Birdwatching at Parc national | Tourisme Petite Nation

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A vibrant spring

Parc national de Plaisance: a must-see destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers. It is the only national park in the Outaouais region. The mission of national parks is to ensure the conservation and enhancement of areas representative of a natural region, while ensuring their accessibility for educational and recreational purposes.

This 28 km² protected area is particularly renowned for the protection of its wetlands, which make up over 65% of its surface area. Along with the rainforest, wetlands are reputed to be the richest and most diverse ecosystems on the planet. They play an essential role in maintaining water quality.

With its bays, ponds and marshes, it is an ideal habitat for over 265 species of birds. Over 100 species can be seen or heard in a single day during the migratory period. Although birdwatching is possible all year round, spring stands out as the peak season for admiring the park's bird diversity. This small territory, rich in biodiversity, is undoubtedly one of Quebec's birdwatching hotspots.

A refuge for migratory birds

Located at the foot of the Canadian Shield, Parc national de Plaisance is an essential stopover for waterfowl on their spring migration. From March onwards, the return of the waterfowl marks the start of this natural spectacle. Geese, dabbling ducks, grebes and diving ducks make their appearance, followed in April by the impressive Canada geese, forming spectacular groupings.

From late April to the third week of May, it's the songbirds' turn to arrive, filling the park with their springtime melodies. In June, flycatchers and shorebirds join the natural concert.

Privileged observation sites

To take full advantage of this wealth of birdlife, several of the park's sites stand out:

The Zizanie-des-Marais and Marais-aux-Rubaniers trails are particularly popular with birdwatchers.
The Perras Tower, a nest-shaped structure, offers a unique view of the Perras Marsh and the Ottawa River.
The 6 km Migration Circuit includes a floating walkway and a footbridge on stilts in the Rubaniers marsh, offering total immersion in the world of birds.

Activities for enthusiasts

Parc national de Plaisance not only offers an exceptional setting, but also activities dedicated to birdwatching:

Ornithological workshops, organized in collaboration with the Club des ornithologues de l'Outaouais, will be held on May 24, 2025.
Guided hikes allow you to learn more about local species from passionate experts. Stay tuned to the website for the calendar.

Equipment rentals are also available, including rowboats, canoes, kayaks, bicycles for adults and children, and even binoculars!

Accommodations in Plaisance National Park

The park offers several accommodation options:

Camping: Parc national de Plaisance campgrounds offer sites with or without services (water and electricity).
Ready-to-camp: It is possible to book a ready-to-camp (Étoile and traditional).
Cottages: The 4-bedroom Maison Blais is also available for booking.
Yurts: Yurts are also available.

The accommodation is registered under number 1855556.

Reservations can be made online at sepaq.com.