The best pets off leash campgrounds near Baddeck, Nova Scotia

In the heart of Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island is the quaint village of Baddeck. It marks both the beginning and end of the scenic Cabot Trail. The natural scenery is a quintessential representation of Atlantic Canada, with Acadian forest, rugged highlands, and the brackish waters of Bras d’Or Lake serving as a home for mollusks, ospreys, moose, and lynx. Camping at Cape Breton Highlands National Park offers a great opportunity to drive the iconic 298-kilometre Cabot Trail, soaking in coastal views and highland scenery. Or, enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on Bras d’Or Lake from Battery Provincial Park. Then visit Nova Scotia’s only totem pole at Whycocomagh Provincial Park. With a range of backcountry campsites and well-equipped campgrounds in the region, camping near Baddeck has something for everyone.

83% (186)

Top-rated campgrounds near Baddeck

In the heart of Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island is the quaint village of Baddeck. It marks both the beginning and end of the scenic Cabot Trail. The natural scenery is a quintessential representation of Atlantic Canada, with Acadian forest, rugged highlands, and the brackish waters of Bras d’Or Lake serving as a home for mollusks, ospreys, moose, and lynx. Camping at Cape Breton Highlands National Park offers a great opportunity to drive the iconic 298-kilometre Cabot Trail, soaking in coastal views and highland scenery. Or, enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on Bras d’Or Lake from Battery Provincial Park. Then visit Nova Scotia’s only totem pole at Whycocomagh Provincial Park. With a range of backcountry campsites and well-equipped campgrounds in the region, camping near Baddeck has something for everyone.

83% (186)

Top-rated campgrounds near Baddeck

1. Big Belle Farm

97%

(230)

49km from Baddeck · 595 sites · Tents, RVs

INSTRUCTIONS When you reserve your tent/rv make sure to select the day you want to check in until the day you are leaving. For example, to stay all weekend, select Friday to Sunday. To stay only Friday night, select Friday to Saturday. Selecting only one date will not reserve the date you want as it expects a start and end date to select any given date or date range. ABOUT Big Belle Farm is surrounded by large hayfields on the front of our property and at the back behind where the concert will take place. Tenters will be camping in the front fields and RVs will behind the concert field. When you come onsite there will be someone to meet you who will point out the locations were you can setup your tent or RV. There will be event Portable Toilets on site and access to water near the concert grounds.

2. Great Bras D'Or Waterside Camp

100%

(1)

14km from Baddeck · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

3. Black Rock Stables

97%

(89)

37km from Baddeck · 2 sites · Tents

If you enjoy beautiful views of lakes/ocean and mountains, gorgeous sunsets, stargazing, the sound of the waves and bell buoys then Black Rock Stables campsite is the place for you to pitch your tent. Located at the end of the farm on a cliff (6’ wire fence) overlooking the beautiful Brasd’Or lakes. You are welcome to have a campfire (wood available for $5.00), but check the Nova Scotia Government site to make certain campfires are permitted. Please feel free to visit the animals on the farm (horses, goats, rabbits and chickens); however, children must be accompanied by an adult. Also, please do not bring dogs near the farm animals.

4. Where River Eagles Soar

60km from Baddeck · 1 site · RV

This property is located on River Inhabitants which is a tidal river going in and out from the North Atlantic 2x a day. We are not set up for tents yet but welcome RV's. A porta- potti and electricity are in place and running water will be available in late August. Located near the village of Cleveland and off Evanston Road. (Not sure why HC states it is near Antigonish?) Great fishing and kayaking but be mindful of the tides. Located nearby is a ranger tower to view the area and the stars above. Best to get all your supplies in Port Hawkesbury if u are just arriving on Cape Breton. Strait Richmond Hospital. is 10 min. away if needed. Please be mindful of our garden and young fruit trees. Please pack out all of you garbage as we do not have local garbage pickup... garbage can be disposed of in local towns. The town of Louisdale offers free potable water and dump station (located next to Babins Yamaha).

5. Accolade Retreat Kevin 902-292-1530

57%

(22)

61km from Baddeck · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Discover a 24-acre haven for off-grid camping in Cheticamp, Nova Scotia, nestled at the foothills of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and conveniently situated directly across from the Gypsum Mine. This scenic property features an artisan well providing potable water, strategically located in the expansive 24-acre cleared field at the rear. This property is completely off grid and not for timid campers. if you are looking for complete privacy and across the road from the gypsum mine and a 20 minute walk to town, on the trail, then you will love it here! It is very rustic and not for the faint of heart. During the summer months, we operate a hostel on-site, offering access to washroom and shower facilities as needed. These washroom/shower facilities are NOT accessible in the winter. This space is ideally suited for off-grid camping enthusiasts who share a like-minded appreciation for nature. Please note that visitors are responsible for their own waste disposal arrangements. If you find this area intriguing, feel free to reach out to Kevin at 902-292-1530 or Charyl at 867-688-4611, via call or text for more information.

