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. Pets are not allowed on any of the park’s beaches.
In addition to the beaches, several picnic areas are located along the Parkway. You will be able to stop there to eat your lunch or a meal from the Shewenegan Pizzeria. Please do not share it with wildlife for everyone's safety. You can also depart on a hiking trail or simply enjoy the lovely vistas. It’s a great way to discover less crowded areas!
Plan your visit before coming to the park by checking the parking lots status 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 or in the Wapizagonke Lake. It's the ideal place to have fun with young children, thanks to the nearby services. You can also buy your lunch or convenience items at the Shewenegan Pizzeria. Hiking enthusiasts can choose between Les Cascades Trail (easy) or Les Falaises Trail (intermediate). To avoid a bear encounter, stay on established trails, make noise while walking and watch for area closures and bear warnings.
Available facilities
- Boat and equipment rental
- Shewenegan Pizzeria
- Washroom facilities
- Beach
- Picnic tables
- Soccer mini goals
- Hibachis
- Boat launch
- Les Cascades, Les Falaises and Ruisseau Brodeur trails nearby.
Boat and equipment rental opening hours
May 23 to June 19
- Friday and Saturday: 9 am to 7 pm
- Sunday to Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm
June 20 to August 31
- Every day: 8 am to 8 pm
September 1 to October 13
- 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 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
- Washroom facilities
- Small beach
- Picnic tables
- Hibachis
- 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.)
- Washroom facilities
- 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 at the camping loops and at the Rivière à la Pêche Service Centre.
Boat and equipment rental opening hours
May 23 to June 19
- Friday and Saturday: 9 am to 7 pm
- Sunday to Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm
June 20 to August 31
- Every day: 8 am to 8 pm
September 1 to October 13
- 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 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.
Boat equipment rental opening hours
May 23 to June 19
- Friday and Saturday: 9 am to 7 pm
- Sunday to Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm
June 20 to August 31
- Every day: 8 am to 8 pm
September 1 to October 13
- Friday and Saturday: 9 am to 7 pm
- Sunday to Thursday: 9 am to 5 pm
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