It’s the official opening of camping and recreational use at Grand River parks on April 30, 2016.

The Grand River Conservation Authority operates 11 parks throughout the Grand River watershed.

There are 2,500 campsites, all of which will be open on Saturday.

Byng Island (Dunnville), Brant (Brantford), Pinehurst (Paris), Laurel Creek (Waterloo), Conestogo (Drayton), Guelph Lake and Elora Gorge will be opening.

Belwood Lake, Rockwood and Shade’s Mills (Cambridge) were already open for use, but services like canoe rentals had not previously been available this year.

Elora Quarry will open once the typical swimming season starts in mid-June.

Getting the parks ready for opening has been a round the clock job for staff. They had to clear away damage caused by the ice storm that took place in late March.

The ice storm affected most parks under the Conservation Authority. Although much of the damage is clear, there are still some parts of the parks that visitors are being asked to stay away from for safety reasons. Luther Marsh is closed due to forestry work.

People are asked to check which park they are visiting to find out about alcohol bans that may be in effect or visit www.grandriver.ca/parks.