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 21 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 21:
Bioblitz and art in the park, Grundy Lake Provincial Park
Staff is collaborating with Georgian Bay Biosphere to conduct a bioblitz at Grundy Lake!
“What is a bioblitz?” You can ask. It is a short period of time in which experts and community scientists come together to record all nature sightings in a given area.
Stay and enjoy a sunset at Art in the Park to paint the stunning orange, pink and yellow hues of the setting sun.
Forest Bathing and Scavenger Hunt in Killbear Provincial Park
Join park staff for a guided hike and scavenger hunt throughout the park.
Visit the Killbear event page for updates.
“A Sense of Place” Guided Hike, Blue Lake Provincial Park
This guided walk takes visitors. via the Boulder Ridge Trail.
Use your senses to experience the trail in a unique way. Explore and reflect on your relationships with parks and other special places.
Meet Discovery staff at 2:00 pm in the park’s amphitheater.
*Closed shoes and insect repellent are recommended.
Guided Walk and Art in the Park, Darlington Provincial Park
Meet Darlington staff at 10:30am for a guided walk focused on mindfulness.
At 1:30 pm, staff will conduct an Art in the Park painting program at the Visitor Center.
Visit the Darlington event page for even more fun!
Guided Silver Queen Mine Hike and Art in the Park, Murphys Point Provincial Park
Join park staff at 10:00 am for a guided tour of the Silver Queen Mine Trail and the historic mica mine.
Visitors must pre-register for this tour through the park entrance gate or by calling the park at (613) 267-5060 x0.
*Please note that while pets are allowed on the walk (on leash), they are not allowed in the mine or buildings. Appropriate footwear such as running shoes or hiking boots is strongly recommended.
Stay for an Art in the Park session with the park’s Head Naturalist, Rachel, on the main beach from 1:00 to 2:00 pm!
Guided walk “Remnants of the past”, Neys Provincial Park
Join neys Discovery staff in a-One-hour walk to see the remains of Camp 100, a World War II prisoner-of-war camp, and hear the stories within.
Meet staff at 2:00 pm in the Visitor Center.
Meet our park ambassadors!
They are located in 19 parks throughout the province.
Try a drop-in session, take a guided hike, or visit a demo camp.
Check the events posted at the park’s front gate or comfort stations for more information!
Have you checked our 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.
Reserve your permit in advance 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 the many participating parks up to five days before your trip.
Ready to spend the day in the parks?
Use our park locator to find a park near you.