· CA

Petawawa

Petawawa, Ontario, Canada

Nestled in the stunning natural beauty of Ontario, Canada, Petawawa offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, rich history, and small-town charm. Located along the scenic Ottawa River, Petawawa is a haven for nature l…

#Military town#Outdoor activities#Canadian Forces Base#Nature trails#Petawawa River

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Petawawa.

Top Hotels in Petawawa

Top Flights to Petawawa

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Petawawa.

Tours

Centennial Park

Enjoy a relaxing day at Centennial Park, offering trails, picnic areas, and access to the beautiful Petawawa River.

Petawawa Heritage Village

A unique open-air museum showcasing the history and heritage of the Petawawa area with interactive exhibits and period buildings.

Outdoor

Petawawa River Whitewater Rafting

Experience thrilling whitewater rafting on the Petawawa River, known for its challenging rapids and beautiful scenery.

Algonquin Trail

Explore the Algonquin Trail, a multi-use trail perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Petawawa Point Beach

A popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and picnics beside the Ottawa River, offering sandy shores and clear waters.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Petawawa.

Currency

$ | CAD | Canadian Dollar

Population

14,600

Languages

English, English, French

Average weather

Petawawa

Jan

-6°-16°

Feb

-4°-15°

Mar

2°-9°

Apr

11°0°

May

19°6°

Jun

24°12°

Jul

26°15°

Aug

25°14°

Sep

20°9°

Oct

12°3°

Nov

4°-3°

Dec

-3°-11°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Petawawa.

What people love

Petawawa, located in Ontario, Canada, offers a variety of attractions and activities that make it a great destination for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Petawawa include:

Natural Beauty: Petawawa is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with lush forests, rivers, and lakes providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking.
Algonquin Provincial Park: Petawawa is located near Algonquin Provincial Park, one of Canada's most famous and beautiful parks. Visitors can explore the park's vast wilderness, spot wildlife, and enjoy various recreational activities.
Military History: Petawawa is home to Canadian Forces Base Petawawa, which has a rich military history. Visitors can learn about Canada's military heritage through museums, historic sites, and events in the area.
Outdoor Recreation: Petawawa offers a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including golfing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The area's natural beauty provides a picturesque backdrop for these activities.
Peaceful Environment: Petawawa is a peaceful and serene town, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can relax and unwind in the tranquil surroundings of Petawawa.

Overall, traveling to Petawawa offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, military history, and a peaceful environment, making it a great destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a relaxing getaway.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Petawawa, Ontario, Canada, include:

Limited public transportation: Petawawa is a smaller town with limited public transportation options, so getting around may be more challenging without a car.
Limited dining and entertainment options: While there are some restaurants and shops in Petawawa, the town may not offer as many dining and entertainment options as larger cities.
Seasonal weather extremes: Ontario can experience cold winters and hot summers, so travelers should be prepared for potential weather extremes depending on the time of year they visit.
Limited tourist attractions: Petawawa is known for its military base and outdoor activities, but it may not have as many tourist attractions or cultural sites compared to larger cities.
Remote location: Petawawa is located in a more remote area of Ontario, which may require longer travel times to reach compared to more centrally located destinations.

It's important to note that these cons may vary depending on individual preferences and travel priorities.

Petawawa is a town located in Renfrew County, Ontario, Canada. It is situated on the Ottawa River, approximately 150 kilometers northwest of Ottawa, the capital of Canada. The name "Petawawa" is derived from an Algonquin word that means "where one hears a noise like this," likely referring to the sound of the nearby rapids.

Early History:

Indigenous Presence: The area around Petawawa was originally inhabited by the Algonquin people. The Ottawa River was a significant route for trade and transportation for Indigenous groups long before European settlement.
European Exploration and Settlement: European explorers and fur traders began to traverse the area in the 17th and 18th centuries, with the river serving as a critical route to the interior of the continent.

Development and Military Influence:

Lumber Industry: In the 19th century, the lumber industry became the primary economic activity in the region, with the abundant forests around Petawawa being exploited for timber.
Canadian Forces Base Petawawa: The establishment of a military base in the early 1900s significantly influenced the development of the town. CFB Petawawa was officially opened in 1905 as a training camp, and it has grown to become one of Canada's largest military bases. The base has played a significant role in the local economy and has been a center for military operations and training.
World War I and II: During both World Wars, the base served as a major training ground for Canadian soldiers. It also hosted internment camps during World War I for enemy aliens.

Incorporation and Growth:

Municipal Development: Petawawa was incorporated as a township in 1865 and later as a town in 1997. The town has continued to grow, partially due to the presence of the military base.
Amalgamation: In 1997, the Town of Petawawa was amalgamated with the Township of Petawawa, resulting in the current municipality.

Notable Figures:

Military Leaders: Several notable Canadian military figures have been associated with CFB Petawawa, though specific names often vary over time as personnel are posted to and from the base.

Landmarks and Attractions:

CFB Petawawa: The base itself is a significant landmark, with a rich history of military training and operations.
Petawawa Heritage Village: This site offers a glimpse into the history of the area with exhibits and buildings representing life in the early 20th century.
Natural Attractions: The town is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including rivers, forests, and parks, which attract outdoor enthusiasts.

Recent Developments:

Community Growth: Petawawa continues to experience growth, driven by its strong community, military presence, and proximity to natural attractions.
Cultural Events: The town hosts various cultural and community events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of community among residents.

In summary, Petawawa's history is deeply intertwined with its military base, the natural environment, and its position along the Ottawa River. The town has evolved from its early days as a site for lumber trading to a vibrant community with a significant military presence.