Parks Canada, the national Canadian parks service, has confirmed that it will allow the consumption of cannabis in campsites, according to the CBC.
“While Parks Canada campgrounds are public areas, the agency treats individual campsites as temporary domiciles for our visitors. For this reason, at Parks Canada campgrounds, consumption of cannabis will be permitted in campsites.” –Marie-Hélène Brisson, spokesperson for Parks Canada, via the CBC
Additionally, hikers will be able to consume cannabis on hiking trails in some provinces, including British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories. Cannabis will be prohibited in common areas, however. Ultimately, visitors should be aware of specific provincial laws, as cannabis rules will differ depending on the province.
Parks Canada said it will treat cannabis just like alcohol for purposes of enforcement. Marie-Hélène Brisson said that Parks Canada may still have, just like for alcohol, “specific prohibitions on consumption in specific campgrounds or at specific times of year,” for operational concerns or to maintain a positive visitor experience.
Brisson also reminded users to be cautious when consuming in the wilderness to prevent incidents or injury. A B.C. Search and Rescue team issued a similar warning to wilderness enthusiasts earlier this year.
Cannabis becomes federally legal in Canada tomorrow, October 17, 2018.