The province is expanding free day use of Ontario Parks for veterans and Canadian Armed Forces members to seven days a week.
The initiative starts today (Monday, July 20), and includes long weekends and statutory holidays.
“We are immensely grateful for the courage and sacrifices made by the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to defending our country and protecting our values of freedom and democracy,” says Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. “Expanding access to our incredible provincial parks is a token of appreciation for their service and commitment. Through this program, I hope all past and active service members can enjoy everything that Ontario Parks has to offer.”
The province says it expands the free weekday access launched in 2019, which has seen Ontario Parks welcome more than 228,000 weekday visits from veterans, active military members, their families and friends.
Access can be done in advance through the Ontario Parks Reservation Service, or by presenting valid Canadian Armed Forces identification and proof of Ontario residency with photo identification when arriving at the park.
Officials say booking reservations is recommended during busy periods.
They add free entry extends to friends and loved ones accompanying a service member or veteran in the same vehicle.
