‘Needs time to regenerate’: Scenic Gem Lakes campgrounds closed for season due to wildfires

(Source: FACEBOOK/ Jess Begin)

SaskParks says the Gem Lakes and Lost Echo campgrounds are officially closed for the 2025 season due to wildfires near Narrow Hills Provincial Park.

The Gem Lakes, a popular area for camping and hiking in Narrow Hills Provincial Park, have burned in the “Shoe” fire.

“There was significant damage from the fire and we ask that people avoid the area,” SaskParks said in an update on social media. “Burned trees pose a safety risk, and the forest needs time to regenerate. Limiting human impact will help accelerate its recovery.”

The Gem Lakes are an iconic destination within Narrow Hills, visited by thousands of people each year.

“Anyone with a camping reservation at Lost Echo or Gem Lakes campgrounds this summer will be contacted with the option to re-book their vacation in another park without any additional fees or get a refund,” officials added.

“Visitors with a reservation in May at other Narrow Hills campgrounds have also been contacted and have this same option.”

The Shoe fire was reported on May 7 and has now spanned 14,500 hectares — or 145 kilometres squared, more than double the size of Prince Albert — according to the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA).

The SPSA said it’s doing everything it can contain the fire.

As of Tuesday evening, there were eight active fires in Saskatchewan – three of which were not contained.

-With files from Stacey Hein.