Why not Smiley's

While most provincial parks throughout Nova Scotia open the Victoria Day weekend, Smiley’s does not. Why? With gas prices spiking to an all time high, along with increasing interest in “buy local” campaigns, one has to wonder why we are not doing more to promote our treasures here at home.

Smiley’s Park, is a jewel in the crown of provincial parks, attendance at Smiley’s has increased at a rate that is one of the highest in the province. Smiley’s location in a protected river valley offers a warmer median temperature during of the shoulder seasons. Its proximity to metro offers convenient access to over 40 percent of Nova Scotia’s population. Also, in recent years, our premium camping weather has stretched into the fall season, combined with an increasing number of retirees who prefer autumn camping makes an extended season a logical option.

In recent years, there has been an implementation of a longer season for selected parks.

Unfortunately, Smiley’s has not made that list -- the reason, budget constraints. My question again is why not Smiley’s? What criteria were used to cherry pick those that open early and those that do not. What do we know? People are creatures of habit while waiting for the park to open they will go elsewhere. Will they come back? Perhaps, perhaps not.

Let’s set aside the fact that this great resource that is not being used. The economic spin off to the Windsor – West Hants area is substantial. The park offers meaningful employment, promotes local events and attractions, brings consumer dollars to be spent in the area and is a destination point hosting a variety of special events such as Canada Day celebrations, Smiley’s Fun Day, and the Outdoor Astronomy Star Party Convention.

So, why not Smiley’s? Just ask those campers who are travelling outside the boundaries of West Hants for the next month, and while you’re at it, please ask them to come back!

Paula Lunn