6. Dragonfly Cottage

100%

(3)

37km from Baddeck · 3 sites · Lodging

Get away from it all, a very quiet cabin in the woods. A great place to decompress and enjoy some time away. The property is left natural and has an apple tree and berries can be found around the area. Excellent high speed internet now available. There is an area to hook up a camper that provides water, power and sewer. Registration # STR2526B0709

7. Cabot Cottage and Seaside Cabins

21km from Baddeck · 3 sites · Lodging

Enjoy the beauty of both the forest and the ocean on this 4 acre property off the Cabot Trail, where 3 wilderness cabins and a large 2-level home are nestled among the forest which leads down to the waterfront. The space is perfect for those who love nature and rustic vibes. All of the cabins sleep two people, with a personal fire pit, bbq, kitchenette, drinking water (although no running water), and all the amenities needed to spend a few nights in nature. The shared outdoor bathroom has been hand crafted with lots of natural light, a composting toilet (i.e. non-flushing), hot water shower and two sinks. ------- Shared spaces include the trails, washroom, deck overlooking the bay, adirondack chairs at the lookoff, kayaks, hammocks, wood shed, and checkerboard table. There will be up to 12 people on the property - 6 in the cabins, 4 in the main level of the home, and our on-site property managers stay in the walkout basement of the home. ------- The whole property is essentially on a hill. Parking is near the top, followed by the cabins, the shared bathrooms, the 2-story home, and then the waterfront is a few minutes further down. The paths are not suitable for people with mobility issues and potentially seniors. --------------------------------- Registration Number: STR2526T9953

8. Bunkies on Bras d'Or

32km from Baddeck · 1 site · Lodging

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

9. Waters Edge

60km from Baddeck · 1 site · RV

RV site right at the water’s edge and wake up to the sound of gentle waves (see photos). A short walk through the forest leads you to this peaceful site, tucked away in nature. Kayaks and a canoe are available for you to explore the shoreline—life jackets (PFDs) are provided and must be worn. Evenings are best spent by the fire, but don’t forget to check novascotia.ca/burnsafe after 2 pm daily for provincial fire restrictions. Our location makes the perfect base for adventure. Take a day trip along the famous Cabot Trail, discover Isle Madame, explore rugged Meat Cove, or step back in time at the Fortress of Louisbourg. Come for the quiet, stay for the views, and leave with unforgettable memories.

Camper favorites near Baddeck

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Where River Eagles Soar

60km from Baddeck · 1 site · RV

This property is located on River Inhabitants which is a tidal river going in and out from the North Atlantic 2x a day. We are not set up for tents yet but welcome RV's. A porta- potti and electricity are in place and running water will be available in late August. Located near the village of Cleveland and off Evanston Road. (Not sure why HC states it is near Antigonish?) Great fishing and kayaking but be mindful of the tides. Located nearby is a ranger tower to view the area and the stars above. Best to get all your supplies in Port Hawkesbury if u are just arriving on Cape Breton. Strait Richmond Hospital. is 10 min. away if needed. Please be mindful of our garden and young fruit trees. Please pack out all of you garbage as we do not have local garbage pickup... garbage can be disposed of in local towns. The town of Louisdale offers free potable water and dump station (located next to Babins Yamaha).

Accolade Retreat Kevin 902-292-1530

57%

(22)

61km from Baddeck · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Discover a 24-acre haven for off-grid camping in Cheticamp, Nova Scotia, nestled at the foothills of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and conveniently situated directly across from the Gypsum Mine. This scenic property features an artisan well providing potable water, strategically located in the expansive 24-acre cleared field at the rear. This property is completely off grid and not for timid campers. if you are looking for complete privacy and across the road from the gypsum mine and a 20 minute walk to town, on the trail, then you will love it here! It is very rustic and not for the faint of heart. During the summer months, we operate a hostel on-site, offering access to washroom and shower facilities as needed. These washroom/shower facilities are NOT accessible in the winter. This space is ideally suited for off-grid camping enthusiasts who share a like-minded appreciation for nature. Please note that visitors are responsible for their own waste disposal arrangements. If you find this area intriguing, feel free to reach out to Kevin at 902-292-1530 or Charyl at 867-688-4611, via call or text for more information.

