Ontario's provincial parks are offering a range of special events and activities as part of Canada's Parks Day.
More than 60 provincial parks in Ontario will hold special
events on July 19:
 
- Arrowhead:  Enjoy a day canoe hike and evening canoe
program.
- Murphy's Point:  Attend an evening nature show celebrating the life of the beaver.
- Quetico: You be the judge at a historical talent show. 
- Samuel de Champlain: Join special guests Sciensational Snakes.
- Sandbanks: Talk with the animals and learn how they communicate.
First celebrated in 1990, Canada's Parks Day showcases parks and historic sites across the country.
"Ontario's provincial parks offer a range of fun family activities, including camping, hiking, canoeing and picnicking," said Donna Cansfield, Minister of Natural Resources, in a news release.
"I hope everyone will take part in Canada's Parks Day celebration to find out more about our world-renowned parks system."
"The natural beauty of our parks means they're great places for making lifelong memories," said Tourism Minister Peter Fonseca in the release. "Our parks are a key part of the province's tourism industry and help make Ontario an exciting outdoor and adventure destination."
Quick facts:
- There are 330 provincial parks in Ontario. One-hundred-and-fourteen of these are "operating" parks with visitor facilities. Nineteen are open all year long.
- Ontario's parks and protected areas cover over 9 million hectares, about 9 per cent of the province's area.
For a list of some of the Canada's Parks Day events taking place in provincial and national parks across the country, visit www.parksday.ca .
Visit the Ontario Parks website at www.ontarioparks.com to find out about special events, opening and closing dates, camping accommodations, park fees, and more.
To reserve a campsite, phone 1-888-ONT-PARK between 7 a.m. and 11  p.m., or book online 24-7.
To obtain a copy of the 2008 Ontario Parks Guide, phone 1-800-ONTARIO.
