As recovery efforts in Jasper continue, Parks Canada is working hard to welcome them back into the national park.

Starting in January, people will be able to book campsites online for the 2025 season.

“The tremendous effort by Parks Canada, stakeholders and contractors on the ground is significant,” Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, said in a press release Thursday.

“Ensuring the majority of Parks Canada sites are ready for the summer of 2025 is key to recovery in Jasper National Park,” Boissonault said.

The main campsites including Whistlers, Miette as well as several self-registration sites will be open. Wapiti Campground will also reopen at reduced capacity.

The entrance to the Wapiti Campground in Jasper National Park on November 14, 2024. (Jeremy Thompson, CTV News Edmonton)

Wabasso and Whirlpool Group Campgrounds still require ongoing restoration and will remain closed.

Backcountry campsites will be available for reservation through the park’s reservation system.

Before opening areas of the park that have been affected by the fire, officials first consider any potential risk to public safety and ecological recovery needs.

Some high points, such as Astoria and Lake Wabasso, are still undergoing safety evaluations.

Jasper is the second most visited national park in the country, with 2.4 million visitors each year.

“This coming season, visitors can experience Jasper’s ongoing recovery and natural beauty while supporting the local economy and the park’s restoration efforts,” Boissonnault said.

But there are many businesses in the city that have yet to reopen, and why the federal government is offering financial help.

More than $3.9 million in funding was announced Thursday to help businesses recover from the fire.

“From mountain guides to hospitality providers and so many others, small businesses are vital to Jasper’s future. Today’s announcement will provide needed relief and support to hundreds of residents and businesses as they welcome visitors back to Jasper,” said Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister Responsible for Parks Canada.

The largest portion of the funding, $3.45 million, is allocated to the Jasper business recovery program.

It will provide grant funding to businesses in the City of Jasper or Jasper National Park with 50 or fewer employees.

Whistlers Campground in Jasper National Park, pictured on November 14, 2024. (Jeremy Thompson/CTV News Edmonton)

Sole proprietors in the construction, tourism or events sector will be eligible for up to $5,000, while incorporated companies can get up to $10,000.

“This support is critical to our recovery, recognizing that the economic revitalization of our local businesses is critical to the overall healing of our community,” said Jasper Mayor Richard Ireland.

“Helping small businesses find their footing again is the fastest way to get Jasper’s tourism sector going again,” Boissonnault said.

“This will help 325 businesses get the funding they need to reopen, support 500 good jobs in tourism and allow the city to reopen its doors to tourists and residents alike,” he added.

Anyone thinking of heading to Jasper is encouraged to plan ahead. Jasper National Park has a interactive map which includes real-time updates of sites and facilities that are open.