Dragonfly Cottage

100%

(3)

37km from Baddeck · 3 sites · Lodging

Get away from it all, a very quiet cabin in the woods. A great place to decompress and enjoy some time away. The property is left natural and has an apple tree and berries can be found around the area. Excellent high speed internet now available. There is an area to hook up a camper that provides water, power and sewer. Registration # STR2526B0709

Cabot Cottage and Seaside Cabins

21km from Baddeck · 3 sites · Lodging

Enjoy the beauty of both the forest and the ocean on this 4 acre property off the Cabot Trail, where 3 wilderness cabins and a large 2-level home are nestled among the forest which leads down to the waterfront. The space is perfect for those who love nature and rustic vibes. All of the cabins sleep two people, with a personal fire pit, bbq, kitchenette, drinking water (although no running water), and all the amenities needed to spend a few nights in nature. The shared outdoor bathroom has been hand crafted with lots of natural light, a composting toilet (i.e. non-flushing), hot water shower and two sinks. ------- Shared spaces include the trails, washroom, deck overlooking the bay, adirondack chairs at the lookoff, kayaks, hammocks, wood shed, and checkerboard table. There will be up to 12 people on the property - 6 in the cabins, 4 in the main level of the home, and our on-site property managers stay in the walkout basement of the home. ------- The whole property is essentially on a hill. Parking is near the top, followed by the cabins, the shared bathrooms, the 2-story home, and then the waterfront is a few minutes further down. The paths are not suitable for people with mobility issues and potentially seniors. --------------------------------- Registration Number: STR2526T9953

Bunkies on Bras d'Or

32km from Baddeck · 1 site · Lodging

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

Waters Edge

60km from Baddeck · 1 site · RV

RV site right at the water’s edge and wake up to the sound of gentle waves (see photos). A short walk through the forest leads you to this peaceful site, tucked away in nature. Kayaks and a canoe are available for you to explore the shoreline—life jackets (PFDs) are provided and must be worn. Evenings are best spent by the fire, but don’t forget to check novascotia.ca/burnsafe after 2 pm daily for provincial fire restrictions. Our location makes the perfect base for adventure. Take a day trip along the famous Cabot Trail, discover Isle Madame, explore rugged Meat Cove, or step back in time at the Fortress of Louisbourg. Come for the quiet, stay for the views, and leave with unforgettable memories.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

C

Camille

November 2025

Tent

3 nights at Great Bras D'Or Waterside Camp

I booked, confirmed by email, three nights here as their ad offered full services, drove quite a ways to get there and was exhausted the first night when I arrived so went directly to the site and slept. Come morning, I went down to the house that the ad says has the kitchen, shower, toilet, water, electricity. All doors were locked. Took two hours for the owner to respond to my email and he responded that they were closed for the season and would offer a full refund. I requested a full refund then had to follow up to obtain it. Then I checked my records and see that I did not get the full refund. I had to email again and was advised by owner that I had to contact hip camp for the remainder. Waste of time I replied, for all of this. He then challenged me that I had somewhere to lay my head for the night for $10 and asked me if I liked the view. I only wasted $50 to get there, sleep, NOT shower and have amenities then had to find somewhere else and drive there. Terrible service.

M

Myles

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Black Rock Stables

Nicest view with a lot of protection from the wind and rain.

Location of the 5 woodland camp sites. Campsite 1 is the nearest campsite in this photo.

Marnie

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Big Belle Farm

Clear directions and beautiful views, perfect spot to pitch a tent for the night

J

Jacob

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Black Rock Stables

Excellent spot! The views were incredible! (Needs 50 spaces so fjalfjsnflsmxbxkebrjficntjenfj)

Kim

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Black Rock Stables

Kim is a friendly host, and her property is just beautiful, with horses, dogs, chickens, goats and rabbits! The campsite is positioned beyond the homestead, through a gate and has a beautiful view of the ocean. The campsite is laid out very well and has a clean, well kept outhouse. It feels private and peaceful to camp on this farm. There is no traffic noise whatsoever, just the sounds of the country, farm animals and the ocean. Would stay again! A very short drive to N Sydney which was an added bonus.

E

Extoljc

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Black Rock Stables

We enjoyed our stay on Kim’s property. Very peaceful and private location with amazing star gazing without the light pollution from the city. Awesome views of the ocean and the goats were cool too! She was very swift to answer any questions we had and gave great advice. Would recommend this place.

On a hill overlooking the farm buildings.

E

Emily

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Big Belle Farm

I love tenting here! Great environment for blueberry jam and everyone was welcoming!

A

Amélie

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Black Rock Stables

This place was the perfect spot for my kids and me to begin our journey in Nova Scotia! It offered everything we needed to rest, relax, and truly connect with nature — all while enjoying the company of the animals. If they could have, I’m sure my kids would have begged me to stay more than just one night! Thank you for giving us the chance to share a wonderful dinner together while admiring the most breathtaking sunset view. It was an unforgettable moment we will cherish.

