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New managers taking over at Lion's Campground

The date is still unknown, but when Red Deer Lions Campground opens this spring it will be under new management.

The date is still unknown, but when Red Deer Lions Campground opens this spring it will be under new management.

The City of Red Deer has awarded the contract for operation of the 4723 Riverside Dr. recreational facility to Chris Demers and Craig Masley. The two men developed the Westerner Campground in 2002 and have managed it since.

Deb Comfort, Red Deer’s neighbourhood facilities and community development supervisor, said Demers and Masley were chosen following an open tender process.

The city took over operation of the campground from the previous contractor last fall, citing contract violations.

Comfort said Demers and Masley submitted a strong bid.

They are also experienced operators and have a long-term vision for the campground, she added.

“We’re feeling pretty confident that this is going to be a great partnership.”

Demers said he and Masley plan to make improvements to Lions Campground, with bigger sites, improved power and new amenities among the possibilities.

But they don’t want to rush into changes.

“We have to get in and get a feel for this park.”

There’s no telling when that could happen, even though the campground is scheduled to open on May 1. That’s because it’s serviced by shallow water lines that are susceptible to cold weather.

“Mother Nature will tell us when we can turn the water on,” said Demers.

The rate for a full hook-up this year will be $34 per day and $220 for a week.

Power-only connections for tents and small units will be $24 a day and $158 a week.

Lions Campground has 126 full-service and semi-serviced sites, showers, washrooms, laundry facilities, horseshoe pits, playgrounds and an amphitheatre.

Additional information, including the booking process, can be found online at www.reddeerlionscampground.com.