The closure of Ontario’s parks and conservation reserves has been extended until at least May 31, the provincial government announced Saturday.

The government had announced March 19 that the parks would be closed to the end of April before tacking on another month in a statement from Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Christine Elliott and Jeff Yurek, the minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.

“We understand this extension may impact many Ontarians’ plans during the month of May. However, the health and well-being of Ontarians is our government’s number one priority,” the statement read.

“Although we are making progress to stop the spread, the virus has not yet been contained. As a result, all but essential service workers must continue to stay at home and practice physical distancing.”

Anyone who has a camping reservation in May will receive a refund, and those who wish to cancel any reservations after May 31 can also get a refund without penalty.

Correction - May 13, 2020: This article was edited from a previous version that mistakenly referred to the extended closure of conservation areas. In fact, conservation reserves will remain closed.