Canada Makes National Parks Free This Summer
Canada will waive admission fees at Parks Canada sites from 19 June to 7 September 2026, giving visitors free entry during the main summer season. The offer covers national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas operated by Parks Canada. It is part of the Canada Strong Pass and applies to both Canadian residents and international visitors.
The same summer programme will also cut camping and overnight stay fees by 25% at Parks Canada-operated locations. The discount applies to options including frontcountry camping, backcountry stays, equipped camping, oTENTiks, cabins, yurts, tipis and historic stays. Reservation fees, parking, firewood, mooring and services run by third parties are not included in the free admission offer.
What Is Included
The summer offer covers:
- Free admission: 19 June-7 September;
- Sites: Parks Canada national parks, historic sites and marine conservation areas;
- Accommodation discount: 25% off eligible camping and roofed stays;
- Booking advice: reservations are recommended where required, as summer availability may be limited.
The offer could make bigger Canada trips easier to plan around parks such as Banff, La Mauricie, Gros Morne, Georgian Bay Islands, Thousand Islands and Point Pelee. Visitors flying into Montreal can look at La Mauricie, while Toronto gives access to Georgian Bay Islands and Point Pelee. Western trips may centre on Banff, Jasper or other Rocky Mountain parks.
The main gain is lower entry cost, especially for people visiting several Parks Canada sites in one trip. Accommodation discounts may also help, though popular campgrounds can fill quickly. Anyone planning a summer route should still check each site before travelling, because reservations, parking and some activities may still cost extra even while admission is free.