We know that spending time in nature is good for us.
Sometimes we just need a little push to get outside and feel the effects!
That’s why on July 18, 2025, we are offering a variety of activities in parks across the province to celebrate the benefits of connecting with nature.
All parks that normally charge a day-use fee will open for FREE entry, allowing visitors to enjoy the benefits of being in nature.
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Book your permit in advance at participating parks
Although day use is free on July 18, it is important to reserve your spot in advance to guarantee access.
Visit our reservation service to obtain a daily vehicle permit in advance up to five days in advance of your trip.
Parks not listed on this service do not require you to obtain your permit in advance.
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Special events
Did you know the Discovery Program has offered interpretive programs to visitors for 80 years?
Explore a new trail on a guided hike, play with your kids at children’s programs, paddle a voyageur canoe, or tour a historic mine.
The best part?
Programs are included with your day use permit or camping reservation.
As part of the celebration, here are a few special Discovery programs happening on July 18:
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Giant Floor Map, Sibbald Point Provincial Park
Join Sibbald Point staff on the Giant Floor Map to celebrate the health benefits of getting outside in Ontario Parks.
Meet staff at the Playfield at 2:00 pm.
*This program is weather-dependent and will be canceled due to rain or high winds.
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Guided Hike, Art in the Park, Grundy Lake Provincial Park
Join park staff for a guided hike and stick around for a sunset “Art in the Park” to paint the stunning orange, pink, and yellow hues of the setting sun.
Visit Grundy Lake’s event page for updates.
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Silver Queen Mine Guided Hike, Murphys Point Provincial Park
Join park staff at 10:00 a.m. for a guided tour down the Silver Queen Mine Trail and into the historic mica mine!
Visitors should preregister for this tour through the park’s gatehouse or by calling the park at (613) 267-5060 x0.
*Please note that while pets are allowed on the hike (on leash), they are not permitted in the mine or buildings. Wearing suitable footwear such as running shoes or hiking boots is strongly recommended.
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Guided Hike, Neys Provincial Park
As you investigate the past of Neys Provincial Park, you may be shocked to find a vital part of Canada’s contribution to the Second World War.
Join a Discovery program interpreter at the Visitor Centre for an hour-long walk through Area One to witness the remains of Prisoner of War Camp 100 and catch a glimpse of the stories they hold.
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Yoga in the Park, Rock Point Provincial Park
Please Join Sarah from Sayza Yoga Studios for a family yoga session.
Sarah will lead you through a fun and easy yoga class that is perfect and accessible for the whole family.
She teaches from the ground up and will ensure that you get a good balance of stretching and strengthening, have fun with some partner poses, and, of course, enjoy some much-needed relaxation at the end.
If you have a towel or a mat, you may wish to bring one.
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Meet our Discovery Ambassadors!
They’re located within 21 parks across the province.
Join a drop-in workshop during your day use visit to learn an outdoor skill at participating parks.
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Have you checked out our events calendar?
Use the park events calendar to see highlighted special events, or visit each park’s webpage to find a complete list of events during your trip.
Pay special attention to the description to see if you need to register in advance for any programs.
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Ready to spend the day in parks?
Use our Park Locator to find a park near you.
