Seasonal Camping Guide

Transcription

1 Seasonal Camping Guide 1 Seasonal Camping Guide 2019 Rules and Regulations This guide has been prepared in accordance with the GRCA Seasonal Camping Policy

2 Seasonal Camping Guide 2 Welcome to Seasonal Camping at Grand River Parks The Grand River watershed is full of incredible beauty with diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. To fully appreciate it you really need to make time to explore all the watershed has to offer. Seasonal camping at a Grand River conservation area is a tremendous way to do that. Once experienced, we hope you ll return again and again. Explore our 11 conservation areas 7 of which offer seasonal camping, and provide many opportunities to connect with the great outdoors. Nature Next Door Grand River Parks CONTENTS Welcome to Seasonal Camping at Grand River Parks 2 Campsite Reservations, Fees and Off-Season Storage 5 Conservation Authorities Act 5 Residency / Eligibility 5 Campsite Reservations 5 Current Seasonal Camper 5 New Seasonal Camper Lottery Application 6 Permit Fees 6 Camping Pass 6 Second Vehicle Pass 7 Off-Season Storage 7 Campground Etiquette 7 Quiet Time 7 Camper Behaviour 8 Guests 8

3 Seasonal Camping Guide 3 Alcohol / Cannabis 8 Domestic Animals 9 Generators 9 Permitted Equipment & Structures 9 Camping Units 9 Decks & Patios 10 Add-a-Room 10 Sheds 10 Appliances 10 Campground Environment 11 Campsite Maintenance 11 Wastewater Disposal 11 Water & Hydro Services 11 Garbage Disposal 11 Trees & Vegetation 12 Fires & Firewood 12 Contractors 12 Vehicles 13 Personal Vehicles 13 Boat & Utility Trailers 13 ATV s, Golf Carts & E-bikes 13 Sale of Camping Units Seasonal Camping Fees (Schedule 1) 15 Late Payments 16 Camping Equipment & Structures Permission Form 17

4 Seasonal Camping Guide 4 Typical Seasonal Campsite Layout 17

5 Seasonal Camping Guide 5 Campsite Reservations, Fees and Off- Season Storage Seasonal campsites are intended for use by the permit holder and immediate family generally defined as parent(s), their children and grandparents or similar, and immediate relatives who reside in the same household. Seasonal camping permits grant the right to occupy a specified campsite for the period listed on the permit. Our seasonal camping season is from May 1 to October 15. The GRCA reserves the right to designate which sites will be made available for seasonal camping as well as the right to request a seasonal campsite permit holder to relocate to another site when deemed necessary by the conservation area (CA) Superintendent. The GRCA may also deny a seasonal site holder access to their site in the case of flooding or other emergency situations. Your seasonal camping fee covers the term of your seasonal camping permit. The start and end dates are referred to as units-on and units-off dates. If your camping unit is on-site without a valid permit before or after the term of seasonal camping permit: The camping unit will be towed at your expense You will be charged for occupying CA land without a valid permit You will be charged nightly camping fees for each night the camping unit occupies the site Conservation Authorities Act Seasonal campers should be aware that conservation area entry is permitted only for activities conducted in accordance with the licence agreement, and the regulations made under the Conservation Authorities Act of Ontario. All other activities are prohibited in accordance with the provisions of the Trespass to Property Act. Residency / Eligibility All seasonal campers must provide proof of a separate, permanent Canadian residence. Applicants must be able to produce valid photo ID showing the address of the permanent residence (e.g. Driver s licence, Ontario Photo Card). Campsite Reservations Current Seasonal Camper Seasonal campers are permitted to reserve their current campsite for the next camping season. This must be arranged with the CA Superintendent and secured with a $ deposit due no later than 12:00 p.m. EST on October 1. Reservations will not be accepted if fees are

