Ontario expands free provincial park access for veterans to seven days a week
Starting July 20, veterans and active Canadian Armed Forces members can visit Ontario Parks free every day, no longer limited to weekdays.
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Veterans and active members of the Canadian Armed Forces who live in Ontario can now visit any of the province's more than 340 provincial parks free seven days a week, effective immediately.
The province expanded the program from free weekday access only — in place since 2019 — to include weekends, long weekends, and statutory holidays. Access works by advance reservation through the Ontario Parks Reservation Service or by presenting valid Canadian Armed Forces identification (Veteran's Service Card, Canadian Forces Identification Card, Record of Service Card, or Temporary National Defence Identification Card) plus proof of Ontario residency with photo ID at arrival. Free entry also extends to friends and loved ones arriving in the same vehicle.
Since 2019, Ontario Parks has welcomed more than 228,000 weekday visits from veterans, active service members, and their families. Environment Minister Todd McCarthy said the expansion recognizes the sacrifice of those who serve: "We are immensely grateful for the courage and sacrifices made by the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to defending our country."
Ontario is home to nearly 150,000 veterans and releases approximately 9,000 service members from military service annually.
The facts
When did Ontario expand free park access for veterans to seven days a week?
Ontario Parks expanded free access for veterans and active Canadian Armed Forces members to seven days a week effective July 20, 2026.
How many Ontario provincial parks offer free access to veterans?
Ontario Parks has more than 340 provincial parks offering free access to veterans and active Canadian Armed Forces members.
How many weekday visits from veterans have Ontario Parks recorded since 2019?
Ontario Parks welcomed more than 228,000 weekday visits from veterans, active service members, and their families since 2019.
