Parks Canada Opens 2026 Season Reservations, Announces Conservation Funding
OTTAWA, January 20, 2026 – Parks Canada has launched its reservation system for the 2026 visitor season, with booking windows opening on a rolling basis from late January through February. The agency also confirmed the return of the popular Canada Strong Pass programme for summer 2026, offering free admission and camping discounts. These announcements come alongside recent federal investments exceeding $8 million to bolster ecological connectivity in British Columbia.
How to Reserve Your 2026 Visit
Prospective visitors must act quickly, as reservations for popular destinations like Banff, Jasper, and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve are highly sought after. The reservation launch, originally scheduled to begin on January 16, has been partially postponed, with many western parks now opening bookings on January 29. A queuing system will be in place for high-demand locations to manage website traffic. All users must create a new Parks Canada Reservation Service account if they have not booked since March 2023.
The Canada Strong Pass will offer free admission to national parks, historic sites, and marine conservation areas from June 19 to September 7, 2026. A 25 per cent discount on camping and roofed accommodations will also apply during this period, following a similar holiday promotion from December 2025 to mid-January 2026.
Conservation and Funding in Focus
Beyond visitor access, Parks Canada continues to advance its conservation mandate. In July 2025, the federal government, in partnership with the Province of British Columbia, announced a joint investment of more than $8.3 million to improve ecological corridors in the province. The federal contribution of $5.3 million supports the “Stewardship of Ecological Corridors in British Columbia” initiative, aimed at reconnecting fragmented habitats to support wildlife movement and climate adaptation.
This aligns with the agency’s National Programme for Ecological Corridors, launched in 2022. A recent management action plan, responding to a 2025 audit, commits Parks Canada to developing a coordinated national plan by March 2026 to meet Canada’s goal of protecting 30 per cent of its land and waters by 2030.
Key Facts & Planning Your Visit
| Park / Historic Site | Province/Territory | 2026 Reservation Launch Date & Time |
|---|---|---|
| Banff National Park | Alberta | January 23, 8:00 am MT (Queue in place) |
| Jasper National Park (Frontcountry) | Alberta | January 27, 8:00 am MT (Queue in place) |
| Pacific Rim National Park Reserve | British Columbia | January 29, 8:00 am PT (Queue in place) |
| Riding Mountain National Park | Manitoba | January 30, 8:00 am CT |
| Bruce Peninsula National Park | Ontario | February 2, 8:00 am ET |
| Prince Edward Island National Park | Prince Edward Island | February 9, 8:00 am AT |
| Gros Morne National Park | Newfoundland and Labrador | February 11, 8:30 am NT |
Visitors are encouraged to review all operating seasons and reservable periods on the Parks Canada website, as they vary by campground and activity. For those unable to secure a reservation, the agency recommends setting up availability notifications or exploring less-busy alternative parks.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Parks Canada 2026 reservations open?
Reservations open on a staggered schedule between January 20 and February 11, 2026. Specific dates and times vary by park and are listed on the official Parks Canada reservation website. High-demand locations like Banff and Jasper will utilise a virtual queue system.
What is the Canada Strong Pass?
The Canada Strong Pass is a federal initiative offering free admission to all Parks Canada administered places from June 19 to September 7, 2026. It also provides a 25 per cent discount on camping and overnight stays during that period. Youth aged 17 and under receive free admission year-round.
How is Parks Canada addressing conservation concerns?
The agency is pursuing a dual mandate of facilitating public enjoyment and protecting ecological integrity. Recent efforts include a major investment in British Columbia’s ecological corridors, a commitment to refine its 30×30 conservation targets by March 2026, and ongoing species-at-risk recovery projects. Critics, including the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, continue to urge a stronger focus on conservation over development within park boundaries.
What should I do if my desired campsite is booked?
If your first choice is unavailable, use the “Site Calendar” feature to find alternative dates, consider splitting your stay across different sites, or explore other campgrounds within the same park. You can also sign up for availability notifications through your Parks Canada account to be alerted if a suitable site becomes free due to a cancellation.