Non-operating parks do not have operating dates. Please note that activities and facilities may be temporarily unavailable or restricted for public health.
Availability of some facilities and activities may be restricted to specific areas of the park, may be ecologically dependent, or may be seasonally weather dependent.
Before you visit: check what facilities/activities are available and pack what you need (e.g. water, snacks, mask/face covering, and hand sanitizer). Postpone your visit if you have any symptoms of COVID-19 or have been asked to isolate.
When you visit: Continue to follow public health advice including practicing physical distancing by keeping at least two metres from others, wearing a face covering where required, when physical distancing may be a challenge or not possible and when entering indoor public spaces, and wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
This former channel of the Ottawa River consists mainly of an active sandspit that encloses Bellows Bay. A sandy point and beach ridges are also found here. Waterfowl, shorebirds, and turtles nest in this habitat which is also an important site for migrating birds. One of the most prominent and sensitive features of Westmeath Provincial Park are the sand dunes. The active dune system is located behind the beach, which borders the Ottawa River.
Park Facilities and Activities: There are no visitor facilities. However, hiking, boating, swimming and nature study may still be enjoyed. Access by land: From Trans Canada Hwy (17) exit North East on county road 7, turn left onto county road 21. From the junction of county roads 21 and 12, drive east 4.5 km along gravel access road. A park boundary sign is posted near a gated access road which enters the park. Vehicles may be parked near this entrance but must avoid restricting access to the gate. Users may only access the park by non-mechanized methods such as walking or biking. The use of ATV’s is prohibited. Access by water: Launching facilities are available in the town of Westmeath; launching fees may be applicable. The park may be accessed by navigating upstream along the Ottawa River.
Location: On Bellows Bay, Lower Allumette Lake (in the Ottawa Valley), about 25 km east of Pembroke. From the junction of county roads 21 and 12, drive east 4.5 km along unsurfaced access road.