Environment Minister Nils Clarke traded his office surroundings for a campground environment last Friday.

“I had the pleasure of celebrating the addition of 41 sites at Congdon Creek Campground, reflecting our government’s commitment to increasing camping opportunities for Yukoners and visitors alike,” he said in a statement.

“This expansion makes Congdon Creek Campground the largest campground in the territory, in one of the most beautiful spots in the Yukon — along the coast of the stunning Kluane Lake also known in Southern Tutchone as Łù'àn Män.

“It was great connecting with campers and visitors while enjoying a free public barbecue, fun games and a free raffle,” Clarke added.

“It was also great to see the new playground equipment, which helps enhance the camping experience and ensures everyone has a fun and enjoyable time.”

The government maintains 42 campgrounds with more than 1,000 campsites, 12 recreation sites and eight territorial parks, the minister pointed out.

“This year alone, we are investing approximately $1.1 million to implement the Yukon Parks Strategy that will continue to enhance our campgrounds and parks infrastructure, improve visitor experiences and look at greening park operations,” Clarke added.

“I look forward to continuing to see the Yukon’s campground network expand and provide some of the best camping experiences in Canada for both Yukoners and visitors for years to come.”

The government had previously mused about developing a large new campground at an unspecified location within a two-hour drive of Whitehorse.

It subsequently indicated it’s concentrating on making expansions and improvements to the existing campground network.