campers at Kejimkujik National Park and Historic Site will need to make some adjustments this summer if they want to enjoy a campfire during their stay. Previously, Parks Canada provided a free unlimited supply of firewood for backcountry sites at the national park in southwest Nova Scotia. However, a recent online statement from the federal agency announced that campers will now be required to purchase and transport their own wood.

The decision to eliminate the provision of free firewood is aimed at encouraging responsible wood use, reducing the risk of wildfires, and allocating resources more effectively. Parks Canada stated that the shift in focus will allow for better maintenance and repair of trails and infrastructure, which were identified as key priorities by visitors during management planning consultations.

Campers are advised to rely on appliances such as gas or propane stoves for cooking, as there may be fire bans in effect. When restrictions are not in place, backcountry campers will have the option to purchase firewood at the park’s visitor centre and campground kiosk.

To protect against invasive forest pests, visitors are not permitted to bring wood or lumber into the park, nor are they allowed to gather wood or debris within its boundaries. However, campers can bring heat-treated firewood, fibre logs, or processed fire bricks in their original sealed packaging.

Reactions from Campers

Opinions among backcountry campers at Kejimkujik are divided regarding the new policy. Some, like Jason Warham from Halifax, feel that it is another blow to the backcountry camping experience at the park, citing previous changes such as the elimination of winter camping and the removal of yurts. Warham believes that Parks Canada could have increased backcountry camping fees to cover the cost of transporting wood to sites.

On the other hand, Sky Barkhouse from Mahone Bay, N.S., is looking forward to packing wood for a portage trip with friends this summer. While acknowledging the benefits of campfires for socializing, Barkhouse recognizes the importance of conservation and respects the decision to prioritize environmental protection over camping amenities.

Parks Canada suggests alternative activities such as stargazing, storytelling, card games, art, and reading as substitutes for campfires during backcountry stays.

Comparison with Other Parks

While many national parks and wilderness areas have prohibited backcountry fires altogether, the approach at Kejimkujik aims to preserve the tradition of campfires while considering environmental and operational factors. In contrast, Cape Breton Highlands National Park and Cape Chignecto Provincial Park do not allow backcountry campfires at all.

In Atlantic Canada, New Brunswick’s Fundy National Park provides free firewood for backcountry campers due to the relatively short distance to backcountry sites. The unique size of the Kejimkujik backcountry, with 45 campsites spread over several hundred square kilometers, presents a challenge in terms of resource management and conservation.

Overall, the changes to backcountry camping at Kejimkujik National Park reflect a balanced approach to preserving the camping experience while prioritizing environmental sustainability and resource allocation.