7 Outdoor Locations for Video Production in the Ottawa Region

Your guide to video production around Ottawa


Video Production in Ottawa: Location Scouting

Ottawa and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of stunning outdoor locations perfect for filmmakers. From historic sites to natural wonders, these locations provide a rich backdrop for any production. Here are seven of the best outdoor spots for video production in Ottawa and beyond.


a couple embrace at the mill of kintail

© Carley Teresa Photography

1. The Old Mill at the Mill of Kintail

Almonte, Ontario

Located in Mississippi Mills, just west of Ottawa, the Mill of Kintail is a heritage site that offers an idyllic setting for filming. The Old Mill, nestled within a picturesque conservation area, provides a rustic, timeless backdrop. The surrounding woodlands, trails, and the Indian River flowing by make it an excellent location for capturing nature and history in one frame.


a long exposure of water falling down the locks at the Rideau canal in ottawa, the chateau Laurier is illuminated in the background

2. Rideau Canal Locks

Downtown Ottawa, Ontario

The Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that runs through downtown Ottawa, offering a blend of urban and natural scenery. The locks near the Parliament Buildings are particularly striking, with views of historic architecture, lush greenery, and the canal itself. The area is especially captivating in the fall, with vibrant foliage reflecting on the water.


water rushes through the dam at midday at hog's back falls in ottawa

© National Capital Commission

3. Hog’s Back Falls

Ottawa South, Ontario

Hog’s Back Falls, located within the Hog’s Back Park, is an impressive waterfall on the Rideau River. The falls provide a dynamic and dramatic setting for outdoor filming, with powerful water cascading over rugged rocks. The surrounding park offers additional natural settings, including walking paths and viewpoints, perfect for a variety of scenes.


a Cold War era computer sits on a desk at the diefenbunker

4. The Diefenbunker

Carp, Ontario

For those looking for a more unconventional outdoor location, the Diefenbunker in Carp, just outside Ottawa, is a unique option. This Cold War-era bunker, now a museum, is surrounded by expansive grounds that give an eerie, secluded atmosphere. The bunker’s exterior and the surrounding area can provide a stark, dramatic backdrop for more intense scenes.


two women sit on a bench and look at some ruins in rockcliffe park, ottawa

© National Capital Commission

5. The Rockeries and Ottawa River

Rockcliffe Park, Ontario

Rockcliffe Park offers panoramic views of the Ottawa River, the Gatineau Hills, and the surrounding landscapes. The park itself, with its mature trees and well-kept lawns, is ideal for a variety of outdoor shots. The nearby Rockcliffe Pavilion, a charming stone structure, adds a touch of elegance and history to any scene.


greco roman ruins at the Mackenzie king estate in Gatineau park, Quebec

© National Capital Commission

6. Mackenzie King Estate

Gatineau Park, Quebec

Situated in Gatineau Park, the Mackenzie King Estate is the former summer home of Canada’s 10th Prime Minister. The estate features beautiful gardens, ruins imported by King himself, and wooded trails. The site exudes an old-world charm, with its mix of manicured gardens and natural surroundings, making it a versatile location for period pieces or any project requiring a touch of historical elegance.


a woman does yoga outside at baxter conservation area

7. The Ruins at Baxter Conservation Area

Kars, Ontario

Located between Manotick and Kemptville, Baxter Conservation Area offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historic charm. The stone ruins, remnants of an old sawmill, provide an atmospheric backdrop for any production. With the Rideau River flowing nearby and lush forests surrounding the area, this spot offers versatile shooting options that capture both history and nature in one location.


a boat exits the locks in Ottawa's Rideau river

The bottom line...

These locations not only showcase the natural beauty and historical significance of the Ottawa region but also offer diverse settings to bring your creative vision to life. Whether you’re filming a period piece, a nature documentary, or a contemporary drama, these spots provide the perfect backdrop for your next project.


More about Mainspring Agency - Ottawa Video Production Company

Mainspring Agency is a top Ottawa video production company, providing video production services in Canada and the US. We’re a passionate team of storytellers and visual artists committed to delivering exceptional video content.

We approach each project with a blend of creativity and strategy, ensuring that every video not only looks stunning but also drives meaningful results. Our work is driven by a desire to elevate our clients’ brands, connect with audiences, and make a positive impact on the world.

Whether it’s corporate video production, testimonial advertising, or documentary production, Mainspring Agency consistently ranks among the top Canadian production companies.

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