Parks Canada is offering free admission and 25% discounted overnight stays from June 20th to September 2nd! This comes amid a rising interest in camping across Canada. According to CamperChamp, 6.3 million Canadian households now identify as campers—up from 4.9 million in 2019. With domestic travel expected to increase this year due to economic and political factors, this announcement couldn’t be better timed. (Source: Canada Tourism Economy)
In light of this, the outdoors industry has responded with deals, initiatives, and more. One company at the forefront is MEC, which works closely with Parks Canada and others. I had the chance to speak with their newly appointed CEO, Peter Hlynsky, about camping and the outdoors.
How to Take Advantage of Free BC Parks Admission and 25% Off Camping Fees
Alouette Lake at Golden Ears Provincial ParkIf you’re planning to benefit from the free BC Parks admission and discounted camping fees, here are some tips—many from Peter Hlynsky himself:
- Book Early: Popular destinations like Golden Ears and Garibaldi Lakes fill up months in advance. Make reservations as soon as possible.
- Explore Further: If you live in bigger cities like Vancouver, Victoria, or Kelowna, consider driving three hours outside the city. Campsites there tend to be less crowded and offer a more relaxed experience.
- Find Hidden Gems: The real secret to unique camping spots is that they aren’t widely known. While sites like Reddit and AllTrails are helpful starting points, Peter recommends visiting your local outdoor store to ask staff for insider tips. They can also help make sure you have the right gear for your trip.
Camping Tips From MEC CEO Peter Hlynsky
Peter Hlynsky1. Essentials
“The gear you absolutely can’t go without is your tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad,” Peter says. These basics are the foundation of a comfortable camp.
2. Lighting:
“Once you’ve experienced camping with a headlamp, you won’t go back,” he adds. A headlamp frees up your hands and is safer and more practical than a flashlight after dark.
3. Be Weather Ready:
“Mountain weather can change quickly. Always be prepared for rain or sudden drops in temperature,” Peter cautions. Packing layers and waterproof gear can make or break your trip.
4. Invest in Good Footwear:
Peter emphasizes the importance of solid hiking boots or trail runners. “Your feet are your foundation—blisters or sore feet can ruin your whole trip.” Proper footwear also helps with safety on rough or slippery terrain.
5. Stay Hydrated and Bring Water Purification:
“Carry enough water, but also a lightweight purification system if you’re camping near lakes or streams,” Peter advises. This ensures safe drinking water without hauling excessive weight.
6. Leave No Trace:
A core value for Peter and MEC is respecting the outdoors. “Pack out everything you bring in and minimize your impact. It’s about preserving these places for future generations.”
7. Plan for Connectivity—or the Lack of It:
“Don’t rely on cell service. Bring offline maps and have a basic navigation plan,” says Peter. Being prepared for limited connectivity helps avoid getting lost or stranded.
Whether you’re a first-time camper or a lifelong one, there’s no better time to get out there. Take a trip with the family, or seek out a quiet getaway. Just make sure to plan ahead—safety should always be the top priority. Research your destination and bring the right equipment to ensure you’re prepared for whatever nature throws your way.
Check out our other article about staying safe in the wild.
