Hey, fellow campers! With the long weekend just around the corner, British Columbia Parks is stepping up its game to ensure fair access to campsites and crack down on scalpers.
Facebook Marketplace
Guess what? Someone recently tried to sell two campsite reservations at Golden Ears Provincial Park’s North Beach on Facebook Marketplace. Can you believe it? They were asking $83 each and even offered to check the buyers in. Thankfully, a Reddit user caught wind of this shady deal and reported it. Seems like this isn’t the first time someone has tried to pull off something like this. Some people just never learn!
Scams
According to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, BC Parks is on high alert for scams and any attempts to resell campsite reservations. They want to make it crystal clear that only the person named on a BC Parks reservation can actually use the campsite. So, if you can’t prove your identity when you arrive or during your stay, your reservation may be canceled on the spot without a refund. Ouch!
Now, don’t get too worried. Reselling reservations is actually pretty rare, and most campers play by the rules. But if someone is caught trying to pull off this scam, BC Parks means business. They’ll not only cancel the current reservation but also any future reservations associated with that person. Talk about consequences!
Use authorized sites or authorized travel agent
Here’s a pro tip from BC Parks: never buy campsites from random people online. It’s not authorized, and you could end up with a canceled reservation. Stick to the official BC Parks website or use an authorized travel agent who can provide a valid park use permit. Safety first, folks!
Not unique
Believe it or not, this isn’t the first time BC Parks has dealt with these kinds of issues. Just a few months ago, someone tried to sell a reservation for Alice Lake Provincial Park on Facebook Marketplace for a measly $40. And there was another attempt to resell a reservation at Porteau Cove Park. BC Parks wasted no time and canceled the reservations of those involved. They don’t mess around!
So, fellow campers, let’s stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities. We all deserve a fair shot at enjoying the great outdoors. Have you ever encountered a camping scam? Share your stories in the comments below!
