Lac Philippe is a medium-sized lake located on the north side of Gatineau Park

Gatineau Park

Gatineau Park is a park located in the National Capital Region, in Quebec's Outaouais region, just north of Ottawa, Ontario. Administered by the National Capital Commission, the park is a 361 km² wedge of land to the west of the Gatineau River...

. Swimming is permitted on the beach and is even guarded by lifeguards

Lifeguard

A lifeguard supervises the safety and rescue of swimmers, surfers, and other water sports participants such as in a swimming pool, water park, or beach. Lifeguards are strong swimmers and trained in first aid, certified in water rescue using a variety of aids and equipment depending on...

. Campsites are available on the coast of Lac Philippe. Lac Philippe is approximately a 50 minute drive from Ottawa

Downtown Ottawa

Downtown Ottawa is the central area of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Like other downtowns it is the commercial and economic centre of the city. It is sometimes referred to as the Central Business District and contains Ottawa's financial district. It is bordered by the Ottawa River to the north, the...

. The lake is known for its family-friendly picnic areas and its clean water.