The name of Petawawa originates from a local Algonquin language word, biidaawewe, meaning "where one hears a noise like this".

In the late 19th century, the area was surveyed and settled by emigres from Scotland, Ireland and Germany.

Today, it is one of Canada's largest ground forces bases with members deployed throughout the world on various missions supporting the United Nations in peacekeeping or the War on Terror.

Situated across the Ottawa River from the Laurentian Mountains, and east of Algonquin Park, Petawawa is a favourite stop for outdoor enthusiasts, anglers, hikers, canoers, and kayakers.

In addition to the primary urban core of Petawawa, the town also comprises the communities of Black Bay, Kramer Subdivision, Laurentian View, McGuire, Petawawa Point, Pine Meadows, Pine Ridge, Pinehurst Estates and Riverview.

Petawawa has a humid continental climate (Köppen Dfb) with long, cold, snowy winters and warm summers.