6 Seasonal Camping Guide 6 outstanding or if the camper is not otherwise in good standing with the CA. If reservation arrangements have not been completed the site will be made available to other campers. A lottery for vacant sites will be held in the fall of the current camping season at each CA; once it is determined which sites are available. By March 15 th, all seasonal campers must submit a completed Seasonal Campsite Licence Application form and proof of insurance to the CA Superintendent. This must be received and approved before campers can occupy their site. If you would like to cancel your reservation for the upcoming season please notify the CA Superintendent. Notifications received by March 15 th will be eligible for a partial refund; refunds will not be granted after this date. New Seasonal Camper Lottery Application Vacant seasonal campsites will be assigned through a lottery. Interested applicants can apply by submitting a Seasonal Campsite Lottery Application and proof of insurance to the CA Superintendent of the conservation area at which you wish to camp. Approved applications will be entered into the lottery and successful applicants will be assigned a site in order of preference indicated on their application. Permit Fees Fees for individual seasonal campsites vary based on the amenities available within each CA. These fees are set each fall by the General Membership of Grand River Conservation Authority. The fees for the 2019 camping season can be found in Schedule 1. Payment for seasonal campsites is due in full upon occupancy of the site or May 15; whichever date comes first. Missing this deadline without notifying the CA Superintendent will result in cancellation of the campsite reservation. If an extension is granted a $ late fee will be applied. Failure to pay fees by May 30 will result in cancellation of the campsite reservation. Seasonal camping permits are neither transferrable, nor refundable. Renting, subletting or assigning camping units, camping privileges or campsites is not permitted. No refunds will be issued when ground conditions, capital improvements or other reasons beyond the control of the GRCA prevent occupancy of the campsite between May 1 and May 15. Camping Pass Seasonal campers will receive a pass card that provides access to the CA once full payment of seasonal camping fees is received. The pass entitles the holder to enter all GRCA conservation areas with a maximum of six (6) people in a car. The pass will operate automatic gates, if applicable, at the home park only. At other conservation areas the pass must be presented to gate staff. The pass expires at the end of the camping season as shown in the licence agreement.

7 Seasonal Camping Guide 7 Second Vehicle Pass Campers who wish to have a second vehicle registered to the campsite must purchase a Second Vehicle Pass. This pass will only provide access to the conservation area in which the seasonal camper is a permit holder. Second Vehicle Passes can be purchased through the gatehouse. Off-Season Storage Off-season storage may be available within the conservation area in an area designated by the CA Superintendent. All storage items must be approved by the CA Superintendent by written agreement. Payment of the off-season storage fee is required by October 1. An additional late fee of $25.00 per month will be added to storage fees remitted after this date. Off season storage fees are included in the attached schedule. All camping units must be removed from the campsite at the end of the camping season. Sheds and decks may be permitted to remain on the site at the discretion of the CA Superintendent. The GRCA may require all structures and equipment to be removed to facilitate campsite maintenance. On-site storage of camping units is not permitted except where specifically authorized by the GRCA due to site conditions or for other reasons that would make removal of the camping unit impractical. The presence of structures or equipment added by the seasonal camper is not considered valid reasoning for on-site storage of camping units. No camping units, structures or equipment will be permitted to remain on campsites in areas that are prone to flooding or high water. Where off-season storage is permitted on the campsite, only one camping unit and one shed will be permitted. Camping units may not be used for accommodation during this period. All utilities to the campsite will be disconnected as of October 16. Seasonal campers wishing to access their camping unit during the storage period must make arrangements with the CA Superintendent. Campground Etiquette Quiet Time Please observe the campground quiet time between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m.. Loud music or other noise is not permitted during this time. Indoor radios, televisions and other entertainment equipment must not be heard outside of the camping unit or negatively affect other campers.

