The best beach camping in Cape Breton Island

·

On Cape Breton Island, you'll find over a dozen beach camping options that put you steps from saltwater and sand. Rates start at $25 a night, with the average coming in around $35. Most sites let you build a campfire, bring your dog, and have access to toilets—essentials after a day spent fishing, hiking, or catching waves. Local favourites include Unique Cabot Trail Campground (26 reviews), perched close to the coast, Aspy Acres (11 reviews), and Fred's Place (2 reviews). Expect unfussy setups and easy access to the best shoreline on the island. Bring layers—the wind can pick up fast.

91% (74) 18 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Cape Breton Island

Live Life In Tents Campground

1. Live Life In Tents Campground

99%
(61)
15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Baddeck, NS
This was one of the original homesteads in the Margarees. There was an old sawmill on site which was used to build the house and barn. It was sold to a man who started renovations for a summer house but ended up listing it for sale. I purchased it and completely renovated the 100-year-old house. Shortly after, my brother and I started an outfitting company with no plan of building a campground, but in 2017 we saw a great opportunity for building something unique. We wanted to keep a backwoods camping feel, but yet create it around a hostel-inspired environment. We launched June 1, 2018 and are in full swing now. We look forward to meeting you and will help you out in any way to make your trip here something to remember. Adventure awaits at this eco-camping hostel offering a natural setting, overlooking a picturesque valley. This location offers close to off-grid camping with a twist of comfort; furnished Glamping tents, sleeping up to 4 people per tent on a queen bed with twin camping beds for extra guests. Cooking gear, bedding, and towels are provided. Each tent, located at this eco-hostel, has its own campfire pit, with a solar outdoor shower on site and beautiful views of the river valley.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$35
 / night
Great Bras D'Or Waterside Camp

2. Great Bras D'Or Waterside Camp

100%
(1)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Ross Ferry, NS
Nicely treed with grassy clearings, this waterfront property has a pebble beach, with stunning views down the Great Bras D'Or Channel. At the beach, there’s swimming and fishing, shell searching, rock-skipping. Walk 100m down the beach to the Ross Ferry Marine Park where you’ll find shaded walking-trails, an outdoor fitness gym, and a jungle-gym with a slide for kids. Anyone who feels bold enough can jump off the wharf! There is also a boat launch that can be used (for a small donation to the Ross Ferry Marine Park. Guests of all campsites will have communal access to a small cabin close to the road in SUMMER TIMES ONLY. The interior of the cabin and the water are shut down in September. The cabin has power and water (AC cord can be run from the exterior outlet, and a hose can be attached to the exterior tap). Guests are free to use the small basic kitchen, bathroom, large deck and small living room, but the cabin is not for sleeping. There is no regular cleaning service, so guests are responsible for keeping the communal spaces clean.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
CA$35
 / night
The Dancing Moose Vacation rentals

3. The Dancing Moose Vacation rentals

100%
(3)
4 sites · Lodging · Englishtown, NS
The Dancing Moose Vacation rentals, (formally the Dancing Moose Cafe) is a beautiful 3.5 acre ocean front, (rock) beach accessible property, located right on the Cabot Trail, one of the most scenic routes in the world! We are located on the east side (sunrise) on the Cabot Trail, about 15 minutes from Ski Cape Smokey, 25 minutes from the entrance of the Cape Breton Highland National Park with over 35 well maintained hikes. The on site restaurant, The Dancing Moose Cafe, is changing its activity starting this year (2025) and will only be open, serving breakfast for guests that stay on the property. Full a la carte breakfast is available, including our "famoose" Dutch Pannekoek. Breakfast is optional and not included in the rental fee. There are 4 different kind of vacation rentals on the property, The Sleeping Moose Cottage (1x), The Zzzz Moose Camping Cabins (3x) The ZzzzMoose 2.0 Camping Cabin (1x) and the Birch Plain Tower 1x). The Sleeping Moose has a minimum of 2 nights. All other rentals can be booked for 1 night, or more of course. Except for the Birch Plain Tower al our vacation rentals are pet friendly. (as long as you see this message it means we are working on setting up the rental units)
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$91
 / night
Bunkies on Bras d'Or

