ABERDEEN, S.D.(Aberdeen American News)- The beginning of a new year means it’s time for 2022 camping reservations at Wylie Park, but, unlike past years when reservations could be made for the entire summer, only May camping dates will be available starting today.

Dawn Thorstenson, concession manager for the Aberdeen Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department said 2022 marks the beginning of a new process adopted by the parks department where camping spots will be available for reservations four months in advance.

Here’s what that schedule looks like moving forward:

• June reservations open Feb. 7.
• July reservations open March 7.
• August reservations open April 4.
• September reservations open May 2.

“I’m excited to see how it’s going to play out,” Thorstenson said noting the process is similar to the reservation policy used in the state parks.

While year-end statistics aren’t yet available, Thorstenson said reservations for city camping spots were up this year, along with other activities like Storybook Land and the Aquatics Center. She expects that to continue in 2022.

Camping reservations can be made by stopping by the city parks office, calling 605-626-3512 or visiting aberdeen.sd.us/276/Wylie-Park-Campground.

Reservations also open today for winter and spring activities through the parks and recreation department. For other activity reservations call 605-62-7015 or go to webtracaberdeensd.us/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/SPLASH.html?interfaceparameter=WebTrac_1