Picnicking & swimming
La Mauricie National Park
Just a few steps from the Parkway or a few strokes of the oars, a multitude of beaches and lakes are waiting just for you. Please note that there is no lifeguard service available, that glass containers are not allowed and that docking on the islands is prohibited.
In addition to the beaches, several picnic areas are located along the Parkway. You will be able to stop there to have a bite to eat, depart on a hiking trail or simply enjoy the lovely vistas. It’s a great way to discover less crowded areas!
In the summer season, some areas, such as the Shewenegan and Lac-Édouard picnic areas may be full. You will then be redirected to another area in the park. Plan ahead and arrive early!
These are the four most popular picnic areas:
Shewenegan
Near the Saint-Mathieu entrance is the Shewenegan picnic area. This is where you will cross the iconic “M” bridge and cool off in the Cascades.
Available facilities
- Boat rental office
- During opening hours, you will find commonly used products (mosquito repellent, fire starter, charcoal, etc.)
- Washroom facilities
- Phone booth
- Beach
- Picnic tables
- Hibachis
- Boat launch
- Les Cascades, Les Falaises and Ruisseau Brodeur trails nearby
There is no food service. Please bring your own food and beverages prior to your arrival. Water refilling stations are available at the visitor reception centres, at the camping loops and at the Rivière à la Pêche Service Centre.
Hours of operation
May 18 to June 22
- Friday and Saturday: 9 am to 7 pm
- Sunday to Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm
June 23 to September 4
- Every day: 8 am to 8 pm
September 5 to October 9
- Friday and Saturday: 9 am to 7 pm
- Sunday to Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm
Esker
This picnic area, located near the Saint-Mathieu entrance, is noticeable for its more private aspect. On the shores of Lake Wapizagonke, it offers several water accesses, through small beaches and a dock.
This is where the Tourbière interpretation trail is located. Can you identify carnivorous plants?
Available facilities
- Washroom facilities
- Small beach
- Picnic tables
- Hibachis
- Dock
- La Tourbière interpretation trail
Wapizagonke
The Wapizagonke picnic area is located north of the lake bearing the same name. For many, its small beach is the starting point for the iconic hike to Waber Falls.
Available facilities
- Boat rental office
- During opening hours, you will find commonly used products (mosquito repellent, fire starter, charcoal, etc.)
- Washroom facilities
- Picnic tables
- Hibachis
- La Terrasse trail nearby
There is no food service. Please bring your own food and beverages prior to your arrival. Water refilling stations are available at the visitor reception centres, at the camping loops and at the Rivière à la Pêche Service Centre.
Hours of operation
May 18 to June 22
- Friday and Saturday: 9 am to 7 pm
- Sunday to Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm
June 23to September 4
- Every day: 8 am to 8 pm
September 5 to October 9
- Friday and Saturday: 9 am to 7 pm
- Sunday to Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm
Lac Édouard
Located halfway between the two entrances, the Lac Édouard picnic area offers something for every member of the family. A beach, children’s playground, volleyball court, shaded areas for a bite to eat, there’s something for everyone!
Available facilities
- Boat rental office
- During opening hours, you will find commonly used products (mosquito repellent, fire starter, charcoal, etc.)
- Washroom facilities
- Picnic tables
- Hibachis
- Boat launch
- Beach
- Playground for children, including sandbox with toys
- Beach volleyball court
- Mini soccer nets
- Lac Étienne trail
There is no food service. Please bring your own food and beverages prior to your arrival. Water refilling stations are available at the visitor reception centres, at the camping loops and at the Rivière à la Pêche Service Centre.
Hours of operation
May 18 to June 22
- Friday and Saturday: 9 am to 7 pm
- Sunday to Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm
June 23 to September 4
- Every day: 8 am to 8 pm
September 5 to October 9
- Friday and Saturday: 9 am to 7 pm
- Sunday to Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm
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