The picnic area is located to the west of the main beach area. The Al Tweddle Picnic Area is named after Al and Helen Tweddle, the founders of the Friends of Petrie Island. The area contains a number of mature trees that provide welcome shade. There is also a beach suitable for small children. Picnic tables are available first-come-first served, but many also be reserved for a price. Area 2: Best For: Families with young children, nature lovers, and large groups wanting a quieter spot near trails and educational areas. Area 3: Best For: Larger group gatherings, beach visitors, and those seeking a shaded, peaceful setting near the water.
Approximately 40 picnic tables are in the picnic areas, available from May to October. The picnic tables are on a first-come first-served basis. It is possible to reserve table(s) for your group, which will also include a BBQ permit. You can also separately obtain a BBQ permit. Click links below. Please note that charcoal barbecues are NOT permitted because there is no place to safely dispose of the coals.
The Event Tent is the perfect space for large gatherings, birthday parties, events, and more. Located near the nature area and Picnic Area 2, it offers a spacious, sheltered setting with convenient access to nearby amenities. It is available for rent for full-days or half-days.
Here is a map showing the picnic areas. Picnic tables in areas 2 and 3 can be reserved for a price. Area 2: Best For: Families with young children, nature lovers, and large groups wanting a quieter spot near trails and educational areas. Area 3: Best For: Larger group gatherings, beach visitors, and those seeking a shaded, peaceful setting near the water.
Al Tweddle Picnic Area
Al Tweddle was the founder of the Friends of Petrie Island, and the driving force behinds the creation of the public beach and nature conservation area. Along with his wife Helen, they were early residents of Queenswood Heights in then-Cumberland Township. They were Cumberland’s Citizens of the Year in 2005.
As a non-profit conservation area, we take great pride in preserving the island’s natural beauty while allowing visitors to enjoy its peaceful surroundings. Please help us maintain this special environment by following these guidelines:
Respect Wildlife – Do not feed or disturb animals. Let them remain in their natural habitat.
Proper Waste Disposal – All garbage must be placed in animal-safe bins located throughout the island.
Do not leave garbage bags outside the bins, as wildlife will rummage through them.
Leave No Trace – Clean up all items before leaving to help maintain the area’s cleanliness.
Respect Other Visitors – Be mindful of noise levels and shared spaces so everyone can enjoy their time in nature.
We appreciate your cooperation in keeping this a clean, safe, and natural environment for future generations to enjoy.
Washrooms are located at the beach by the lifeguard station. Washrooms are open from the Victoria Day weekend in May to the Labour Day weekend in September. Portable washrooms are also available from early May til the end of September.
