Mooney's Bay Park

About Mooney's Bay Park

Mooney's Bay Park sits along the Rideau River in south-central Ottawa, about 15 minutes from downtown. It's one of the city's busiest parks in summer — a combination of supervised beach, enormous playground, sports facilities, and waterfront dining that makes it a natural gathering spot for families and athletes alike.

The Beach

Mooney's Bay Beach is a sandy beach on the Rideau River with supervised swimming from mid-June through late August. Lifeguards are on duty daily from noon to 7 PM during the summer season.

The beach has a gradual, shallow entry that's good for young children. Facilities include washrooms, outdoor showers, and change areas. An accessibility beach mat allows mobility device users to reach the shoreline.

Water quality is tested regularly by Ottawa Public Health. Results are posted on the city's website — check before swimming, as E. coli levels can occasionally close the beach after heavy rain.

Giver 150 Playground

The Giver 150 Park playground is one of the largest in Canada — a 4,600-square-metre play space shaped like the map of Canada, built in 2017 to celebrate Canada's 150th birthday. Each section represents a different province or territory with themed play structures.

Highlights include a Viking boat, a fur trading log cabin, an igloo-inspired rope climbing structure, and a wrecking ball swing. The playground works for a wide age range, from toddlers to older kids.

Sports and Recreation

The Terry Fox Athletic Facility within the park includes an 8-lane, 400-metre running track (international standard, lit for evening use), three premium grass sports fields, and bleacher seating for around 2,000 spectators.

The park also has beach volleyball courts (net rentals available mid-May to early September), tennis and pickleball courts (free), a boat launch for canoes and kayaks, and the Sue Holloway Fitness Park with outdoor exercise equipment.

Winter Activities

In winter, the park operates the Mooney's Bay Ski Centre — 5 km of groomed, lit cross-country ski trails for classic and skate skiing. Equipment rental and lessons are available on-site. Day passes are $3.75.

Tobogganing and snowshoeing are also available in the park.

Food and Dining

The Baja Burger Shack operates seasonally at the park, serving burgers, drinks, and bar food with waterfront views.

Getting There

• By Transit: Mooney's Bay Station (O-Train Line 2 / Trillium Line) is adjacent to the park
• By Car: Paid parking at 2950 Riverside Drive ($2/hour, 5-hour max, Victoria Day to Thanksgiving). Free parking in winter
• By Bike: Connected to the multi-use pathway network along the Rideau River