About Petrie

Petrie Island

Petrie Island is a group of islands on the Ottawa River, just east of the Ottawa, Canada. It is owned and operated by the City of Ottawa. It offers active recreation through its public beaches, and nature-oriented activities through nature trails and events organized by the Friends of Petrie Island.

Recent History of Petrie Island

Learn about the 20th century history of Petrie Island.

History of Petrie

Go back 10,000 years to understand the history and geology of the islands, its use as a source of sand, and up to its acquisition by the City of Ottawa.

Activities offered at Petrie

There are many things to do at Petrie. Enjoy the public beaches, follow the nature trails, do some shore fishing, rent a boat, or join a tour for children.

Before you visit

We offer some suggestions about your first visit to the nature side of Petrie Island.

Picnic Area

We have a large number of shaded picnic tables that are available for use. Tables can also be reserved for groups.

Group Tent

We have a large tent that is available for group rental, with seating for 40 people.

Dispatches from the Island

For the past 30 years, visitors to Petrie Island have written accounts of their visits. These Dispatches show how much the island has changed over the years, and provide a record of the recent past.

Photos and Videos from Visitors

Some of our visitors are excellent photographers, and have shared their photo galleries with us.

See some videos and slide shows recorded by visitors to Petrie Island.

Aerial photographs from as far back as 1924.

Documents and Reports

We have collected a number of documents and reports related to the history of Petrie and its natural habitat.