A coast-to-coast list of family-friendly national parks in Canada, with tips for exploring them with kids

Looking to explore the best national parks in Canada with your family this summer? Planning a trip that’s fun, active, and full of natural beauty can be tough — especially with kids in the mix.

You want somewhere that keeps everyone engaged, offers some adventure, and gives you a true taste of Canada’s outdoors. But with so many national parks to choose from, where do you even start?

I’ve faced that same challenge. Over the years, we’ve made unforgettable memories camping, hiking, and exploring parks like Cape Breton Highlands, Kouchibouguac, and Pukaskwa — each one special in its own way.

And this summer’s a great time to go exploring — with the new Canada Strong Pass, admission to national parks across the country is free until September 2nd, making it even easier to plan your next adventure.

So in this post, I’ll share our top picks for family-friendly parks worth visiting — complete with trails, campsites, and plenty of space for kids to run wild.

Best National Parks in Eastern Canada

We’ve spent a lot of time exploring Eastern Canada’s national parks, and they’ve become some of our favourite spots for hiking, swimming, and camping with kids. Here are the ones we keep coming back to.

1. Cape Breton Highlands National Park (Nova Scotia)

We’ve been to Cape Breton Highlands a few times now, and it’s easily one of our favourite places in Nova Scotia. The Cabot Trail winds right through the park, with ocean views around every bend and some of the most beautiful beaches in Canada tucked along the coast.

There are 26 hiking trails to choose from, including forest walks, waterfalls, and dramatic cliffside lookouts. The Skyline Trail is the most iconic, but there are lots of other kid-friendly options too, like the shorter Bog Trail.

You’ll also find multiple campgrounds on both sides of the park, with everything from tent sites to roofed accommodations. Whether you’re looking to stay near Ingonish or Chéticamp, there’s a good base to explore from.

Why it works for families: Big views with little effort, quiet beaches to explore, and hiking that’s manageable even with younger kids.

Children walk down a wooden boardwalk trail that winds through grassy highlands overlooking the deep blue waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The boardwalk is part of the Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, with hikers in the distance enjoying panoramic coastal views on a sunny day.
Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park

2. Kejimkujik National Park (Nova Scotia)

Keji, as locals call it, is a favourite among Nova Scotians, but it tends to fly under the radar for visitors from outside the province. It’s a quieter park that’s perfect for families who love paddling, biking, and getting away from the crowds.

Rent a canoe or kayak to explore the calm waters, swim at Merrymakedge Beach, or hit the hiking and biking trails through the forest. Keji is also a Dark Sky Preserve, which makes it a great spot for stargazing after the kids are in their sleeping bags.

The park is home to many Mi’kmaq petroglyphs, carved into the rocks by the water, and cultural programming is often available in summer to help families learn more about the area’s Indigenous history.

The campsites here feel more private than some of the bigger parks in the region, and it’s a great base for a relaxed outdoor getaway.

Why it works for families: A slower-paced park with lots of ways to explore—on foot or by water—and a meaningful place to learn about Indigenous history together.

Two red Adirondack chairs sit side by side on a gravel clearing surrounded by forest at Kejimkujik National Park in Nova Scotia. The chairs face outward, inviting visitors to relax and enjoy the peaceful woodland setting.
Parks Canada iconic red chairs

3. Kouchibouguac National Park (New Brunswick)

We only visited Kouchibouguac for the first time last summer, but it quickly became one of our favourites. The park has one of the warmest saltwater beaches in Canada, with 25 km of sandy dunes stretching along the coast—perfect for beach days with kids.

Kellys Beach is the main beach area, connected by a long boardwalk across the dunes. It’s a great spot for swimming, with shallow, warm water and lots of space to spread out.

There are 60 km of flat biking trails, making it easy to explore on two wheels. You can also rent a canoe or paddleboard to explore the lagoons, or just spend the day splashing in the shallow, warm water.

Why it works for families: Easy biking, calm water, and a beach that’s just right for younger kids who want to play in the sand and waves.

Two young boys stand arm in arm on a wooden boardwalk that curves through grassy marshland toward the beach at Kouchibouguac National Park, New Brunswick. The boardwalk stretches into the distance under a partly cloudy sky beside the ocean.
Walk along the boardwalk to Kelly’s Beach
A woman and two children pose on a sandy trail surrounded by tall green grasses, leading to the water’s edge at Kouchibouguac National Park. Other visitors can be seen in the distance along the shore, enjoying the peaceful coastal setting.
Try the selfie stand for a fun photo!

4. Fundy National Park (New Brunswick)

Fundy is a classic summer spot in New Brunswick, with a great mix of coastal views, waterfalls, and forest trails. It’s known for having the world’s highest tides, and at low tide, you can actually walk right out onto the ocean floor—mud, rocks, and all.

