Great news for those looking to get into the great outdoors this summer as the Alberta government is increasing capacity at provincial campgrounds.

The province is lifting the 50 per cent capacity rule for those campgrounds and officials say all campsites will be open by Canada Day (Wednesday, July 1).

The province allowed campers to return to provincial sites starting on June first, but capacity has been limited leading many to turn to backcountry camping on crown land.

The stage two relaunch comes as the province sees relatively stable numbers of COVID-19 cases. Premier Jason Kenney said he realizes there are likely some Albertans who have become frustrated with the restrictions and phased return of services.

“The point wasn’t to indefinitely shut down everything we do in society,” he said. “Now we can proceed with caution, but also optimism.”