We know that spending time in nature is good for us.
Sometimes we just need a little push to get out there and feel the effects!
That’s why on July 15 we will be offering a variety of activities in parks across the province to celebrate Healthy People in Healthy Parks Day.
All parks that normally charge a day-use fee will offer free admission so you can enjoy the benefits of being in nature.
Special events
Did you know that the Discovery Program has offered interpretive programs to visitors for more than 75 years?
Explore a new trail on a guided hike, play with your kids in children’s programs, paddle a voyageur canoe, or tour a historic mine.
The best part?
Programs are free with your day use permit or camping reservation.
Here are some discovery programs taking place on July 15:
Sunset Walk to Sunset Rock, Killarney Provincial Park
Join naturalist Kate on a journey back in time to witness the powers of water, land and ice that have shaped Killarney’s landscape for billions of years.
This gentle walk to George Lake Campground’s most picturesque viewpoint will reveal signs of Killarney’s geological past right beneath your feet.
Nature Detective Exploration Station, Bonnechere Provincial Park
Bring your Discovery activity book with you (or pick one up at the exploration station) and use the equipment and materials provided to explore the park, observe plants and animals, and discover the wonders of nature.
Be sure to share your observations with park staff and take the Discovery Ranger Pledge!
Beginner Yoga and Stretching Session, Mara Provincial Park and McRae Point Provincial Park
Join our park ambassador on the beach for a beginner yoga/stretching session while overlooking beautiful Lake Simcoe.
Did you know there are park ambassadors available at 15 parks offering workshops to learn new outdoor skills?
Make sure that reserve your spot in advance!
Here are some ambassador workshops taking place on July 15:
How to Build the Perfect Campfire, Sibbald Point Provincial Park
What camping trip is complete without a cozy campfire?
Campfires keep us warm, cook our food, and are perfect for creating happy memories with family and friends. Learn everything you need to light, care for, and put out your fire when you’re done.
How to set up your site, Sibbald Point Provincial Park
New to camping and not sure what to do when you arrive at your campsite?
Join a park ambassador to learn what equipment you’ll need, how to set up your eating and sleeping areas, how to protect nature while you’re here, and how to take it down when you’re done.
One by one topics
Are you planning an overnight trip to one of our participating parks for Healthy Parks Healthy People Day?
Can book an ambassador on July 15 at Awenda Provincial Park, Turkey Point Provincial Park, Killbear Provincial Park, Long Point Provincial Park, Earl Rowe Provincial Park or Killarney Provincial Park for one of the following themes:
- How to cook while camping
- I’m new to Ontario parks. What do I need to know?
- What types of animals live in Ontario parks?
Find a park near you!
Use our park locator to find a park near you.
Have you checked our new events calendar?
Use the park’s events calendar to see notable special events taking place or visit each park’s website to find a complete list of events taking place during your trip.
Pay close attention to the description to see if you need to register in advance for any programs.
Make an early reservation at participating parks (yes, even on HPHP Day!)
Just because day use is free on Healthy Parks Healthy People Day doesn’t mean you don’t need to reserve your spot (in fact, we expect to be very busy, so it’s even more important!).
Visit our reservation service to obtain a daily vehicle permit in advance for one of 33 participating parks up to five days before your trip.