There are also several waterfalls you can reach by short hikes, plus beaches and lookout points scattered through the park. It’s a popular spot in summer, so reservations are recommended, but we’ve often booked last minute and still found a site.

Why it works for families: Ocean floor exploring, waterfall walks, and the kind of natural change kids love watching—especially as the tide rushes in.

A rocky shoreline lined with dense evergreen forest stretches along the coast of Fundy National Park in New Brunswick, Canada. A tree-covered sea stack juts out into the Bay of Fundy, known for its dramatic tides and serene coastal views under a clear blue sky.
the Fundy coast

5. Prince Edward Island National Park (PEI)

PEI might be best known for Anne of Green Gables, but the beaches in the national park are just as unforgettable. The park stretches along the island’s north shore with a few different beach areas to choose from, so it’s easy to find a spot that fits your plans.

If you’re looking for more good spots, here are some of the best beaches in PEI for families.

Greenwich Dunes is a bit out of the way compared to the rest of the park, but absolutely worth the drive. The floating boardwalk there is a favourite with our kids—it winds through the marsh and ends right at the beach. We also love Brackley Beach for a more classic beach day, with soft sand and easy access.

Last time we visited, there was a beach toy lending bin at Brackley—a fun little free library-style setup that made the day even better.

Why it works for families: Gentle beaches, space to explore, and a mix of quiet dunes and fun boardwalk trails that kids won’t want to rush through.

a boy running up the beach with white sand
White sand beaches in PEI National Park

6. Gros Morne National Park (Newfoundland and Labrador)

We haven’t made it to Gros Morne yet, but it’s high on our list—and every friend or family member who’s gone has come back raving about it. My sister saw a moose while hiking, and others have said the trails and views are some of the best in Canada.

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the only places in the world where you can actually walk on the earth’s mantle. There are waterfalls to explore, bike-friendly roads, and a range of trails that are doable in a day.

Why it works for families: Unique geology, real wildlife sightings, and plenty of ways to explore at your own pace.

Towering cliffs rise dramatically on either side of a deep blue fjord under a clear blue sky in Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland. The rocky slopes are partially covered with green vegetation, highlighting the rugged natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

7. Forillon National Park (Quebec)

We haven’t made it to Forillon yet, but it’s on our list for this summer—and if everything we’ve heard is true, it’s going to be a highlight. The park sits at the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula, where cliffs drop into the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the hiking trails wind through forest and along the coast. You might even spot whales from the shore.

A friend of mine visited last year and loved the trails—but what really stood out was the playground area overlooking the water. There’s even a small zipline tucked into the play zone. While the kids play, parents can soak in the view of the gulf, mountains, and cliffs—or try the zipline themselves.

Why it works for families: Scenic coastal hikes, a well-placed playground, and a mix of nature and play that makes exploring easy with kids.

A scenic lookout with benches and a grassy terrace sits atop a cliff in Forillon National Park, Quebec, overlooking a calm bay bordered by dramatic, forested cliffs. The water reflects the sky and clouds above, with a rugged rock formation jutting out near the shore.

Best National Parks in Ontario

Ontario’s national parks are easy to explore on a summer road trip, with a mix of beaches, forests, and lakes that are great for kids. Some parks—like Point Pelee—are perfect for a quick day trip, while others, like Pukaskwa, offer more of a wilderness adventure.

8. Point Pelee National Park (Ontario)

Another that we’re excited to visit this summer, as we now have family living nearby, is Point Pelee. It’s the southernmost point in Canada, which makes it a cool place to visit for that fact alone—but there’s plenty more to see once you’re there.

The park has boardwalk trails, marshes, and sandy beaches along Lake Erie. It’s also a major stop for bird migration in spring and fall, but summer is great for paddling, swimming, and walking out to “the tip” where the land narrows into the lake.

Why it works for families: A mix of nature trails, beach time, and a chance to say you’ve been to the very tip of Canada.

A long wooden boardwalk winds through golden marsh grasses and still wetlands in Point Pelee National Park, Ontario. The elevated path offers a scenic view of the diverse ecosystem under a clear sky, perfect for birdwatching and nature walks.

9. Bruce Peninsula National Park (Ontario)

Bruce Peninsula is known for its clear, turquoise water, dramatic cliffs, and some of the best summer hiking and swimming in Ontario. It’s also one of the most popular parks in the province—so if you’re going, plan ahead.

The Grotto and Halfway Log Dump are two of the most well-known spots, with rocky shorelines and deep blue pools perfect for exploring or just relaxing near the water. Close by, Fathom Five National Marine Park offers boat tours to shipwrecks and views of the iconic Flowerpot Rock formations.

Why it works for families: A chance to swim in clear water, explore rugged trails, and take a boat ride to see underwater shipwrecks—what more could kids ask for?

