Nova Scotians and tourists will find it easier to visit Cape Split, now that a new parking lot has opened.

In the past, visitors had to park on the side of the highway before exploring the Crown lands around Cape Split. The new parking lot will make visits safer.

"Cape Split, and the nearby Blomidon and Scots Bay provincial parks are very popular with visitors from across the province and around the world," said MLA Jim Morton, on behalf of Natural Resources Minister Charlie Parker. "We're improving that experience with the new lot at Cape Split."

New compostable toilets will also be open soon.

"The Cape Split trail is a scenic landmark here in Kings County. We are proud to be part of making Cape Split a safer and more attractive destination for our residents and travelers," said County of Kings Warden Diana Brothers.

The province is looking at how to improve the trail system around Cape Split while maintaining the natural beauty of the area. The long-term goal is to provide visitors with a better understanding of the significance of tides, geology and Aboriginal culture in the region, on both sides of the Fundy Shore and Annapolis Valley.

Overnight camping at Blomidon Provincial Park can be reserved by calling 1-888-544-3434 between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m., seven days a week, or online at www.novascotiaparks.ca .