P

Peter

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Black Rock Stables

What an amazing place to camp - up on the cliffs looking over the ocean at the opposite bay, view of the active lighthouse off to the left, sound of buoy bells if the waves are up, stars in the sky. There are 3 sites well spread out, all w/ ocean sitting areas and firepits (wood provided) - unfortunately there was a fire ban when we were there so no fire, but we were alone for the night we stayed and all was great. The pit toilet is clean and fine, and there is even a solar shower to use. Kim met us as we arrived - horses wandering around and dogs barking (but nicely) and directed us. No hassle at all, and excellent location on the island. We would highly recommend!!

G

Gerard

August 2025

Tent

4 nights at Big Belle Farm

Great host. Wide open field but perfect for a campervan base for day trips

B

Belspethen

August 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Black Rock Stables

We really enjoyed our time at Black Rock Stables. Kim has done a wonderful job creating a relaxing and thoughtfully appointed campsite, and was a gracious host. The highlights for us were: the location, the menagerie of friendly animals, and the hammock area with sea views. Thanks for a great stay!

B

Bertille

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Black Rock Stables

We loved camping on the farm ! We had an unexpected visit from one of the horses and it was such a nice experience. Kim was very reactive and we could go to her for any issue. Would go back again !

S

Susan

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Black Rock Stables

We enjoyed our time camping on Kim’s land. Easy directions to find her farm, we arrived at night (very dark) and she was very nice about ensuring we found our site. It was very quiet, and we could see the stars. We had bfast on the picnic tables overlooking the ocean. What could be more perfect?!!

V

Vanessa

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Black Rock Stables

A fantastic view, and very private. Would definitely camp there again.

s

scott

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Black Rock Stables

Awesome 🤩 Wonderful place, great views! Could not ask for better!

N

Nikole

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Black Rock Stables

We loved staying at Kim’s! The ocean views seen from property were beautiful and a few steps away from your tent’s door. The seating areas are comfortable and well placed. All amenities were refreshed (water, outhouse, garbage, etc) from previous camping guests. This site is secluded and perfect for those that would like to be off the beaten path but enjoy the small comforts. Kim was very responsive to messages and a great host. If we are ever back in that area, would definitely stay again!

R

Rosalie

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Black Rock Stables

The place was great, beautiful farm and cute animals, the host was letting us pet the baby rabbits and the dog:)) Private place, really calm and welcoming! Would definitely recommend

R

Rosalie

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Big Belle Farm

Really clean, good spot and really good view! We stayed a night and could have spend more:)

Isabelle

July 2025

Tent

3 nights at Black Rock Stables

It's an amazing spot to relax. The host is very disponible. A Nice place to go!

L

Lesley

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Big Belle Farm

Paul’s farm was the perfect place to spend the night. The views of surrounding farms and rolling fields were beautiful and the dark night sky with full moon and complete quiet were very nourishing. We would love the chance to stay again next time we’re in Mabou.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best pets off leash camping near Baddeck guide

Where to go

Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Covering nearly 1,000 square kilometres, Cape Breton Highlands National Park protects about 20 percent of northern Cape Breton. One of 26 trails in the park, the 8.2-kilometre Skyline Trail loop leads to an eagle’s eye view of the Cabot Trail. Look for birds, moose, and bears along the way. The park boasts multiple campgrounds, from Broad Cove with over 200 campsites and hot showers to the backcountry campsites at Fishing Cove, once the site of a Scottish fishing community.

Battery Provincial Park

On the other side of Bras d’Or Lake, Battery Provincial Park is a terrific destination for campers who love water-based activities. Take in sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean from the hilltop campground, which features wooded and open campsites with a universal family restroom. Some campsites are equipped with hookups for drinking water and 30-amp electricity. Unsupervised swimming is available on St. Peter’s Bay, or go angling for Atlantic salmon, gaspereau, brook trout with a valid sportfishing license.

Whycocomagh Provincial Park

Up on a hillside overlooking the western shore of Bras d’Or Lake is Whycocomagh Provincial Park. It’s home to Nova Scotia’s only totem pole. Gifted in 1971 by British Columbia, the totem pole was carved by Patterson McKay, a member of the Greenville Band—part of Tsimshian First Nation. Today, the totem pole lays on its side to “return to the earth” on the McQueen Trail. The on-site campground loop offers showers, fire rings, and electrical and water hookups for RVers, but be mindful of the rough roads leading in and around the park. Yurts with bunk beds are also available for a comfortable stay.

When to go

The most pleasant time of year to go camping in and around Baddeck is from late spring to early fall. Some public campgrounds are only open from May to October to coincide with warmer weather. Prepare for precipitation year-round on Cape Breton Island. Daytime temperatures approach 15–20℃ by May, heating up to the mid-20s during sunnier summer months. Enjoy stunning colourful foliage and peak apple picking in early fall.