Canadians were outraged by Parks Canada’s free entry “newcomer” policy

Many Canadians expressed dismay over the recently announced Parks Canada policy that will allow “newcomers to Canada and new Canadian citizens” free access to all national parks, historic sites and marine protected areas as part of a new policy.

According to Parks Canada’s website, for the next year there will be “access to all national parks, national historic sites and national marine wildlife areas managed by Parks Canada.”

“The Institute for Canadian Citizenship’s Canoo mobile app gives you free access for a year to all Parks Canada-managed places across the country,” it reads.

However, the free entry policy is limited solely to newcomers and new Canadian citizens. If you are already a tax-paying citizen, you will pay the full price.

“Get back to nature and unwind amid spectacular scenery in Canada’s national parks and marine protected areas,” the website says. “Celebrate your arrival in Canada or your citizenship with great Canadian experiences,” the post continued.

“See some of the most amazing places in Canada. We look forward to welcoming you!”

The Parks Canada Agency Act of 1998 established Parks Canada as a separate Government of Canada Agency, currently reporting to Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault.

While daily admission and service fees and single-site passes vary depending on location, camping fees for a family pass start at $151.25.

The announcement was met with strong disapproval on X, with the vast majority of comments expressing frustration with the new policy.

“But Canadian citizens have to pay $150…. Your priorities are completely backwards. Do better,” wrote one user on X.

“How about working together for Canadian citizens who have lived here for decades and struggle with the costs of just about everything!” another user wrote.

“This is disgusting… A slap in the face to Canadians born here….” said another.

According to the Parks Canada website, revenue from the purchase of park passes helps fund the management of Canada’s national parks.

Active members of the Canadian Armed Forces, veterans and their immediate families also received free admission to national parks earlier this year.

In addition, the parks are free for children 17 and under and for support persons who assist a visitor with a disability.