Our designated picnic areas provide a perfect place to sit, relax, eat, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a shaded spot under mature trees, a peaceful area near the water, or a location with easy access to trails and beaches, we have options to suit your needs.
Picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis unless reserved in advance. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, as tables tend to be occupied quickly.
Pricing: $10 per table reserved for non-members, $5 for members. Become a member of the Friends of Petrie Island.
With each picnic table reservation, a BBQ permit is included (see details below). It is also possible to obtain a BBQ permit without reserving a table.
Picnic Area 2 – Family-Friendly & Nature-Centric
Located closest to the Nature Centre, event tent, FOPI office, trails, and the supervised beach, this area is ideal for families and groups with children.
- Number of Tables: 12-15 picnic tables (can be moved upon request).
- Shade & Setting: Options for tables in grassy areas under mature trees for shade or closer to the water for scenic views.
- Proximity to Amenities:
- 2-5 minute walk to restrooms and parking lots.
- Adjacent to a kids’ monkey bar play structure and open grassy space, making it great for active children.
- Best For: Families with young children, nature lovers, and large groups wanting a quieter spot near trails and educational areas.
Table Arrangement Requests: You may request to move tables together or specify a preferred area in the comments section of the reservation form.
Picnic Area 3 – Spacious & Beachside
For those planning a larger group gathering, this area provides more space, making it ideal for groups who want a designated spot with fewer nearby tables while still being in a public setting.
- Number of Tables: 8-10 picnic tables (adjustable upon request).
- Shade & Setting: Tables are nestled within a wooded area, providing natural shade and a more secluded picnic experience.
- Proximity to Amenities:
- Less than 2 minutes from the parking lot and restrooms.
- Closest picnic area to the bus stop, making it the most convenient option for those arriving by public transit.
- Close to the main beach – perfect for those planning to relax by the water.
- Easy access to the smaller supervised beach area for those looking for a quieter swimming spot.
- Best For: Larger group gatherings, beach visitors, and those seeking a shaded, peaceful setting near the water.
Table Arrangement Requests: Feel free to request specific seating preferences or table groupings in the comments section of the reservation form.
BBQ Permit Information
With the purchase of a picnic table reservation, a BBQ permit is included. It is also possible to obtain a BBQ permit without reserving a table; use the same form below.
- Only propane BBQs are allowed – Charcoal BBQs are strictly prohibited due to the lack of safe coal disposal areas and the fire hazard they pose.
- BBQ permits must be shown to bylaw officers upon request.
- Pricing:
- Included with a reserved picnic table.
- If not reserving a table, permits are $10 for non-members and $5 for members ([Join our membership here](insert link)).
- Permits are valid for one day only.
- BBQ Safety & Responsibility:
- Do not leave your BBQ unattended.
- Clean up after use and dispose of all waste in designated bins.
- Be mindful of nature and other visitors.
For additional information on BBQ permits, please contact us at inquiries@petrieisland.org
Respect the Environment
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.
Cancellation policy: Clients may cancel their bookings due to weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. This applies to bookings for tents, tables, BBQ permits, or programming events. If a cancellation is made in advance, clients are eligible to request a refund, which will have an administrative fee deducted. The fee for processing a refund is as follows: special event tent rentals $5 per tent reservation. All other reservations $1 per reservation item (e.g. the fee for cancelling a reservation for two tables would be $2.00). Refunds will be made in the same form as the initial payment. The fee will be deducted from the total amount of the refund.