This Friday, Ontario Parks will be offering free day-use access in celebration of Healthy Parks Healthy People Day.
On July 21, you'll get the chance to visit any of the operating parks, try their facilities, and enjoy their services with no entry fees.
Championed by the Minister of the Environment, Conservation, and Parks, David Piccini, Healthy Parks Healthy People Day is a global movement that celebrates the transformative power of nature on our physical, mental, and social well-being. Research has consistently shown that spending time in nature can work wonders, from reducing anxiety and boosting self-esteem to even lowering blood pressure.
On July 21, Ontario Parks is offering free day use in our parks in celebration of Healthy Parks Healthy People. Get out to reap the benefits of the great outdoors.
— Rideau River Provincial Park (@RideauRiverPP) July 19, 2023
Side effects include:
- increased happiness
- pain reduction
- improved sleep
- reduced stress pic.twitter.com/NbbUsNkBnV
Ontario Parks offers a diverse array of programs and facilities to indulge in nature's bounties all year round, regardless of your outdoor experience. Whether you're hiking, cycling, paddling, swimming, or simply basking in the serene landscapes, these activities foster physical health and contribute to overall well-being and happiness.
However, in addition to Healthy Parks Healthy People Day, Ontario parks is also promoting other opportunities to engage with nature.
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The 30x30 Challenge: A call to action encouraging everyone to dedicate 30 minutes a day to nature for 30 days during the month of August. Embrace the therapeutic essence of the wilderness as you embark on this transformative journey.
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Take a Hike Day: On August 9, enjoy guided hikes at provincial parks across the province. An exciting addition to this year's lineup, this event promises to be an immersive experience for adventure enthusiasts.
In addition to these fun events, the Ontario government is taking steps to expand recreational opportunities for families and communities alike with the new all-season, full-service provincial park, located at Bigwind Lake Provincial Park near Bracebridge, that's set to open its doors.
This marks the first such park in over 40 years, promising an extraordinary retreat amidst nature's embrace. Further plans are underway for an urban provincial park near Uxbridge, offering an oasis of tranquility amid the bustling city life.
Additionally, Ontario recently announced its first new conservation reserve in over a decade, underscoring the government's commitment to safeguarding the province's natural treasures.
As we celebrate Healthy Parks Healthy People Day, Minister Piccini encourages all Ontarians to enjoy the great outdoors. To guarantee access, visitors are strongly encouraged to obtain a daily vehicle permit prior to July 21 at no charge for the parks offering this service.
Passes will be valid until 10 pm, so visitors will have time to explore, hike, swim, and take advantage of countless other opportunities within the park they visit. The pass does not include the use of other paid facilities, such as overnight camping and equipment rentals.
Use the Ontario Parks locator tool to find a provincial park near you.
