Photo via Lisa Bourgeault/Shutterstock
We all know that Canada’s national parks are some of the most beautiful in the world. From grand mountains to untouched forests and pristine waters, these natural, preserved green spaces are national treasures worth celebrating.
Luckily, Canadians can take advantage of our wild outdoors this holiday season. The Government of Canada is once again offering the Canada Strong Pass, which allows you free admission to all of Canada’s national parks from Dec. 12 to Jan. 15, 2026. There will also be a 25 per cent discount on fees for camping and overnight stays at national parks.
Later in 2026, the Canada Strong Pass will be back again for the summer from June 19 to Sept. 7, 2026. That means if you’ve ever wanted to visit the scenic mountains of Banff National Park, dip into the hottest springs in the Canadian Rockies, or experience the world’s highest tides at the Bay of Fundy, it’s now easier and more accessible to do just that.
Take advantage of this natural beauty while it lasts. This holiday season, strap on the hiking boots and bundle up to experience the best of Canada’s national park system.
The Government of Canada is offering free admission to locations operated by Parks Canada from:
During the Canada Strong Pass periods, no fees apply for admission to all national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas operated by Parks Canada. From June 19 to Sept. 7, 2026, no fees apply for lockage at the seven canals administered by Parks Canada on historic waterways.
Free admission only applies to places operated by and for Parks Canada, during regular operating hours. It does not apply to provincial or territorial parks, Sépaq parks in Québec, municipal and private parks, parks or historic sites not operated by Parks Canada, or locations operated by third parties.
During the Canada Strong Pass periods, fees still apply for camping and other overnight accommodations, reservations, access to Radium, Miette, and Banff Upper Hot Springs, mooring, guided hikes and tours, services provided by third parties, fishing licenses, firewood, parking, and permits. Make sure you check with the location you plan to visit for more details on fees.
If you do need to pay a fee for camping or an overnight stay, Parks Canada is also offering a 25 per cent discount during the Canada Strong Pass periods. A discount of 25 per cent will apply to fees for camping and roofed accommodations from Dec. 12 to Jan. 15 and June. 19 to Sept. 7, 2026.
Winter camping, backcountry overnight stays, tent and RV camping, cabins, yurts, tipis and historic stays are included in the discount, so if you’ve been craving an escape to nature for the family over the holidays, now is the perfect time to book a reservation.
Also note that online sales of Discovery Passes, single-location passes (annual or seasonal) and boating permits are suspended until both Canada Strong Pass periods are over. Admission passes and permits for lockage and mooring can be purchased on location where required.
You’re definitely going to want to take advantage of these sweet Parks Canada deals and discounts over the holiday season. Stay strong, Canada!
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