As recovery efforts continue in Jasper, Alberta, Parks Canada is working hard to welcome campers back to the national park.

From January, it will be possible to reserve campsites online for the 2025 season.

“The considerable efforts made by Parks Canada, stakeholders and entrepreneurs on the ground are important,” said Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, in a press release on Thursday. .

“Ensuring most Parks Canada locations are ready for summer 2025 is key to the recovery of Jasper National Park,” said Boissonault.

The main campgrounds including Whistlers, Miette as well as several self-registration sites will be open. The Wapiti campground will also reopen at reduced capacity.

The entrance to Wapiti Campground in Jasper National Park, November 14, 2024. (Jeremy Thompson, CTV News Edmonton)

The Wabasso and Whirlpool group campgrounds still require ongoing restoration work and will remain closed.

Backcountry campsites may be reserved through the park’s reservation system.

Before opening areas of the park affected by the wildfire, officials first review any potential risks to public safety and ecological recovery needs.

Some trailheads, like Astoria and Wabasso Lake, are still undergoing safety assessments.

Jasper is the second most visited national park in the country with 2.4 million visitors each year.

“During the upcoming season, visitors will be able to experience Jasper’s continued recovery and natural beauty while supporting the local economy and the park’s restoration efforts,” Boissonnault said.

But many businesses in the townsite have yet to reopen, and that’s why the federal government is offering financial assistance.

On Thursday, more than $3.9 million in funding was announced to help businesses recover from the wildfire.

“From mountain guides to hospitality providers and more, small businesses are essential to Jasper’s future. Today’s announcement will provide needed relief and support to hundreds of residents and businesses as they welcome visitors back to Jasper, said Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada.

The majority of the funding, $3.45 million, is earmarked for the Jasper Business Recovery Program.

It will provide non-repayable funding to businesses in the Town of Jasper or Jasper National Park with 50 or fewer employees.

Whistlers Campground in Jasper National Park, photographed on November 14, 2024. (Jeremy Thompson/CTV News Edmonton)

Sole proprietors in the construction, tourism or events sectors will be eligible for up to $5,000, while incorporated businesses can get up to $10,000.

“This support is critical to our recovery, recognizing that the economic revitalization of our local businesses is essential to the overall healing of our community,” said Jasper Mayor Richard Ireland.

“Helping small businesses get back on their feet is the quickest way to get Jasper’s tourism sector back on its feet,” Boissonnault said.

“This will help 325 businesses get the funding they need to reopen, support 500 good tourism jobs and allow the city to reopen to tourists and residents,” he added.

Anyone considering a trip to Jasper is encouraged to plan ahead. Jasper National Park has a interactive map which includes real-time updates on open sites and facilities.