8 Seasonal Camping Guide 8 Camper Behaviour Permit holders must ensure that all individuals occupying the site do not interfere with quiet, peaceful use and enjoyment of conservation authority lands by other campers and CA visitors. Excessive noise or disturbance is not permitted at any time. This includes fighting, yelling, playing loud music, using insulting or obscene language, intoxication and damaging property. No detachable, external amplified speakers are allowed. Not complying with the rules may result in enforcement actions by CA staff or local Police. In addition to charges that could be laid under the law, you may also be evicted from any and all GRCA properties for a period of up to 5 (five) years. Seasonal campers who are evicted from their sites, for any reason, will not be refunded any portion of their camping fee. Campers are expected to treat all conservation area personnel with respect. Verbal/physical abuse or threating behaviour toward GRCA staff will not be tolerated and may result in immediate eviction from the campground. Guests Guests to the seasonal campsite must pay applicable conservation area admission fees or have a valid GRCA Membership Pass. A maximum of six (6) people are allowed to camp overnight on the campsite. The permit holder is responsible for the behaviour of their guests and will be held accountable for any infringement of campground rules by guests. Campground visitors are permitted between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. daily. No new visitors will be admitted after 9 p.m.. Campground hours may be restricted as necessary. Alcohol / Cannabis The consumption of alcohol /cannabis is permitted on your campsite only. During specific time periods a total alcohol/cannabis ban may be in effect prohibiting the possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages and/or cannabis for that period. The following alcohol/cannabis bans are in place: Elora Gorge Conservation Area - a total alcohol/ cannabis ban is in effect throughout the entire season Byng Island Conservation Area Victoria Day long weekend through to the third Sunday in June inclusive Laurel Creek Conservation Area May 1 until the third Sunday in June inclusive All conservation areas Victoria Day and Labour Day long weekends Anyone in possession of or consuming alcohol/cannabis during these time periods will be evicted from the CA. Seasonal campers and their guests will be evicted for a period of 3 days on the first offence. A second offence will result in a permanent eviction from the CA. Please note all swimming areas, beaches and playgrounds are smoke-free.

9 Seasonal Camping Guide 9 Domestic Animals No more than two (2) pets are allowed on a campsite. Pet owners must comply with local animal control bylaws (i.e. dogs must be licensed). All pets must be on leashes with a maximum length of 2 metres at all times. Pets are not allowed in washrooms, on beaches or in swimming areas. Owners must clean up after their pets. No pets shall be left unattended or be allowed to disturb other campers. Any aggressive or inappropriate behaviour by any pet will result in immediate removal of the pet from the conservation area. Generators Generators may not be used at any time without the written permission of the CA Superintendent. Permission will only be granted for medical reasons or other exceptional circumstances. Continuous or prolonged generator use during the day can disturb neighbours and is not permitted. Permitted Equipment & Structures A maximum of three (3) structures are permitted on a campsite. These structures can include a camping unit(s), dining shelter and/or shed. No permanent structures are permitted. All additional equipment, not considered part of the manufactured camping unit (e.g. awning or add-a-room) must remain portable. Addition of equipment or structures to the campsite must only be done through the completion of a Seasonal Campsite Modification form and written approval of the conservation area Superintendent. Due to liability and safety concerns portable playgrounds and wading pools are not allowed. Camping Units Camping units permitted in GRCA seasonal campgrounds include tents, tent-trailers, campertrucks, camping trailers, fifth wheel trailers and motor homes. No park model trailers are permitted. Trailer size is limited to 12.2 metres (40 feet) long by 2.6 metres (8.5 feet) wide (based on manufacturers specifications and excluding slide outs) as site parameters may permit. Prospective seasonal campers are encouraged to confirm the availability of sites that could accommodate your camping unit prior to applying. The trailer hitch assembly must face the roadway, when possible, and be accessible at all times. All camping units (except tents) must be registered and display a valid motor vehicle licence. Only one camping unit with wheels is permitted on a campsite (i.e. trailer, camper or mobile home). A tent is permitted as a second sleeping accommodation where the maximum number of structures is not exceeded.

