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News Release

June 16, 2023

NCC beaches in Gatineau Park and Leamy Lake are now open for the summer season.

In Gatineau Park, from June 16 to September 4, lifeguards will be on duty from 10 am to 6 pm at the O’Brien, Blanchet, Breton, Parent and La Pêche Lake beaches. Lifeguards will be on duty at Leamy Lake beach from 10 am to 7 pm on the same dates. Smith Beach is closed for the season due to the rehabilitation of the Philippe Lake campground.

It should also be noted that given staff shortages, some beaches may be unsupervised at certain times. Various facilities such as washrooms, change rooms and picnic tables will be available to visitors.

We urge the public to be cautious and keep personal safety in mind. Swimming is permitted only within the swimming areas marked by buoys.

Water sample testing results

Water sample tests taken on June 12, 2023 at the following beaches meet bacteriological standards for swimming.

Meech Lake

  • O’Brien Beach: Class A (excellent for swimming)
  • Blanchet Beach: Class A (excellent for swimming)

Philippe Lake

  • Breton Beach: Class B (good for swimming)
  • Parent Beach: Class B (good for swimming)

La Pêche Lake Beach: Class A (excellent for swimming)

Leamy Lake Beach: Class A (excellent for swimming)

    During the swimming season, beaches are tested every week for bacteriological water quality. The results are updated on the NCC's website.

    Open water swimming

    Open water swimming is permitted at Meech and Leamy lakes from middle of May to middle of October. The NCC asks the public to follow open water swimming safety measures and instructions at all times. No lifeguards are on duty in the designated open water swimming areas. Engaging in this activity is at your own risk.

    Parking fees

    From June 16 to September 4, 2023, there is a fee to park at the following beach and boat launch parking lots:

    • Meech Lake (P11, P12, P13)
    • Philippe Lake
    • La Pêche Lake
    • Leamy Lake

    Parking fees at Mackenzie King Estate apply from June 16 to October 22, 2023.

    Hourly parking passes are available at all times, and can be purchased at the meters located at the parking lot entrance gates.

    Season parking passes, for access to all beach parking lots in Gatineau Park, Leamy Lake Park and the Mackenzie King Estate, are available for purchase at the Visitor Centre.

    Boat launches

    Gatineau Park has three boat launches for non-motorized boats. 

      Accessibility

      The NCC offers four hours of free parking for vehicles displaying an accessible parking permit at the paid parking lots.

      For swimming, Philippe Lake’s Breton Beach is the most accessible for people with limited mobility. A paved path with a gentle slope leads to the beach and a wheelchair ramp. A beach wheelchair is available upon request at the lifeguard station.

      Groups

      Groups wishing to visit Gatineau Park’s beaches should contact the Gatineau Park Visitor Centre prior to their visit. It is not possible to reserve the beach or parking space for groups, but our team will ensure that you receive important information and tips for the best possible experience. To notify the Visitor Centre, call 819-827-2020.

      Links

      Media Information

      Clémence Grevey
      Media Relations
      613-859-9596
      clemence.grevey@ncc-ccn.ca