4. Bunkies on Bras d'Or

1 site · Lodging · River Denys, NS
Rustic Glamping Retreat – Private Beach, Forest Escape & Sauna Access Experience effortless glamping in nature’s embrace. Nestled in a serene forest setting, this cozy retreat features two charming loft bunkies—each with a queen-size mattress in the upper loft—plus a small leather futon on the main level. A modular fold-out dining table and chairs offer flexible indoor dining or workspace options. Bunkie lofts are high up with access by sturdy wooden ladder (if you have mobility issues, it is not suitable). There are small leather futons and extra bedding on the main floor of the bunkie as a sleeping option. NOTE - VERY IMPORTANT Bunkies are located on top a hill at an elevation. PARKING is located on the beach front landing below down a gravel road with max parking for 2 cars. Off-grid comfort with eco-conscious touches: • Refresh in the outdoor shower (with hot and cold water) • Use the eco-friendly incinerating toilet and composting toilet and handwashing stations • Stay cozy with clean linens, blankets, and towels provided (including dog towels upon request) • Light your space with LED lanterns and flashlights, and recharge with a solar panel + 12V power pack • Rain barrel with water for washing dishes Camp cooking made easy: Cabana with prep area and storage! Enjoy access to a BBQ grill, Propane stoves, cooking utensils, dishes, coolers, and complimentary coffee, tea, cooking oils, basic spices. Adventure-ready amenities: You’ll have full access to the private property and secluded beach, on beautiful Bras d’Dor saltwater lake, complete with: • Kayaks • Paddle boat • 4 adult life jackets Water shoes are recommended for your shoreline adventures. Unplug and unwind: While there is no Wi-Fi at the bunkies, you’ll have solid mobile data coverage—and Wi-Fi access is available just 600 feet away at the owner’s main property. Data is available but can be spotty. Additional features: • Wood-fired sauna access (located at the owner’s property) • Seasonal firepit (please respect provincial fire bans—penalties apply) • Pet-friendly—your furry companions are welcome! • Parking at beachfront down the hill from the bunkies—luggage assistance available via RTV Let nature’s soundtrack soothe you—from the gentle flow of a nearby waterfall to the call
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$144
 / night
Aspy Acres

5. Aspy Acres

98%
(21)
5 sites · Tents · Baddeck, NS
Discover serenity at Aspy Acres, a tranquil campsite near Aspy Bay. Unwind by the creek, explore nearby White Point beach, and relish the privacy of secluded sites amidst lush trees and the sound of the babbling Smelt Brook. Ideal basecamp for Northern Cape Breton adventures. Book now for an unforgettable, rejuvenating camping experience.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
CA$25
 / night
Island Point Resort

6. Island Point Resort

3 sites · RVs · Southside Boularderie, NS
Island Point Resort is perfectly suited for: Family Vacations, Fishing or Boating. Getaways Retreats Quiet vacation spot to unwind. This peaceful resort tucked in on the shore of the Little Bras d’Or at Island Point Harbor. We are located 25min from Newfoundland ferry terminal. We are mainly a seasonal RV resort with some rental cabins. We have plenty of parking, boat ramp and small dock. Swimming raft and moorings for boats. Feel free to reach out to Jon at 902-322-1824 via call or text for more information.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
CA$50
 / night
Where Eagles Soar

7. Where Eagles Soar

100%
(1)
3 sites · RVs · Kempt Road, NS
We are located 25 minutes from the causeway connecting mainland Nova Scotia to our beautiful Cape Breton Island home. We have 2 properties, at our home site we are on hill overlooking Upper MacMillin Lake in the village of Kemp Road. Our 2nd property which is still being developed but available is a lot located on River Inhabitants near Cleveland. If you kayak/canoe this river will take you out to the ocean to explore the islands. we recently installed electricity and an outhouse and will have running water coming in September 2025. The amazing Cabot Trail is a day trip from our locations. Enjoy great kayaking/canoeing from our locations! **Nova Scotia does have a website to view for indication of fires to be allowed for the present day. Please check every day as fines are up to $25000.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
CA$30
 / night
Dome Yurt By The Ocean