10 Seasonal Camping Guide 10 Decks & Patios One (1) deck or patio is permitted, with a height of 60 centimeters or less, on each campsite. The deck, patio or combination of deck and patio must have a maximum site coverage of m 2 (200 ft 2 ) and be no more than 2.44 metres (8 feet) wide. The deck or patio must fit within the site and not encroach on green buffer spaces or other sites. These structures must be made of wood, patio stones or carpet and be aesthetically pleasing. Decks may not exceed the body length of the trailer and may not protrude past the front or rear wall of the trailer. Decks must be removable by hand (sectioned), affixed at ground level and may not be physically attached to the camping unit. No cement posts are allowed. Awnings attached to the camping unit must be manufactured by a trailer/ RV service provider. Awnings may not extend beyond the end of the trailer. Add-a-Room Add-a-room structures must be made of canvas or vinyl with screening material commonly sold with trailers or specifically manufactured to be attached to trailers or recreational vehicles. No wooden or metal additions to the camping unit will be permitted. The add-a-room must not exceed m 2 (200 ft 2 ) in area and no more than 2.44 metres (8 ft) in width. In no case will a combination of add-a-room and deck/patio exceed m 2 (200 ft 2 ) or 2.44 metres (8 ft) in width. Sheds One (1) storage shed is permitted on each site with a maximum size of 60 ft 2. Sheds must be free standing and in a material agreed upon by the CA Superintendent. Electricity is not permitted inside the shed. All sheds and their location must be approved by the CA Superintendent through the issuance of an Equipment and Structures Permit prior to installation. Appliances Refrigerators or any other electrical appliance (e.g. washer, dryer, etc.) may not be kept in a shed. A limit of one (1) refrigerator outside of the camping unit is permitted. The outdoor refrigerator must be stored and used in a safe manner, on an elevated, level surface and protected from the elements. The refrigerator must be plugged directly into the trailer. The use of extension cords is prohibited. The refrigerator must be compact and restricted to a height of 90 centimetres (36 inches), a width of 60 centimetres (24 inches) and a maximum capacity of cubic centimetres (4.5 cubic feet). All outdoor refrigerators are subject to the approval of the CA Superintendent.

11 Seasonal Camping Guide 11 Campground Environment Campsite Maintenance Campsites must be kept neat and clean at all times and comply with the standards established by the CA Superintendent. No alterations to the campsite (e.g. fencing) will be done without the Superintendent s approval. Campers are responsible for grass cutting on their site. The planting of gardens and other landscaping is discouraged to avoid the potential for introducing nonnative species or invasive species into the natural environment. The use of pesticides and herbicides are prohibited as per GRCA policy. Equipment or structures that are in poor condition, deemed to be unsafe or unsightly must be removed from the site at the direction of the CA Superintendent. The CA Superintendent has the sole discretion in determining the acceptable standard. Wastewater Disposal No sewage or grey water of any kind may be dumped from the trailer in any place except the sewage dumping station. Trailers on campsites equipped with permanent sanitary sewer services provided by the GRCA are required to maintain a secure connection to the on-site hookup. Alterations to GRCA sewer or water services, including tampering with back flow prevention mechanisms, are prohibited. Where sanitary services are provided to the campsite, campers are strongly encouraged to avoid flushing disposable wipes into the system. These products can cause blockages in the pipe system, clogging of pumps and filters and failure of the sanitary system. Please dispose of wipes in the regular garbage disposal. Water & Hydro Services Due to the authority s desire to reduce water consumption whenever possible, lawn watering and vehicle washing are not permitted. To conserve electricity usage campers are encouraged to reduce their electricity use wherever possible (e.g. turn off air conditioners when not in use). All electrical power cords, hardware and connections to the on-site service panel must be done in accordance with the Electrical Safety Code and will be subject to inspection by the Electrical Safety Authority. Failure to meet this requirement will result in the disconnection of power to the camping unit. Garbage Disposal Garbage must be bagged and deposited in the waste bins provided. Yard waste such as leaves, branches and grass clippings must not be discarded into rivers or lakes. This material must be

12 Seasonal Camping Guide 12 composted whenever possible, either on the campsite at a location provided within the CA, or disposed of with regular garbage disposal. Furniture, appliances, construction material and hazardous items must not be disposed of anywhere within the conservation area. Discarding these items into or beside waste bins is prohibited. Trees & Vegetation Please do not strip bark, use nails or attached wires to trees or shrubs. Damaged trees are more likely to be affected by fungus or disease. Ropes around trees are permitted, but must be removed at the end of the season. Lights and decorations are not permitted to be affixed to trees. Trees are permitted to be planted but species type, size and location must receive written permission from the CA Superintendent. Once trees are planted they become the property of the GRCA and must remain on the specific site. Seasonal campers are not permitted to prune or trim trees without the approval of the CA Superintendent. Seasonal campers should be aware that trees may be impacted by a variety of pests and diseases (e.g. Emerald Ash Borer) which can weaken the tree structure. While the GRCA maintains an inspection program for tree hazards on all campsites, campers are encouraged to be aware of overhead hazards and report any trees that they feel may be hazardous to CA Staff. Fires & Firewood Gathering of firewood from GRCA property is prohibited. Unsightly wood piles or wood cutting on site is not allowed. Wood pallets or skids may not be used as firewood. The use of chainsaws is not permitted. Firewood brought in from another area may harbour pests and carry disease that will destroy forests. Buy firewood locally and burn it locally. The GRCA has firewood available for purchase that has been harvested through good forestry practices. Fires must be contained within an approved fire pit and kept under control at all times. Fires must not be left unattended. Ensure campfires are extinguished before you retire for the night or leave the site. Dispose of matches and cigarettes in the fire pit. In the event of a fire ban, all site occupants are expected to comply with the order of the Fire Chief or Fire Marshall. Failure to do so could result in fines levied by the issuing authority and/or your eviction from the conservation area. Contractors You must register any outside contractors that will be working on your campsite or your camping unit with the gatehouse at least 24 hours prior to their arrival at the site. The gatehouse must be

