Ontario is offering free day-use permits at 115 provincial parks from Monday to Thursday until Sept. 2, the province announced on Friday, May 28.
Starting June 7, visitors will also be able to get a daily vehicle permit up to five days in advance for 17 select parks to get guaranteed access and avoid long lineups. Visitors can check daily vehicle permit availability for specific parks and dates on the reservations website.
“Getting outdoors and spending time in nature can have many positive benefits on our physical and mental health this summer, as we recover from the impacts of COVID-19,” Environment, Conservation and Parks Minister Jeff Yurek stated.
“That’s why our government is making it easier for people to safely enjoy nature by providing free day-use permits and making it possible to book day trips in advance, which guarantees access to the popular parks close to home.”
This is a great incentive. Will the pass also allow use of the boat launches in parks that have them?
Hi Wayne,
The initiative is only for day use park admittance on the specified days. Please note that a pass is still required to be obtained, however there will not be a cost. You can review the full press release from Ontario Parks here. https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1000219/ontario-making-it-affordable-and-easier-to-visit-ontario-parks