A tall limestone sea stack, known as a “flowerpot,” stands beside the blue waters of Georgian Bay in Bruce Peninsula National Park. The iconic rock formation is topped with a small patch of greenery, set against a backdrop of clear skies and shoreline cliffs.

10. Pukaskwa National Park (Ontario)

We visited Pukaskwa on a northern Ontario road trip, and even after seeing so many incredible sights along the way, this park totally blew us away.

We tackled the long hike to the White River Suspension Bridge—even with 6-year-olds in tow. It was epic, and while I wouldn’t recommend it for every family, it’s one we’ll never forget.(We actually found the top of the Giant trail at Sleeping Giant PP to be more engaging for kids.)

There’s other shorter family-friendly hikes too, like the one that leads to the iconic red Parks Canada chair, where you’ll have a great lake view and a good photo op. 

For an easier day, head to Hattie’s Beach for a swim or walk to one of the other beaches for a spectacular sunset. There’s driftwood everywhere, which made it paradise for our kids—who spent more time building forts than swimming.

Why it works for families: Remote but rewarding—plenty of space to explore, quieter trails, and beaches that turn into natural playgrounds.

Two young children sit side by side on a rocky outcrop, gazing out over a calm, forested lake in Pukaskwa National Park, Ontario. Surrounded by evergreen trees and distant forested islands, the scene captures a peaceful, scenic moment in Canada’s rugged northern wilderness.
One of the best viewpoints in Pukaskwa

Best National Parks in Western Canada

Western Canada is home to some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country—towering mountains, wild beaches, glaciers, and wide-open skies. These parks offer bigger terrain and iconic scenery, but still have plenty of family-friendly trails, day-use areas, and adventure that’s easy to access.

11. Banff National Park (Alberta)

Banff is Canada’s most visited national park—and it’s easy to see why. With glacier-fed lakes, towering mountains, and easy access from Calgary, it’s a great entry point to the Rockies.

Ride the gondola up Sulphur Mountain, walk the boardwalks around Lake Louise, or canoe on the surreal blue water of Moraine Lake. There are plenty of picnic areas and shorter hikes that make it easy to explore without taking on a full-day trek.

That said, Banff gets busy, especially in summer. Campsites, parking lots, and even some trailheads fill up fast. If you’re hoping to visit Moraine Lake, note that you’ll need to book a shuttle, often months in advance—there’s no public parking at the lake anymore.

Why it works for families: Easy-to-reach viewpoints, short hikes with big payoffs, and lots of options for getting outside—even if you’re not an experienced hiker.

Moraine Lake’s striking turquoise water glows beneath towering snow-dusted peaks in Banff National Park. Pine trees line the rocky shore, and a canoe floats on the mirror-like surface, capturing the serene wilderness of the Canadian Rockies.
Moraine Lake in Banff

12. Jasper National Park (Alberta)

Jasper feels a bit more laid-back than Banff, but it’s just as beautiful—with deep canyons, blue lakes, and wide-open spaces where you’re more likely to spot elk or bighorn sheep than crowds.

You can ride the SkyTram for big mountain views, take an easy walk through Maligne Canyon, or head to Lake Annette for a swim and picnic. It’s a great park for families who want that Rockies experience, but at a slightly slower pace.

There was a wildfire in 2024 that caused widespread damage but most areas have reopened for 2025. Some sections may still be recovering though, so it’s worth checking trail conditions before your visit.

Why it works for families: Wildlife sightings, easy-access lakes and canyons, and a more relaxed pace than other big mountain parks.

A vibrant turquoise lake reflects the surrounding snow-capped peaks in Jasper National Park, Alberta. Spirit Island, a small cluster of pine trees on a rocky islet, sits in the calm water framed by rugged mountain scenery under a bright blue sky.

13. Glacier National Park (British Columbia)

Glacier might not be as well known as Banff or Jasper, but it’s well worth the stop—especially if you’re driving the Icefields Parkway, which is often called one of the most scenic drives in the world. The park is about 390 km from Jasper and is known for snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and forested trails that feel like a hidden gem.

It’s also home to the world’s only inland cedar rainforest, which gives the landscape a completely different feel than its alpine neighbours. Families can hike to waterfalls, explore mossy trails, or check out remnants of the park’s railway history.

Why it works for families: A quieter stop with big scenery, easy forest walks, and a chance to experience a completely different side of the Rockies.

A two-lane road stretches straight toward towering, snow-covered peaks along the Icefields Parkway in the Canadian Rockies. Lush green forest lines both sides of the highway, framed by rugged mountains and a vibrant blue sky with wispy clouds.
This is the view along the Icefields Parkway

14. Grasslands National Park (Saskatchewan)

Grasslands doesn’t look like your typical national park—no mountains, no lakes—but that’s part of what makes it so special. It’s all about wide-open skies, rolling prairie, and a feeling of space you won’t find anywhere else in Canada.

