Picnicking and swimming
La Mauricie National Park
Just steps from the Parkway or a few paddle strokes away, a multitude of beaches, lakes, and picnic areas allow you to grab a bite, paddle, go hiking, and enjoy pleasant viewpoints.
Map of picnic areas
Download the map of picnic areas in printable version. (PDF, 985 KB)
These are the four most popular picnic areas. They are open at the same time as the Saint-Mathieu entrance and the entire Parkway.
Shewenegan
The “M” bridge and the section under it at the Shewenegan Picnic Area are closed to the public until further notice for safety reasons. During summer 2026, basin 2 of Wapizagonke Lake is accessible from the Boat and Equipment Rental Centre at the Shewenegan Picnic Area (portage of about 400 m). Visitors must go to the Cascades via Les Falaises Trail (moderate level) and then Les Cascades Trail (easy level). A temporary solution for accessing the Cascades from the Shewenegan Picnic Area will be put in place during the summer.
Near the Saint-Mathieu entrance is the Shewenegan Picnic Area. This is where visitors can cool off in the Cascades or in the Wapizagonke Lake. It's the ideal place to have fun with young children, thanks to the nearby services. Hiking enthusiasts can choose between Les Cascades Trail (easy) or Les Falaises Trail (moderate).
Available facilities
- Boat and equipment rental
- Inclusive sanitary facilities
- Beach
- Hibachis
- Boat launch
- Outdoor and indoor picnic tables (some are located under a shelter accessible when the Saint-Mathieu entrance is open)
- Les Cascades, Les Falaises and Ruisseau Brodeur trails nearby
Food service
The team from the renowned Auberge Saint-Mathieu brings you quality cuisine even when camping! The vast experience of chef Samy Benabed and his cohorts will take your lunch hour to the next level with a wide variety of fine wood-oven pizzas and healthy snacks. Visitors can also buy miscellaneous products if they’ve forgotten something in their kit. All of these goods are available for purchase during the food service hours of operation in the summer season.
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 access points to the water requiring a short portage. Esker Parking Lot is the ideal place for cyclists to pedal along the Parkway.
This is where the Tourbière interpretation trail is located. Can you identify carnivorous plants?
Available facilities
- Inclusive sanitary facilities
- Small beach
- Picnic tables (some are located under a shelter)
- Hibachis
- Hiking trails, including the 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 and equipment rental
- During opening hours, you will find commonly used products (mosquito repellent, fire starter, charcoal, etc.)
- Inclusive sanitary facilities near Boat and equipment rental
- Picnic tables
- Hibachis
- La Terrasse trail nearby
There is no food service at this picnic. Please bring your own food and beverages prior to your arrival. Water refilling stations are available on site, in the camping loops, and at the Rivière à la Pêche Service Centre.
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 and equipment rental
- 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 at this picnic. Please bring your own food and beverages prior to your arrival. Water refilling stations are available at the camping loops and at the Rivière à la Pêche Service Centre.
Useful information:
- The water at the beaches is not tested.
- No lifeguards are available.
- Glass containers are not allowed on the beaches.
- Docking on the islands is prohibited.
- Pets are not allowed on any of the park's beaches.
- For everyone's safety, feeding wildlife is prohibited.
- Never leave food, coolers, food or drink containers—full or empty— or cooking equipment unattended or within reach. Store them in the trunk of your vehicle when not in use.
- To avoid a bear encounter, it is important to stay on established trails, make noise while walking and watch for area closures and bear warnings.
- Trash must be disposed of in the garbage bins.
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