Welcome Here

Petawawa is a town of about 18,000 people in the Ottawa Valley, located where the Petawawa River meets the Ottawa River. It is defined in large part by Canadian Forces Base Petawawa, one of the largest military installations in the country. The base brings a steady flow of military families and civilian workers, which gives the town a unique character: people here are used to welcoming newcomers, because new postings arrive every year.

Whether you are arriving on a military posting or moving to the area for other reasons, this page covers the practical details to help you settle in quickly.

Where to Look for Housing

Housing in Petawawa falls into two broad categories. If you are posted to the base, military housing (Residential Housing Units) is available through the Canadian Forces Housing Agency. Apply early, because wait lists can be long, especially for larger family units. Outside the base, the local market includes a mix of newer subdivisions, townhouses, and some older single-family homes.

For civilian housing, start on Realtor.ca and check Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace for rentals. Local Facebook groups, including groups specifically for CFB Petawawa families, are active with rental listings and housing recommendations. Nearby Pembroke (about 15 minutes west) has additional rental and purchase options, often at slightly lower prices.

Petawawa has grown steadily, so you will find newer housing stock in good condition. The area around Mohns Avenue and Petawawa Boulevard has most of the commercial services. For general guidance on finding a place in a smaller Ontario community, see our housing search guide.

Where to Find Local Events

Community life in Petawawa revolves around both the base and the town. The Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) at CFB Petawawa is a major hub. It runs programs, social events, playgroups, and support services for military families. Even if you are not military, some community events hosted on or near the base are open to the public.

The Town of Petawawa runs seasonal recreation programs, and the Civic Centre hosts hockey, skating, and community gatherings. In summer, Petawawa Point on the Ottawa River is a popular spot for swimming and picnics, and the town hosts Canada Day celebrations and outdoor movie nights. The Petawawa Heritage Village offers a look at local history and hosts events through the warmer months.

Check the Town of Petawawa website for event listings and recreation schedules. The Petawawa Public Library also posts programs for children, teens, and adults. Algonquin Park is only about 45 minutes west, which opens up a huge range of hiking, paddling, and camping from late spring through fall. For tips on getting connected in a new community, see our local events guide.

Where to Check Weather and Conditions

The Ottawa Valley has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures regularly dip below minus 20, and snow cover typically lasts from December through late March. Summers are warm and sometimes humid, with highs in the mid to upper 20s. The shoulder seasons are pleasant, with good fall colour in September and October thanks to the proximity of Algonquin Park.

For forecasts and alerts, use Environment Canada (search for Petawawa or Pembroke). Highway 17 is the main east-west route, connecting Petawawa to Pembroke and eventually Ottawa (about 1.5 hours east). Ontario 511 provides highway condition reports in winter. County roads are generally well-maintained, but blowing snow on open stretches can reduce visibility.

If you are coming from a milder part of the country, our winter prep guide will help you plan for the cold season.

Family and Everyday Info

Schools in Petawawa are served by the Renfrew County District School Board. Herman Street Public School and Valour School are the main elementary options, and Fellowes High School in Pembroke is the nearest secondary school. Catholic schooling is available through the Renfrew County Catholic District School Board, with schools in both Petawawa and Pembroke. French-language options exist but may require a longer bus ride.

For healthcare, the nearest hospital is the Pembroke Regional Hospital, about 15 minutes away. It has a full emergency department and a range of outpatient services. Finding a family doctor in the region can be a challenge. Register with Health Care Connect through ontario.ca to get on the list. Military families have access to the base medical clinic for serving members, with referrals for dependents.

The Petawawa library, the Civic Centre arena, and the local trail network along the river give families plenty of options for everyday activities. Grocery shopping, banking, and other services are available along Petawawa Boulevard. For a step-by-step look at what to handle when moving with a family, our family moving checklist has you covered.