You can see bison herds grazing in the distance, explore short trails through the badlands, or just take a scenic drive through the East Block. The park is also a Dark Sky Preserve, so if you’re staying overnight, the stargazing is incredible. And if you’ve got dinosaur fans in the family, this is the place—real fossils have been found in the area and some trails take you through ancient fossil beds.

Why it works for families: Easy trails, wide-open space for kids to roam, and a chance to experience a totally different kind of Canadian landscape.

Two bright red Adirondack chairs sit on a grassy ridge overlooking the vast, open prairie landscape of Grasslands National Park in Saskatchewan. Under a deep blue sky dotted with fluffy white clouds, the view stretches endlessly across rolling green and golden plains.

15. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve (British Columbia)

On the west coast of Vancouver Island, Pacific Rim feels like a completely different world—rainforest trails, long sandy beaches, and the kind of wild coastline that’s perfect for family adventures.

The park is made up of three main areas, but most families head to the Long Beach Unit between Tofino and Ucluelet. You can walk the beaches, explore tide pools, and take short hikes on boardwalk trails through thick coastal forest. If you’re lucky, you might even spot surfers or whales offshore.

Why it works for families: Beach walks, tide pools, and a chance to explore Canada’s coastal rainforest without needing to take on long hikes.

Waves gently lap against a rocky shore on a misty morning in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, British Columbia. A forested island rises in the distance while dense coastal forest stretches along the mainland, creating a tranquil, wild beachscape.

Planning Tips for Visiting Canada’s National Parks with Kids

  • Reserve early: Popular parks like Banff, Jasper, and Bruce Peninsula fill up quickly in summer—especially campsites and shuttles.
  • Pack for changing weather: Even in July, evenings can be cool in the mountains or near the coast. Layers are a good idea.
  • Bring bug spray and sunscreen: Forested and coastal parks like Kouchibouguac, Keji, and Point Pelee can get buggy. Ticks are also something to watch for in grassy areas—especially in Eastern Canada. We use Atlantik, which works well and comes with a tick removal kit – which has come in handy more than once.
  • Plan your meals ahead: Not all parks have food options nearby, so packing a cooler with snacks or lunch can make the day smoother.
  • Check for park updates: Trail closures, shuttle changes, or special programs often shift during the season. Visit the Parks Canada site before you go.
  • Pick up a Parka activity booklet: These free booklets are available at many visitor centres and are a fun way to keep kids engaged with nature. They’re available in English and French, and when kids hand them in before leaving, they’ll get a collectible Parks Canada tag for that park.
  • Bonus tip: The Canada Strong Pass offers free admission to all national parks until Sept. 2, 2025—a great excuse to explore somewhere new this summer.

My Top 3 National Parks for Families

It’s hard to choose, but if I had to pick just three parks for a summer trip with kids, these would be at the top of my list:

  1. Cape Breton Highlands (NS) – Coastal views, beautiful beaches, and a range of hiking trails with some of the best lookouts in Eastern Canada.
  2. Bruce Peninsula (ON) – Turquoise water, cliffside hikes, and a mix of adventure and swimming make this one a family favourite.
  3. Banff (AB) – Classic Rockies scenery with easy access to big views, gondola rides, and family-friendly trails.
A winding highway curves through lush, forested hills and valleys in Cape Breton Nova Scotia, with a mountain ridge rising in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
Driving the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning a big road trip or just looking for a new park close to home, Canada’s national parks are one of the best ways to spend time outside as a family. From coastlines and beaches to mountains and prairie skies, each park offers something different—and memorable.

And with free admission this summer through the Canada Strong Pass, it’s the perfect chance to discover a new favourite.

Two young children sit on a rocky outcrop with arms around each other, looking out over a deep blue lake and forested shoreline in Pukaskwa National Park. Above the image, bold text reads: “15 Amazing National Parks in Canada to Visit This Summer,” with the website “wanderlustwithkids.com” at the bottom.
A collage-style image featuring three scenic Canadian national parks with bold text in the center that reads: “15 of the Best National Parks in Canada (For Families).” The top image shows Moraine Lake in Banff National Park, the bottom left shows a boardwalk through grassy marshland, and the bottom right features red Adirondack chairs overlooking the prairie landscape in Grasslands National Park. The website “wanderlustwithkids.com” is displayed at the bottom.

Looking for more ideas? Check out these posts to help plan your next family adventure:

Erin Martin is the founder and sole writer for Wanderlust with Kids. Together with her twin boys, they have travelled to over 20 countries and five provinces within Canada. Erin is responsible for planning and facilitating all of her family's travel itineraries and adventures, whether locally or internationally. An explorer at heart, Erin aims to make any travel adventure kid-friendly and shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do, both in Canada and abroad.

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