Reservations are about to open for the two national parks on the Bruce Peninsula.
Parks Canada says, Bruce Peninsula National Park and Fathom Five National Marine Park, located in the Territory of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, are popular summer locations, and now is a good time to start planning your summer trip.
Visitor Experience Manager Sean Skinkle says camping and parking reservations will open on February 2nd.
Skinkle says, “The Canada Strong Pass is the Government of Canada offering free entry fees to national parks and national historic sites and marine conservation areas as well as a 25 per cent discount on camping from June 19 to September 7 2026. Free admission does not mean guaranteed entry so reservations are still required fro Bruce Peninsula National Park and Fathom Five National Marine Park.”
Skinkle has some tips to help visitors make reservations, plan ahead and make the most of their visit:
“My pro tip is to make sure that you’ve created your Parks Canada account before launch day, so you aren’t doing that at 8 a.m. on February 2nd,” says Skinkle.
He adds, “Although you’ll have your preferred location and dates, make sure you have backup options ready.”
He says you’ll get a confirmation email once you’ve booked. “Make sure you read that, because it’s going to have some really important tips for your trip,” says Skinkle.
Attractions like the Grotto and Halfway Log Dump have parking by reservation and it’s managed in time slots in order to handle the high volume of visitors.
Skinkle notes, “You also have other fees that may be applicable. For example, the entry fee is waived for Canada Strong but the parking fees still apply.” Other fees that may apply include reservation fees, third-party services like boat tours, and more.
For those already in the local area, Skinkle says the parks aren’t as busy in the mornings, and late spring and early fall are also options to consider if you want to beat the crowds.
Meanwhile, if you like staying active in the winter, the park is beautiful this time of year.
“The park is currently open,” says Skinkle, noting, “Bruce Peninsula National Park is open during the winter this year and is less busy and it’s a tranquil time to be here. You can visit our website, it has lots of information, safety information and how to visit and a list of activities and guided programs to help you connect with the season.”
Skinkle notes, “Currently we have lots of snowfall in the area, as you’ll notice, and we have 10km of freshly groomed cross-country ski trails and activities happening on the weekend. You don’t have to wait.” He says if you want to know the conditions of the ski trails, just give them a call.
Here are the tips from local Parks Canada reps:
Popular sites and dates fill quickly-plan ahead to secure your preferred location.
Create or update your Parks Canada account before launch day.
Have your preferred dates and backup options ready.
Review site details for accessibility, services, and seasonal conditions.
What is reserveable through the Parks Canada Reservation System
Front country campsites
Backcountry campsites
Overnight parking can be purchased at Cyprus Lake Campground upon arrival.
Roofed accommodations (yurts)
Day-use (parking at Cyprus Lake and Halfway Log Dump)
How to book
Book your stay through the reservation service by visiting the Parks Canada website at
www.reservation.pc.gc.ca or by calling 1-877-RESERVE (1-877-737-3783).