Celebrated on the third Saturday in July, Parks Day is a time for Albertans to get outside and enjoy the hundreds of provincial parks and recreation areas across the province. These parks are more than just scenic landscapes; they are essential to the physical, mental and social well-being of Albertans. Alberta’s parks showcase unique landscapes and countless opportunities for recreation while conserving the land for future generations. From beautiful scenery and wildlife to memorable visitor experiences, Alberta’s provincial parks have a lot to celebrate.

First recognized across Canada in 1990, Parks Day highlights how Albertans take advantage of our illustrious provincial parks and the role these parks play in protecting ecosystems, habitat and species at risk. This year’s celebration also marks 94 years of Alberta’s provincial parks system. 

“I would like to wish all Albertans a happy Parks Day. From the mountains to the badlands, prairies to boreal forest, our provincial parks allow Albertans and visitors to access and enjoy our province’s natural beauty. Whether you’re returning to one of your favourite provincial parks or experiencing a new one this weekend, let’s continue exploring, experiencing, and enjoying Alberta’s great outdoors.”

Alberta’s provincial parks system contains 464 provincial parks and protected areas ranging from conservation-focused to recreation-focused parks. This year, Alberta’s government grew Alberta’s parks by 1,400 hectares, including the establishment of La Biche Provincial Recreation Area and Kleskun Hills Provincial Park.

Parks Day features special events across the province, including bike parades and scavenger hunts, as well as educational programs that celebrate Alberta’s wildlife, biodiversity and history. A complete list of Parks Day celebrations across the province is available online. Alberta’s parks offer many more activities for the whole family, such as guided tours, hikes and educational programs designed to provide fun for all ages.

“The Friends of Kananaskis Country is excited to celebrate Parks Day. Albertans and visitors are very fortunate to have so many great parks to enjoy and recreate in throughout the province. Of course, the Friends’ favourite place to hike, boat, and camp is in Kananaskis Country. It is truly a jewel in the crown of Alberta Parks. Happy Parks Day.”

Quick facts

• The Provincial Parks and Protected Areas Act was passed in 1930 and Alberta’s first park – Aspen Beach Provincial Park – was established in 1932.
• The current value of Alberta’s parks to the provincial economy is close to $1 billion in GDP, $400 million in labour income and almost 9,000 jobs per year.
• On January 25, Alberta’s government announced 18 park boundary amendments through Order-in-Council to create two new parks in Northern Alberta and add more than 1,400 hectares of land to the provincial park system.
• These amendments enhanced recreation and camping opportunities for Albertans while protecting rare grasslands and addressing unresolved administrative issues and small site deregulations.

Related information

• Parks Day information and events
• Find a provincial park
• Provincial park events
• Our History | Alberta Parks