Mainprize Regional Park, just thirty-five minutes Southeast of Weyburn and forty minutes West of Estevan, is the brainchild of developers of the Rafferty Dam Reservoir.
The regional park was originally formed in 1961 and sat alongside the souris river. Plans were underway to build the Rafferty Reservoir, and if it were to be made, the park would be flooded over. The park’s board of directors decided to move it to where it sits today.
In 1994 the new Mainprize Regional Park was established and an 18 hole golf course was built. The development of a campground and residential lots started to take shape with it.
“The park grew a lot in forty years, today there are 9 rental cabins, 80 or more permanent homes, 187 seasonal campsites and 58 short-term rental sites,” shared Michelle Walsh, the park’s general manager.
We have so many things to do here at Mainprize. We have a venue that can host large events, a store, paddle board rentals, a beautiful beach, playground area, golfing and the best fishing in the area.”
The park is an example of how long-term visions can result in demonstrable economic benefits to the community.
“We have people that lease camping spots that come from all over. Many come from surrounding areas and towns, or even other provinces. Every year, they shop here, play here, and live here from spring to fall. They get groceries in nearby communities and go there when they want to explore the region.
They have been coming here for years; this is their little slice of heaven. They fill their days fishing or golfing and have their grandkids here enjoying the beach; swimming. This is where those kids have spent their summer vacations and the place that they’ll remember growing up.”
Walsh recently participated in the Destination Creation Course and learned to focus on goals and objectives and not be discouraged because they take time. With that focus, great things can happen.
One of the goals they will be working towards is to bring the golf course market-ready, with some technological advancements, online booking and the like. Another will be to focus their marketing efforts.
“Our little gem is a secret to some. We want everyone to know when they come down the hill to our park, they have arrived at the best holiday destination in southeast Saskatchewan.”
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Website: https://www.mainprizepark.com/