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Touch Grass, Canada! It’s Free This Summer

by Candace Sampson

My favourite four-letter F word? Oh please that’s easy……FREE. You thought I was going to say something else didn’t you, you cheeky thing. I mean who amongst doesn’t love getting something for nothing, especially in this economy? This summer, thanks to the Canada Strong Pass, you can visit Parks Canada sites across the country completely free, from June 20 to September 2, 2025. That includes national parks, historic sites, marine conservation areas, and even discounted camping fees. It’s the federal government’s way of saying, “get outside and go touch some grass”, and I for one, couldn’t agree more. Here’s why the Canada Strong Pass is so meaningful.

Woman standing on rocks looking at Peggy’s Cove lighthouse in Nova Scotia during a Canada Strong Pass trip

Five Reasons to Take Advantage of the Canada Strong Pass

What is the Canada Strong Pass?
Free admission to Parks Canada sites, discounted camping, museum perks, and more—from June 20 to September 2, 2025.
Get the full details here.

Reconnect to Care

You can’t protect what you don’t know. And yet, an entire generation of kids is growing up indoors, eyes glued to screens instead of skipping rocks or spotting frogs. Adults aren’t doing much better. We’re so disconnected from the natural world, it’s no wonder the climate crisis feels abstract to so many.

Exploring a forest stream and bridge in Cape Breton Highlands National Park with the Canada Strong Pass

A massive Danish study tracking nearly a million people found that kids raised near green spaces were 55% less likely to develop mental health issues later in life. Reconnecting with nature isn’t just a nice to have; it’s a necessity. Plus, it’s cheaper than therapy, that’s just science kids.

Forest Bathing Is Legit

Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, isn’t just a lovely excuse to wander among the trees, it’s a medically recognized way to lower cortisol levels, heart rate, and blood pressure. One study showed it even boosts immune function. Netflix can’t compete. Your to-do list can wait. The trees are calling, and science, once again, says you really should go.

Hiking up Franey Mountain wearing Parks Canada hoodie under the Canada Strong Pass program

Ignorance Is Bliss (Sometimes)

Yes, the world is a mess. But stepping away from the noise doesn’t mean you’re disengaging—it means you’re refuelling. Taking a few hours (or days) to focus on birdsong, mossy trails, and campfire crackles is not selfish. It’s maintenance. Because when you return, you’ll be clearer, calmer, and maybe even a little more hopeful.

Woman wading into the ocean on a Canadian East Coast beach, embracing nature and summer travel in Canada

Tourism Keeps Canada Strong

When you visit Parks Canada sites or book a weekend in one of our incredible small towns, you’re supporting local jobs, preserving historic landmarks, and helping fund conservation. You’re making an investment in Canada’s cultural and environmental future when you spend your travel dollars here, and that alone should keep you here.

Scenic view of turquoise lake and mountain in Banff National Park, Alberta, perfect for Canada Strong Pass travellers

We’re All a Bit Broke

Groceries cost more than your first car, gas is a luxury, and booking a vacation feels like a financial trust fall. That’s why the Canada Strong Pass couldn’t have come at a better time. Free admission to national parks and historic sites, plus a discount on camping? That’s a getaway that doesn’t require a side hustle.

Group of women at Parks Canada oTENTik site on a girls’ camping trip in Ontario at Beausoleil Island
Looking for a perfect nature escape?
Beausoleil Island is one of Ontario’s best-kept secrets—and it’s ideal for a girls’ trip. Read all about it here.

And here’s the thing: we’re already rich beyond measure—we just forget to look around. Canada is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and it’s sitting right in your backyard. Mountains, coastlines, forests, rivers, prairies, tundra—you name it, we’ve got it. You don’t have to cross an ocean to find wonder. It’s all right here, waiting.

This summer, you don’t need airport stress, baggage fees, or currency exchange headaches. Just toss some snacks in a cooler, load up the playlist, and hit the road. Your budget (and your nervous system) will thank you.

Parks Canada scenic view
Planning your next adventure?
Don’t miss my guide to the best Parks Canada places to visit this summer—including tips on where to go, what to see, and why you’ll want to book soon.

Canada Strong Pass: Quick FAQ

What is the Canada Strong Pass?

It’s a cross-country initiative designed to make it easier (and cheaper) to explore Canada this summer—from national parks to museums to train travel. It runs from June 20 to September 2, 2025, and includes:
Parks Canada
Free admission for all visitors to:
National parks
National historic sites
National marine conservation areas
25% discount on camping fees
Free lockage on the seven historic canals (mooring fees still apply)
National Museums and the Plains of Abraham Museum
Free admission for children aged 17 and under
50% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24
VIA Rail
Free travel for children aged 17 and under when accompanied by an adult
25% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24
Provincial and Territorial Museums and Galleries
Free admission for children
50% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24 at participating locations

Who gets the Canada Strong Pass?

Everyone in Canada—there’s no sign-up, no pass to show, and no fine print. Just go and enjoy.

Already have a Parks Canada Discovery Pass?

If it’s valid during June, July, or August 2025, it will be automatically extended by three months. You don’t need to do anything.

What if I already booked a campsite?

If your reservation falls between June 20 and September 2, Parks Canada will email you with details on how to receive your prorated refund. You’ll hear from them closer to your reservation date.

Where can I learn more?

Parks Canada admission and camping page
Government of Canada news release
VIA Rail Canada Strong Pass offers

Category: Canada, TravelTag: affordable Canadian getaways, budget travel Canada, camping in Canada, Canada Strong Pass, Canadian national parks, Family travel Canada, forest bathing, free summer activities Canada, nature and mental health, outdoor adventures, Parks Canada, reconnect with nature, summer travel tips, support Canadian tourism, travel Canada 2025

About Candace Sampson

Candace Sampson is the founder of Life in Pleasantville and the host of What She Said, Canada’s longest-running women’s talk show turned podcast. A trusted voice in Canadian lifestyle and travel media for over a decade, Candace blends storytelling with sharp insight to connect with women on everything from solo travel to social issues. She’s also the creator of Girl Trips, a women-focused retreat and travel brand. Find her on Instagram @candace_said @whatshesaidtalk and @girltrips.ca

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