8. Dome Yurt By The Ocean

2 sites · Lodging · Baddeck, NS
Glamping at its best: Tthe magical cozy River Inhabitants Basin and the breathtaking panoramic view from this elevated dome yurt facing the deep blue glittering ocean is the #1 getaway for affordable, relaxing, peaceful holidays, kayaking, hiking, biking, swimming, reading, writing, loving Rent our dome yurt in high season 2023 for 99 CAD per night with 2 (max 4 if you bring your own sleeping gear), plus final cleaning $80.00 plus 15% tax. As the river mouth and basin with lots of uninhabited islands offers a lot of things to do we suggest you to combine water sports adventure with your stay. An ocean kayak will be provided if you stay for a week or longer. We offer sailing tours, kayaking and fishing. Although we understand the desire to see as many places as possible when on vacation, we highly recommend people to stay with us for several days. Let your mind come to rest and get a good sleep on real good spring mattresses. ! We would love to be the place where you come to rest. Deep dive into nature and forget the day to day hustle for a while! Writers, painters, artists (like your host) find the inspiration and recharging for new productivity. Internal curtains at the huge windows enhance the impression that this has traditional-style solid HydroTex walls yet can be rolled up for views out and to the Milky Way. The front door has a mesh panel behind and low vents aid air flow.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
CA$80
 / night
Fred's Place

9. Fred's Place

4 sites · Tents · Baddeck, NS
2.3 acres of woodlot at the end of the road. Very rustic. Ideal for campers and bicycle campers. Very few facilities but you can put up a tent and have a fire. It's super quiet and the only sound is the wind and the very occasional car (like one a day). Five minute walk to the ocean. 15 kms to the nearest store. I will be at my cabin but the property is large enuf for you to have total privacy if you want it. I can be reached by email at frederick.gardiner123abc@gmail.com. I'm located at the end of Richard's Pond Lane. To get here, go to South Side Road, South Side River Bourgeois. Turn right on Richard's Pond Lane and follow it to the end. Turn right, go to the first sign that says 7/8 and follow the path up to my cabin. There is red tuck tape to show the way. On the map, I am not The Cuffs, but the location is the same.
Campfires
Toilets
from 
CA$25
 / night

On Cape Breton Island, you'll find over a dozen beach camping options that put you steps from saltwater and sand. Rates start at $25 a night, with the average coming in around $35. Most sites let you build a campfire, bring your dog, and have access to toilets—essentials after a day spent fishing, hiking, or catching waves. Local favourites include Unique Cabot Trail Campground (26 reviews), perched close to the coast, Aspy Acres (11 reviews), and Fred's Place (2 reviews). Expect unfussy setups and easy access to the best shoreline on the island. Bring layers—the wind can pick up fast.

91% (74) 18 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Cape Breton Island

Live Life In Tents Campground

1. Live Life In Tents Campground

99%
(61)
15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Baddeck, NS
This was one of the original homesteads in the Margarees. There was an old sawmill on site which was used to build the house and barn. It was sold to a man who started renovations for a summer house but ended up listing it for sale. I purchased it and completely renovated the 100-year-old house. Shortly after, my brother and I started an outfitting company with no plan of building a campground, but in 2017 we saw a great opportunity for building something unique. We wanted to keep a backwoods camping feel, but yet create it around a hostel-inspired environment. We launched June 1, 2018 and are in full swing now. We look forward to meeting you and will help you out in any way to make your trip here something to remember. Adventure awaits at this eco-camping hostel offering a natural setting, overlooking a picturesque valley. This location offers close to off-grid camping with a twist of comfort; furnished Glamping tents, sleeping up to 4 people per tent on a queen bed with twin camping beds for extra guests. Cooking gear, bedding, and towels are provided. Each tent, located at this eco-hostel, has its own campfire pit, with a solar outdoor shower on site and beautiful views of the river valley.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$35
 / night
Great Bras D'Or Waterside Camp

