With the entry into force of the new version of the Act respecting tourist accommodation which takes the classification out of the law, Camping Québec has decided to maintain a program on a voluntary basis.

“What is important to understand is that the principle of classification with stars that is currently appearing is still attached to the old law,” explained the president and CEO of Camping Québec, Simon Tessier.

“You have to understand that during the pandemic, we did not go outside to classify campsites. It's been two years since we've been on the field. When the new law is in effect, in a few weeks, campsites will have a certain period of time to remove their star signs, he continues. However, for us, on our site and otherwise, everything will go away except for those who have signed up for our voluntary classification program. »

So far, more than 200 campsites have signed up and Tessier thinks that number will grow.

“Camping sites have not existed without stars, which is the reference sign for enthusiasts. »

A FIRST CLASSIFICATION

After several seasons without going to the field, Camping Québec experts will proceed this summer.

“This summer, we will experience our first season of voluntary classification, mentioned the CEO. We have an itinerary that will allow us to meet the campsites that have joined the program, as was done in the past. It is certain that we will do less. »

“In the past, we had already had a voluntary classification program which was causing problems. The campsites told us that if they did not have the number of stars they wanted, they would withdraw from Camping Québec. So, this season, we are going to do the program and if the campsite is not happy with its result, it will not be obliged to display it, ”he adds.

If the campsite chooses not to display its result, it will not have the benefits that come with participation in the program. If the classification has disappeared in the new law, there is still an obligation for campsites.

“In the new law, there is still a mandatory registration, to explain Mr. Tessier. It is in fact a form of permit which is in the form of a declaration which must be made to Camping Québec in order to prove that the campsite is still in the area. This permit costs $145. It is a government obligation. As for a verification on the ground, it will only be done with campsites that participate in the voluntary classification program. »

Ultimately, it is the consumers who will be the losers. A survey of camping enthusiasts revealed that they use the stars to decide where to go and more.

“We would have liked the system to remain in place, but, as the decision-makers did not want to, we found the compromise of voluntary classification for those who want to continue to appear. »

So, if you want to continue to rely on the stars to choose your campsite, hurry because soon, the information will disappear from several information platforms. However, we are often asked today to express our satisfaction with a service or an establishment, by giving it stars, from one to five most often.

ARCC OF QUEBEC

The Association régionale de camping et caravanage Québec-Métropolitain (ARCC 06) will hold a promotional activity on May 27, 28 and 29 at E.Boudreault VR. Located on Hamel Boulevard, the company will welcome you as part of an open house. This is a promotional activity to recruit new members. On the 27th, the activity will be held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., on the 28th, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on the 29th, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. In addition to new members, the ARCC de Québec is looking for volunteers. For more information: André Lagueux at 418 906-5900 or alagueux@gmail.com.

SEASON LAUNCH

ARC 06 will hold its start-of-season launch activity from June 3 to 5 at Camping Panoramique Parkbridge in Portneuf. Several activities and conferences are on the program. To register or find out more about the cost of participation, especially since places are limited, you must register before May 27 at www.arcc06.quebec. In addition to registering, you will be able to consult the detailed program of activities for the weekend.