13 Seasonal Camping Guide 13 provided with the name of the company, a brief description of the work being performed and the expected date/time of arrival at the conservation area. Prior to being granted entry to the conservation area, the contractor will be required to provide the CA Superintendent with proof of adequate liability insurance and WSIB coverage. Vehicles Personal Vehicles One personal vehicle is permitted per campsite unless otherwise specified by the CA Superintendent. Campers requesting permission for a second vehicle must register that vehicle and pay the applicable admission fees. Boat & Utility Trailers Boats or utility trailers may be left on the campsite at the discretion of the CA Superintendent. This approval will be subject to the ability of the individual campsite to accommodate the boat or utility trailer in addition to camping units and personal vehicles present. The impact of the boat or utility trailer on the campground amenities and on neighbouring campsites will also be considered. Where dedicated parking/storage areas are provided, campers will be directed to park boat and utility trailers in these areas. ATV s, Golf Carts & E-bikes ATV s and golf carts are not allowed in the campground or anywhere on GRCA property. E- bikes are permitted on conservation area roadways only. Use of e-bikes is prohibited on any conservation area trail system. All other power-assisted, low-speed vehicles are not permitted with the exception of assistive devices specifically designed to improve mobility.

14 Seasonal Camping Guide 14 Sale of Camping Units Seasonal campsites are not transferable without the express written approval of the CA Superintendent. If a camping unit is sold during the season, the campsite must be released to the GRCA. The purchaser of the camping unit must complete the Seasonal Campsite Lottery Licence Application, enter the lottery process to be held at the end of the season, and pay the applicable fees. The GRCA reserves the right to decide whether the new owners: May use the existing site depending on seasonal camping lottery program requirements May use an alternate site Must vacate the existing site and the campground If you are a prospective purchaser of a camping unit in a GRCA conservation area, you must complete a Seasonal Camping Licence Application and have it approved before you will be entitled to occupy a seasonal campsite. Prospective purchasers and sellers are strongly encouraged to speak to the CA Superintendent before finalizing their purchase in order to fully understand this procedure, and avoid disappointment.

15 Seasonal Camping Guide Seasonal Camping Fees (Schedule 1) (Note: Seasonal camping fees are modified each year and approved by the GRCA General Membership) Brant Park Conservation Area Seasonal Camping Rates Off Season Storage Rates Premium Non-serviced (Waterfront) $2, Premium Serviced (Hydro, Water & Sewage) $2, No Off Season Standard Non-serviced $1, Storage Available Standard Serviced (Hydro & Water) $2, Serviced (Water Only) $1, Byng Island Conservation Area Seasonal Camping Rates Off Season Storage Rates Premium Non-serviced (Waterfront) $2, Daily $6.75 Premium Serviced (Waterfront) $2, Monthly $70.00 Standard Non-serviced $1, Off Season $ Standard Serviced (Hydro & Water) Standard (Water Only) $2, $1, Conestogo Lake Conservation Area Seasonal Camping Rates Off Season Storage Rates Premium Non-serviced $1, No Off Season Standard Serviced (Hydro & Water) $2, Storage Available Elora Gorge Conservation Area Seasonal Camping Rates Off Season Storage Rates Daily $6.75 Standard Serviced (Hydro, Water & Sewage) $2, Monthly $70.00 Standard Serviced (Hydro & Water) $2, Off Season $200.00