2. Great Bras D'Or Waterside Camp

100%
(1)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Ross Ferry, NS
Nicely treed with grassy clearings, this waterfront property has a pebble beach, with stunning views down the Great Bras D'Or Channel. At the beach, there’s swimming and fishing, shell searching, rock-skipping. Walk 100m down the beach to the Ross Ferry Marine Park where you’ll find shaded walking-trails, an outdoor fitness gym, and a jungle-gym with a slide for kids. Anyone who feels bold enough can jump off the wharf! There is also a boat launch that can be used (for a small donation to the Ross Ferry Marine Park. Guests of all campsites will have communal access to a small cabin close to the road in SUMMER TIMES ONLY. The interior of the cabin and the water are shut down in September. The cabin has power and water (AC cord can be run from the exterior outlet, and a hose can be attached to the exterior tap). Guests are free to use the small basic kitchen, bathroom, large deck and small living room, but the cabin is not for sleeping. There is no regular cleaning service, so guests are responsible for keeping the communal spaces clean.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
CA$35
 / night
The Dancing Moose Vacation rentals

3. The Dancing Moose Vacation rentals

100%
(3)
4 sites · Lodging · Englishtown, NS
The Dancing Moose Vacation rentals, (formally the Dancing Moose Cafe) is a beautiful 3.5 acre ocean front, (rock) beach accessible property, located right on the Cabot Trail, one of the most scenic routes in the world! We are located on the east side (sunrise) on the Cabot Trail, about 15 minutes from Ski Cape Smokey, 25 minutes from the entrance of the Cape Breton Highland National Park with over 35 well maintained hikes. The on site restaurant, The Dancing Moose Cafe, is changing its activity starting this year (2025) and will only be open, serving breakfast for guests that stay on the property. Full a la carte breakfast is available, including our "famoose" Dutch Pannekoek. Breakfast is optional and not included in the rental fee. There are 4 different kind of vacation rentals on the property, The Sleeping Moose Cottage (1x), The Zzzz Moose Camping Cabins (3x) The ZzzzMoose 2.0 Camping Cabin (1x) and the Birch Plain Tower 1x). The Sleeping Moose has a minimum of 2 nights. All other rentals can be booked for 1 night, or more of course. Except for the Birch Plain Tower al our vacation rentals are pet friendly. (as long as you see this message it means we are working on setting up the rental units)
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$91
 / night
Bunkies on Bras d'Or

4. Bunkies on Bras d'Or

1 site · Lodging · River Denys, NS
Rustic Glamping Retreat – Private Beach, Forest Escape & Sauna Access Experience effortless glamping in nature’s embrace. Nestled in a serene forest setting, this cozy retreat features two charming loft bunkies—each with a queen-size mattress in the upper loft—plus a small leather futon on the main level. A modular fold-out dining table and chairs offer flexible indoor dining or workspace options. Bunkie lofts are high up with access by sturdy wooden ladder (if you have mobility issues, it is not suitable). There are small leather futons and extra bedding on the main floor of the bunkie as a sleeping option. NOTE - VERY IMPORTANT Bunkies are located on top a hill at an elevation. PARKING is located on the beach front landing below down a gravel road with max parking for 2 cars. Off-grid comfort with eco-conscious touches: • Refresh in the outdoor shower (with hot and cold water) • Use the eco-friendly incinerating toilet and composting toilet and handwashing stations • Stay cozy with clean linens, blankets, and towels provided (including dog towels upon request) • Light your space with LED lanterns and flashlights, and recharge with a solar panel + 12V power pack • Rain barrel with water for washing dishes Camp cooking made easy: Cabana with prep area and storage! Enjoy access to a BBQ grill, Propane stoves, cooking utensils, dishes, coolers, and complimentary coffee, tea, cooking oils, basic spices. Adventure-ready amenities: You’ll have full access to the private property and secluded beach, on beautiful Bras d’Dor saltwater lake, complete with: • Kayaks • Paddle boat • 4 adult life jackets Water shoes are recommended for your shoreline adventures. Unplug and unwind: While there is no Wi-Fi at the bunkies, you’ll have solid mobile data coverage—and Wi-Fi access is available just 600 feet away at the owner’s main property. Data is available but can be spotty. Additional features: • Wood-fired sauna access (located at the owner’s property) • Seasonal firepit (please respect provincial fire bans—penalties apply) • Pet-friendly—your furry companions are welcome! • Parking at beachfront down the hill from the bunkies—luggage assistance available via RTV Let nature’s soundtrack soothe you—from the gentle flow of a nearby waterfall to the call
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$144
 / night
Aspy Acres

