Ongoing dry conditions could impact the upcoming camping season.

Manitoba campgrounds will start opening up for the summer this weekend, with all provincial parks set to be open by May Long Weekend.

Elisabeth Ostrup, Manager of Recreation and Education Services with Manitoba Provincial Parks, said fire restrictions have already been implemented for many parks in southern Manitoba.

"So campfires will only be permitted in approved fire pits between 8 pm and 8 am, so it's important that campers be prepared and pack a propane barbeque or stove so they can cook at other times," she explained.

Ostrup did caution that the situation could change at any time with restrictions being lifted following a heavy rainfall or more could be implemented if the dry conditions worsen.

She added park officials rely on campground visitors to help prevent wildfires from breaking out.

"So never leave their campfire unattended and make sure they extinguish it before they turn in for the night. Just like everything else, it's a big team effort should anything go awry to ensure that public safety is at the forefront."

Ostrup encourages campers to keep checking the wildfire program web site for the latest conditions.