Canada Offers Free National Park Visits This Summer

Dreaming of exploring Canada’s breathtaking natural landscapes this summer? Good news! The Canadian government is bringing back a fantastic program that makes visiting national parks, historic sites, and marine conservation areas totally free.

Your Free Ticket to Canadian Wonders

From June 19 through September 7, 2026, you can take advantage of the Canada Strong Pass. This federal program isn’t a physical pass you need to register for – it’s an automatic discount that applies to both Canadian residents and international visitors at participating Parks Canada locations.

This incredible offer means free admission to iconic spots like Banff National Park, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, and Prince Edward Island National Park. Plus, you’ll get a 25 percent discount on camping and overnight stays, and even waived lockage fees at seven historic canals.

What’s Included (and What’s Not)

While admission is on the house, it’s important to note that some costs are still separate. You’ll still need to pay for camping and other accommodations, reservations, hot springs, parking, firewood, fishing licenses, guided tours, and any programs that typically have a fee. Third-party services are also not included in this offer.

However, that 25 percent discount on camping and roofed accommodations, including oTENTiks, cabins, and yurts, can still lead to significant savings for overnight stays. Just remember that reservation system administrative fees apply, and this discount can’t be combined with other promotions.

Important Details to Keep in Mind

The Canada Strong Pass specifically applies to locations administered by Parks Canada. This means it won’t cover provincial parks, territorial parks, or private attractions. It’s always a good idea to double-check which parks and sites are included when planning your itinerary.

Parks Canada is offering this pass as part of a larger initiative to make Canada’s rich natural and cultural heritage more accessible. After seeing a 13 percent increase in visitation through the program last summer, it’s clear this is a popular and valuable initiative for travelers.