Canadians Opt for Domestic Camping Amid US Trade War Tensions

As the unofficial start of summer looms, many outdoorsy Canadians are shifting their focus to domestic camping, fuelled by the ongoing US trade war and US President Donald Trump's comments on making Canada a 51st state. Citizens like Sally Turner, who plan to camp in Canadian national parks this weekend, are choosing to stay within the country due to concerns about the trade war's impact on their vacations.

Key Takeaways:

• Canadians are opting for domestic camping, driven by concerns about the US trade war and its potential impact on their vacations.
• The Canadian Camping Association has reported a decrease in children being enrolled in summer camps this year due to economic uncertainty created by the tariff war.
• More parents are inquiring about refund policies and payment plans at camps, while an increasing number of camps are struggling with unpredictable budgets.
• Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's office has not responded to questions about the status of the "Canada Strong Pass" pledge, which would have made access to national parks free for the summer.
• Alberta Parks has seen a 25% increase in bookings through its camping reservation system for March and April compared to the previous year.
• Ontario Parks reports that around 90% of its visitors come from within the province.

Statistics:

• 25% increase in bookings through Alberta Parks' camping reservation system for March and April compared to the previous year.
• Around 12 million visitors expected at Ontario Parks.
• 90% of Ontario Parks' visitors come from within the province.

Sources:

• The Canadian Press, "Canadians opt for domestic camping amid US trade war tensions"
• The Canadian Camping Association's executive director, Matt Wilfrid
• Alberta Parks' press release on increased bookings
• Ontario Parks' spokesman, Dave Hunt
• Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's office statement on the "Canada Strong Pass" pledge