5. Aspy Acres

98%
(21)
5 sites · Tents · Baddeck, NS
Discover serenity at Aspy Acres, a tranquil campsite near Aspy Bay. Unwind by the creek, explore nearby White Point beach, and relish the privacy of secluded sites amidst lush trees and the sound of the babbling Smelt Brook. Ideal basecamp for Northern Cape Breton adventures. Book now for an unforgettable, rejuvenating camping experience.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
CA$25
 / night
Island Point Resort

6. Island Point Resort

3 sites · RVs · Southside Boularderie, NS
Island Point Resort is perfectly suited for: Family Vacations, Fishing or Boating. Getaways Retreats Quiet vacation spot to unwind. This peaceful resort tucked in on the shore of the Little Bras d’Or at Island Point Harbor. We are located 25min from Newfoundland ferry terminal. We are mainly a seasonal RV resort with some rental cabins. We have plenty of parking, boat ramp and small dock. Swimming raft and moorings for boats. Feel free to reach out to Jon at 902-322-1824 via call or text for more information.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
CA$50
 / night
Where Eagles Soar

7. Where Eagles Soar

100%
(1)
3 sites · RVs · Kempt Road, NS
We are located 25 minutes from the causeway connecting mainland Nova Scotia to our beautiful Cape Breton Island home. We have 2 properties, at our home site we are on hill overlooking Upper MacMillin Lake in the village of Kemp Road. Our 2nd property which is still being developed but available is a lot located on River Inhabitants near Cleveland. If you kayak/canoe this river will take you out to the ocean to explore the islands. we recently installed electricity and an outhouse and will have running water coming in September 2025. The amazing Cabot Trail is a day trip from our locations. Enjoy great kayaking/canoeing from our locations! **Nova Scotia does have a website to view for indication of fires to be allowed for the present day. Please check every day as fines are up to $25000.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
CA$30
 / night
Dome Yurt By The Ocean

8. Dome Yurt By The Ocean

2 sites · Lodging · Baddeck, NS
Glamping at its best: Tthe magical cozy River Inhabitants Basin and the breathtaking panoramic view from this elevated dome yurt facing the deep blue glittering ocean is the #1 getaway for affordable, relaxing, peaceful holidays, kayaking, hiking, biking, swimming, reading, writing, loving Rent our dome yurt in high season 2023 for 99 CAD per night with 2 (max 4 if you bring your own sleeping gear), plus final cleaning $80.00 plus 15% tax. As the river mouth and basin with lots of uninhabited islands offers a lot of things to do we suggest you to combine water sports adventure with your stay. An ocean kayak will be provided if you stay for a week or longer. We offer sailing tours, kayaking and fishing. Although we understand the desire to see as many places as possible when on vacation, we highly recommend people to stay with us for several days. Let your mind come to rest and get a good sleep on real good spring mattresses. ! We would love to be the place where you come to rest. Deep dive into nature and forget the day to day hustle for a while! Writers, painters, artists (like your host) find the inspiration and recharging for new productivity. Internal curtains at the huge windows enhance the impression that this has traditional-style solid HydroTex walls yet can be rolled up for views out and to the Milky Way. The front door has a mesh panel behind and low vents aid air flow.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
CA$80
 / night
Fred's Place

9. Fred's Place

4 sites · Tents · Baddeck, NS
2.3 acres of woodlot at the end of the road. Very rustic. Ideal for campers and bicycle campers. Very few facilities but you can put up a tent and have a fire. It's super quiet and the only sound is the wind and the very occasional car (like one a day). Five minute walk to the ocean. 15 kms to the nearest store. I will be at my cabin but the property is large enuf for you to have total privacy if you want it. I can be reached by email at frederick.gardiner123abc@gmail.com. I'm located at the end of Richard's Pond Lane. To get here, go to South Side Road, South Side River Bourgeois. Turn right on Richard's Pond Lane and follow it to the end. Turn right, go to the first sign that says 7/8 and follow the path up to my cabin. There is red tuck tape to show the way. On the map, I am not The Cuffs, but the location is the same.
Campfires
Toilets
from 
CA$25
 / night

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