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Ottawa is a gorgeous city that’s a wonderful place to live or visit. There are many things to see and do, which can include a day at the beach with your best friend.
It’s important to ensure that any public place you plan to spend time at is dog-friendly. To make your life a little easier, we’ve compiled this list of 13 swimming holes and beaches that will welcome you and your dog.
We’ve divided our list into off-leash and on-leash categories, as some locations will allow your dog to visit, but they need to remain on a leash at all times. But we hope you’ll discover some new places to check out and find the perfect swimming spot that both you and your dog will love!
Top 13 Dog Friendly Beaches in Ottawa
Off-Leash Dog-Friendly Beaches in Ottawa
1. Beryl Gaffney Park
Dogs can play and swim in the water along the Rideau River.
96 acres of park and woodlands.
Dog-friendly trails for hiking, birding, and snowshoeing.
The park is off-leash but remember to pick up after them, and they should be on their best behaviour.
2. Brewer Park
Dogs can access the water in the Rideau River.
The park is on the north banks of the Rideau River.
Lots of activities with hockey arenas, baseball, and soccer fields.
Excellent playground for children.
Skating rink in the winter.
3. David Bartlett Park
Off-leash dog park and swimming along the Rideau River.
35 acres of space for dogs to run in.
Trails for walking and hiking.
No fences or gates, so keep a close eye on your dog.
Also, watch your dog and keep them leashed when near the lock and dam, as there can be strong currents.
4. Dutchie’s Hole Park
A great haven found in downtown Ottawa.
Sandy beach for dogs to hang around and splash in the river.
Not exactly a beach, but dogs can get in the water away from the boats.
There’s no rule requiring dogs to be on a leash, but it’s a busy area, so it’s recommended.
Check out the annual Jock River Canoe Race every April.
Fishing is popular here, and parking is free.
6. Kennedy-Craig Forest
Large forest area makes for some beautiful hiking
Again, not a beach, but Barrhaven Creek crosses the hiking trail a number of times, and dogs can enjoy some splashing about.
Most of the forest is off-leash except for areas close to residences.
Lovely little bridges are found throughout.
Some trails are more challenging than others, which you could bear in mind if you have a senior dog or one with mobility issues.
7. Lemieux Island
The park has a river for your dog to splash around in.
The park is off-leash except close to the water plant.
Scenic views of the city and Prince of Wales Bridge.
Private area for dogs (except for the water plant, of course).
8. Stanley Dog Park
Unfortunately, dogs aren’t allowed on the main beach, but there’s a smaller gravel beach where dogs can play.
Dogs can be off-leash in the park for the most part, except on pathways or around the play area and wading pools.
Biking and walking trails throughout.
Scenic views of Minto Bridge, waterfalls, and the river.
On-Leash Dog-Friendly Beaches in Ottawa
9. Baxter Conservation Area
Dogs aren’t allowed on the main beach, but there is an area downstream where they can swim.
Dogs must remain on a leash in the conservation area.
Features over 5 km of trails through wetlands, meadows, and forests.
The beach is considered one of the cleanest beaches along the Rideau.
You’ll need to pay a parking fee, which only takes credit cards or coins.
10. Constance Bay
There are two beaches between Constance and Buckham’s Bay that dogs can swim in.
Dogs must be on a leash at both beaches.
Lots of activities such as water skiing, canoeing, hiking, and cycling.
The Constance Bay beach allows horses.
There are no lifeguards, so keep an eye on your dog.
11. Quigley Hill Boat Launch
There isn’t a leash law here, but it’s recommended to keep your dog on a leash.
Small beach is used to launch boats, and dogs can access the water here.
Small space but offers lovely views of the Ottawa River.
Picnic tables and fallen logs offer places to sit.
Bear in mind that the access to the water is steep and rocky, so use caution.
12. Remic Rapids Park
You and your dog can access the Ottawa River in the park.
Your dog must be on a leash at all times.
This park is known for its rock sculptures just held together by balance by artist John Felice Ceprano.
The groomed Kichi Sibi winter trail runs through the park for cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and walkers.
Features a bistro in the summer months in case you need a bite to eat.
13. Strathcona Park
It’s a bit of a long walk to get there, but there are small beaches for dogs to play on.
On-leash only along the river pathway, but dogs aren’t allowed in the rest of the park.
Lovely pedestrian bridge and cycling paths.
Free parking and street parking are available.
Nice spot for a picnic.
Conclusion
There are many parks to choose from in the beautiful city of Ottawa. And while there aren’t a lot of beaches, there is still the opportunity for your dog to cool off and play in the main rivers that border these parks.
Remember to bring supplies like poop bags to clean up after your dog, as well as plenty of water, snacks, and a leash.
We hope our article has highlighted several parks and that you’ll find the time to visit them in the coming summer months.
Featured Image Credit: LyAn Voyages, Unsplash
Written by
Kathryn was a librarian in a previous lifetime and is currently a writer about all things pets. When she was a child, she hoped to work in zoos or with wildlife in some way, thanks to her all-consuming love for animals. Unfortunately, she’s not strong in the sciences, so she fills her days with researching and writing about all kinds of animals and spends time playing with her adorable but terribly naughty tabby cat, Bella. Kathryn is hoping to add to her family in the near future – maybe another cat and a dog.…Read more
