Parc national de Plaisance
The only SEPAQ national park in the Outaouais region, about an hour east of Ottawa on a series of islands in the Ottawa River. A birdwatcher's paradise with 250+ species — the highest count in Quebec's national park network. Floating boardwalk trails, 150 campsites, ready-to-camp units, and yurts. Open late April to mid-October.
Features
About Parc national de Plaisance
Parc national de Plaisance is the closest SEPAQ national park to Ottawa — about an hour east on the Quebec side. The park sits on a series of islands and peninsulas in the Ottawa River near the town of Plaisance, protecting a rich wetland ecosystem where the Petite Nation River meets the Ottawa.
What makes it special is the birdlife. With over 250 documented species, it has the highest bird count of any national park in Quebec. It's also home to Quebec's highest concentration of beaver colonies and several freshwater turtle species.
Camping
The park has roughly 150 campsites plus alternative accommodations:
- Campsites — A mix of unserviced sites and sites with water and electricity
- Ready-to-camp units (prêt-à-camper) — 27 units, with new Étoile units being added in the Les Buttes and La Cédrière sectors
- 3 yurts
- Maison Blais — A 4-bedroom house within the park
Things to Do
Birdwatching
The park's main draw. Over 250 bird species have been recorded across the wetlands, marshes, and forested islands. Spring migration season is particularly impressive.
Hiking & Biking
A 40 km trail network including:
- Zizanie-des-Marais — A floating boardwalk trail over the marshes, one of a kind in Quebec's park network
- Sentier de la Serpentine — Views of the Ottawa River
- Boucle du Littoral (Coastline Loop) — ~15 km, 3.5–4 hours for a full-day hike
Paddling & Fishing
Canoe, kayak, SUP, and rowboat rentals available at the Discovery & Visitors Centre. Fishing is permitted on both the Ottawa River and the Petite Nation River — over 50 fish species inhabit the waters.
Swimming
Beach access within the park.
Visitor Information
- Season: April 25 – October 19 (2026)
- Fees: SEPAQ daily access fee applies on top of camping fees. Check current rates at SEPAQ
- Reservations: Book online at SEPAQ
- Contact: 819-427-5350 or 1-800-665-6527
Getting There
- From Ottawa: Head east across to the Quebec side, take QC-148 or Route 50 toward Plaisance. About 48 km / 1 hour
- Address: 1001, chemin des Presqu'îles, Plaisance, QC J0V 1S0
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Details
1001, chemin des Presqu'îles, Plaisance, QC J0V 1S0
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