The best ranch camping in New Brunswick

Having flown under the radar for quite some time, New Brunsick is one of Canada’s most intriguing spots, sandwiched between Maine in the United States to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. Evidence of Acadian and First Nations cultures is everywhere, from food to historical sites, and the famed Bay of Fundy offers sandy beaches and coastlines forged by the world’s highest tides. The towns of Saint John, Fredericton, and Moncton serve as gateways to expansive national and provincial parks, meaning that New Brunswick campgrounds and RV parks make for great spots to stay the night as you get out into nature. Though most campers visit in summer for warmth or fall as the leaves change, cold-weather activities and snowy glamping opportunities in chalets are winter draws.

The Bay of Fundy is known for having the highest tides in the world—you can either walk the ocean floor when the tide is out, or kayak among the tall flowerpot rocks when it’s in. The waterfront town of Alma serves as the gateway to Fundy National Park, a New Brunswick must-see with two dozen waterfalls, countless hiking trails, and even a swimming pool and golf course. Park camping options include front-country and backcountry campsites, yurts, cabins, and RV camping with hookups.

From Moncton, you can access the white sands at Parlee Beach Provincial Park, the town of Shediac (the self-proclaimed lobster capital of the world, complete with massive, climbable lobster at the town entrance), and a handful of RV resort parks. Drive up the eastern coast to explore sand dunes, salt marshes, and forest trails in Kouchibouguac National Park, a Canadian Dark Sky Preserve.

Set on the Bay of Fundy and easily accessed from the U.S. border, the former industrial town of Saint John is the most well-known in New Brunswick. It’d be hard to visit the province without a stop in at the breweries and boutiques here, but the port city is also surrounded by nature and opportunities for beach camping and RV stays. RV and tent camping can be found right in Saint John, while oceanfront campgrounds dot the nearby resort town of Saint Andrews.

The sparsely populated northern part of New Brunswick is known for remote camping and hiking opportunities. Climb the province's highest peaks and get treated to a view of 10 million trees in Mount Carleton Provincial Park, or head east to Caraquet, the heart of Acadian New Brunswick, to gorge on traditional foods and immerse yourself in the unique culture.