16 Seasonal Camping Guide 16 Guelph Lake Conservation Area Seasonal Camping Rates Off Season Storage Rates Premium Non-serviced (Waterfront) $2, Daily $6.75 Standard Non-serviced $1, Monthly $70.00 Standard Serviced (Hydro & Water) $2, Off Season $ Laurel Creek Conservation Area Seasonal Camping Rates Off Season Storage Rates Premium Non-serviced $2, Daily $6.75 Standard Non-serviced $1, Monthly $70.00 Standard Serviced (Hydro & Water) $2, Off Season $ Pinehurst Lake Conservation Area Seasonal Camping Rates Off Season Storage Rates Standard Non-serviced $1, Daily $6.75 Standard Serviced (Hydro & Water) $2, Monthly $70.00 Off Season $ Late Payments Payment in full for a seasonal site is due by May 15. Missing this deadline will result in forfeiture of the site. If an extension is granted, a $ late payment fee will apply. Failure to comply with this date will result in forfeiture of the campsite. If you are unable to occupy your site this season, you must inform staff by March 15 to receive a partial refund of your deposit. No refund of campsite deposits will be considered after this date. Payment for off-season storage is due by October 1. Payment after this date will incur a $25.00 late fee per month.

17 Seasonal Camping Guide 17 Camping Equipment & Structures Permission Form Typical Seasonal Campsite Layout All applications for modifications to the campsite must be accompanied by a sketch showing the general location and dimensions of the structures and equipment on the site. The typical seasonal campsite layout shown below can be used as an example to illustrate the information required. *Sample site

18 Seasonal Camping Guide 18 This form should be completed whenever the seasonal camper wishes to make modifications to their site that involve the addition of structures or equipment. Site Number: Site Holder: Decks / Patios / Awnings One (1) deck and/or patio is permitted at ground level (i.e. no more than 2 feet above ground elevation). Dimensions: Length (ft.) Width (ft.) (max. 8 ft.) Area (sq. ft.) (max. 200 sq. ft.) Construction Material: Wood Patio Stones Carpet Awning: Yes No Add-a-Room Add-a-room structures must be made of canvas or vinyl and specifically manufactured to be attached to trailers or recreational vehicles. No wood or metal additions will be permitted. Dimensions: Length (ft) Width (ft) (max. 8 ft) Area (sq. ft.) (max. 200 sq. ft.) Note: Any combination of deck, patio and/or add-a-room must not exceed 200 sq. ft. Shed Shed must be free-standing, hard sided and lockable. No electricity is permitted in a shed. Must fit in the location specified. Dimensions: Length (ft) Width (ft) Area (sq. ft.) (max. 60 sq. ft.) Site Holder Name Signature Date Approved by: Signature Date

19 Seasonal Camping Guide 19 GRCA Seasonal Campground Information Number of Seasonal Campsites Conservation Area Contact Information No Services Water Only Hydro & Water Full Services Brant Park Address: 119 Jennings Road Brantford ON N3T 5L7 Telephone: (519) Park brantpark@grandriver.ca Superintendent: Brad Straus Byng Island Address: 4969 Haldimand Road 20 Dunnville ON N1A 2W8 Telephone: (905) Park byngislandpark@grandriver.ca Superintendent: John Johnston Conestogo Lake Address: 6580 Wellington County Rd 11 Wallenstein ON N0B 2S0 Telephone: (519) Park conestogolakepark@grandriver.ca Superintendent: Dean McFadden Elora Gorge Address: 7400 Wellington County Rd 21 Elora ON N0B 1S0 Telephone: (519) Park eloragorgepark@grandriver.ca Superintendent: Gary MacMillan

20 Seasonal Camping Guide 20 Guelph Lake Address: 7743 Conservation Drive RR4 Guelph ON N1H 6J1 Telephone: (519) Park guelphlakepark@grandriver.ca Superintendent: Brad Dixon Laurel Creek Address: 625 Westmount Road Waterloo ON N2J 3Z4 Telephone: (519) Park laurelcreekpark@grandriver.ca Superintendent: Chris Murray Pinehurst Lake Address: 468 Pinehurst Road RR3 Ayr ON N0B 1E0 Telephone: (519) Park pinehurstlakepark@grandriver.ca Superintendent: Ben Rosebrugh