Get your nature dose at Ontario Parks on July 20

Enjoy the health benefits of nature with free day-use at all provincial parks on July 20!

Ontario’s provincial parks play a vital role in the protection of our natural environment, but did you know spending time in nature is good for your health too?

Ontario Parks supports Healthy Parks Healthy People, a worldwide movement that showcases the very important role that healthy green space plays in human health. At Ontario Parks, we want to see more people outdoors, experiencing the unbelievable health benefits of time in nature. The research is clear: spending time in nature improves our physical, mental, and social well-being.

There’s lots to do!

On July 20, visitors can enjoy the many outdoor activities Ontario Parks has to offer. Whether it’s hiking, cycling, swimming, or paddling, there’s lots to do to stay active in the outdoors. Explore a new park, sample our facilities and services, or enjoy a fun event in a great natural setting.

There are events happening around the province to celebrate Healthy Parks Healthy People:

Do yoga at Balsam Lake Provincial Park! Namaste in nature with sunset yoga on the beautiful beach of Balsam Lake. You’ll leave feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.

Enjoy a meditative hike at Awenda Provincial Park. Take a moment to unplug and celebrate Healthy Parks Healthy People on a hike through the veritable living cathedral of Awenda’s old growth forest.

Try forest bathing at Quetico Provincial Park. Join staff in reconnecting with nature and engaging all of the senses. Originating in Japanese culture, Shinrin Yoku or “forest bathing” is a great way to feel calm in the mind, body, and spirit, and is recognized as a form of therapy.

30x30 Nature Challenge

Make nature a habit with the 30x30 Challenge.

The challenge is simple: spend 30 minutes outdoors for 30 days in August. Participants are encouraged to document their journey online with #30x30Challenge.

Want to learn more?

Find more information on Healthy Parks Healthy People here.

Keep up with Ontario Parks on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit the Parks Blog for up -to-date content.

Photography

High-resolution, credited photography can be downloaded from this photo library. For more photos, please contact judy@clearcommunications.ca.

Key contacts

Judy Hammond, CLEAR Communications Inc., judy@clearcommunications.ca

Jeff Brown, Ontario Parks, jeff.brown@ontario.ca