News Release
June 13, 2025
The National Capital Commission (NCC) is pleased to announce the start of supervised swimming at Parent, la Pêche, O’Brien and Blanchet beaches in Gatineau Park. Now that summer activities at the NCC Bistros, River House, Westboro Beach and the new Dow’s Lake recreational dock have begun, it’s time to enjoy our region’s beautiful shorelines and waterways.
Swimming at Breton Beach and Leamy Lake Beach is temporarily on hold due to the current water quality levels (D status). New water samples are being tested, and swimming will be allowed at both beaches as soon as conditions permit.
Water quality at NCC beaches is tested weekly. Regular testing results throughout the summer are available on the NCC website.
Lifeguards are on duty daily, until September 1, 2025:
- From 10 am to 6 pm in Gatineau Park
- From 10 am to 7 pm at Leamy Lake Park
Visitors are asked to ensure their personal safety and stay in marked swimming areas.
Accessibility
The NCC is committed to improving accessibility at its beaches. All NCC beaches, except O’Brien Beach, are equipped with beach mats to improve mobility on the sand. In addition, Breton Beach at Philippe Lake, Blanchet Beach at Meech Lake and Leamy Lake Beach are equipped with beach wheelchairs.
Getting there
Free shuttle to Philippe Lake
In partnership with Transcollines, the NCC is offering free transportation on weekends and holidays to Meech Creek Valley and Philippe Lake (Breton Beach) until the end of October. For more information about shuttle schedules and itineraries, please visit our website.
Parking
Parking fees are now in effect at beach and boat launch parking lots and boat launch areas. Season permits are available for purchase online and at the Gatineau Park Visitor Centre. The NCC offers four hours of free parking at paid parking lots for vehicles displaying an accessible parking permit
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