Veterans and serving military get free daily access to Ontario provincial parks

What changed

• Ontario residents who are Veterans or active Canadian Armed Forces members can use free day‑use entry at any Ontario Parks location every day of the week, including long weekends and statutory holidays.

Who it affects and how to use it

• Eligible visitors: Veterans and active members of the Canadian Armed Forces who live in Ontario.
• How to access: Reserve in advance through the Ontario Parks Reservation Service or present valid Canadian Armed Forces ID (for example, a Veteran’s Service Card, Canadian Forces ID Card, Record of Service Card, or Temporary National Defence ID) plus photo ID showing Ontario residency when you arrive.
• Guests: Free entry also covers friends and family arriving in the same vehicle.
• Visit limits: There is no limit on how often eligible people can use the free day‑use entry; advance reservations are recommended during busy periods.

By the numbers (from the release)

• Applies to more than 340 Ontario Parks and over 300 conservation reserves.
• Since 2019, Ontario Parks recorded more than 228,000 weekday visits by Veterans, active Canadian Armed Forces members, and their companions.
• The province notes nearly 150,000 Veterans live in Ontario and that about 9,000 Canadian Armed Forces members are released from service each year.

Why it matters

• Expands access to outdoor recreation and the health benefits of nature for Veterans and serving members and their families, while supporting local tourism and park use.

Other note

• The release also mentions nominations are open for the 2026 Ontario Veterans Award for Community Service Excellence until September 4, 2026.