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The best dog-friendly camping in Cabot Trail

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Cabot Trail offers over 130 pet-friendly camping spots, so you don't have to leave your dog behind when you hit the trail. Expect rates to hover around $35 a night, with some sites dipping as low as $25. Set up camp where you can light a fire, rinse off in a hot shower, and let your pet roam. Fishing, snow-sports, and swimming are all on the menu, depending on the season. Locals swear by Big Belle Farm (59 reviews), Black Rock Stables (57 reviews), and Smokey View (31 reviews)—all top choices with solid feedback. You’ll find sites tucked along ridges with ocean views, hidden in the woods, and even close to the water. Pack your lead, your fishing rod, and a towel for the dog.

86% (320)

Top-rated campgrounds

Hawthorn Eco Retreat

1. Hawthorn Eco Retreat

2 sites · Lodging · North East Margaree, NS
Please read before booking. Maybe you love camping but don’t want to pitch a tent tonight—or maybe you just want a simple place to unplug and breathe. If you’re seeking a full kitchen or bathroom, this isn’t the right fit. But if you want a back-to-basics stay that helps you reconnect with nature (without sleeping on the ground), The Spruce is for you. This is close-to-off-grid camping with a twist of comfort: furnished pine cabins tucked into the forest. The Spruce (220 sq ft) offers: Queen Haven mattress in the loft (ladder access) Writing nook with desk + chair Pull-out couch (sleeps 2 more) Direct-vent propane heater Rugs, shelves, mirror, and tall windows for natural light Private deck with dining bench/outdoor seating for coffee or stargazing Sleeps up to 4 guests Cooking & Dining: Butane stove (BYO butane, or add-on available) Cooking essentials (frying pan, pot, utensils, dishes, cups, flatware for 4) Off-Grid Essentials: Outdoor grill counter with space for meal prep and cooking 🚫 No electricity inside (Wi-Fi available at gazebo) 💧 Bring your own water (we can guide you to local springs) 🛏️ Bedding not included — bring your own or add on a bedding set Shared Spaces: Cinderella incineration-toilet bathroom bunkie Covered gazebo with lounge + Wi-Fi — your spot to connect or plan your next adventure Trail to the Margaree River (steep steps — use at your own risk) Add-Ons: Bedding set: $30 Butane canister: $8 Propane canister: $8 Tucked in a forested area of the property, The Spruce is a private off-grid bunkie designed for peaceful rest and deep exhale. Wake to the sound of birds, sip coffee on the deck beneath rustling spruce branches (and neighboring grouse), and watch the light shift through the trees as the day unfolds. Inside, you’ll find a cozy main level with a pull-out couch and tall wood ceilings that draw your eyes up. Climb the ladder to a spacious loft with a queen Haven mattress and a writing nook for slow mornings or quiet reflection — your nest in the trees. The direct-vent propane heater keeps you warm on cool nights, and large windows on both levels let the outdoors in. Outside, you’ll find a rustic outdoor dining area with a handmade wooden table.
Toilets
Trash
Cooking equipment
from 
CA$120
 / night
The White Pine Cottage

2. The White Pine Cottage

1 site · Lodging · Englishtown, NS
Cozy escape along Nova Scotia’s world-famous Cabot Trail. Nestled on over 1 acre, this charming cottage is just minutes from beaches, hiking trails, and Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Features include open living space, full kitchen, private deck, and a peaceful brook at the edge of the property. Centrally located between Baddeck and Ingonish, close to shops and services. Ideal for a relaxing getaway or nature-filled adventure. Experience the charm of the Cabot Trail! The space A Cozy Get-Away on the Cabot Trail Welcome to your peaceful escape along Nova Scotia’s world-famous Cabot Trail! Nestled on over 1 acre of private land, this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom cottage is perfect for year-round getaways, remote work stays, or adventure-filled vacations. Whether you're unwinding after a day of hiking in the summer or enjoying skiing adventures in the winter, this home is designed for comfort and connection with nature. Inside, you’ll find an open-concept living space warmed by a propane furnace and electric baseboards, a fully equipped kitchen, and a cozy back porch with laundry facilities and access to a private deck—perfect for your morning coffee or evening stargazing. Outdoors, explore your own cleared yard with plenty of space for bonfires, games, or garden picnics, and listen to the tranquil sounds of the brook running along the edge of the property. Located just minutes from local beaches, hiking trails, and everything Cape Breton is known for, you’re a short drive from both Baddeck and Ingonish—with easy access to groceries, restaurants, and essentials. Not to mention, you’re within reach of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Ski Cape Smokey, and some of the most scenic drives in Canada. Whether you're looking for a romantic retreat, a family-friendly base, or a peaceful solo escape—this spot has it all. Book now and experience the magic of the Cabot Trail—your coastal hideaway awaits! Guest access Full access to the entire cottage, including the private deck, yard space. The property sits on over 1 acre, offering plenty of room to relax, explore, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Parking is available on-site for multiple vehicles.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$176
 / night

Cabot Trail offers over 130 pet-friendly camping spots, so you don't have to leave your dog behind when you hit the trail. Expect rates to hover around $35 a night, with some sites dipping as low as $25. Set up camp where you can light a fire, rinse off in a hot shower, and let your pet roam. Fishing, snow-sports, and swimming are all on the menu, depending on the season. Locals swear by Big Belle Farm (59 reviews), Black Rock Stables (57 reviews), and Smokey View (31 reviews)—all top choices with solid feedback. You’ll find sites tucked along ridges with ocean views, hidden in the woods, and even close to the water. Pack your lead, your fishing rod, and a towel for the dog.

86% (320)

Top-rated campgrounds

Hawthorn Eco Retreat

1. Hawthorn Eco Retreat

2 sites · Lodging · North East Margaree, NS
Please read before booking. Maybe you love camping but don’t want to pitch a tent tonight—or maybe you just want a simple place to unplug and breathe. If you’re seeking a full kitchen or bathroom, this isn’t the right fit. But if you want a back-to-basics stay that helps you reconnect with nature (without sleeping on the ground), The Spruce is for you. This is close-to-off-grid camping with a twist of comfort: furnished pine cabins tucked into the forest. The Spruce (220 sq ft) offers: Queen Haven mattress in the loft (ladder access) Writing nook with desk + chair Pull-out couch (sleeps 2 more) Direct-vent propane heater Rugs, shelves, mirror, and tall windows for natural light Private deck with dining bench/outdoor seating for coffee or stargazing Sleeps up to 4 guests Cooking & Dining: Butane stove (BYO butane, or add-on available) Cooking essentials (frying pan, pot, utensils, dishes, cups, flatware for 4) Off-Grid Essentials: Outdoor grill counter with space for meal prep and cooking 🚫 No electricity inside (Wi-Fi available at gazebo) 💧 Bring your own water (we can guide you to local springs) 🛏️ Bedding not included — bring your own or add on a bedding set Shared Spaces: Cinderella incineration-toilet bathroom bunkie Covered gazebo with lounge + Wi-Fi — your spot to connect or plan your next adventure Trail to the Margaree River (steep steps — use at your own risk) Add-Ons: Bedding set: $30 Butane canister: $8 Propane canister: $8 Tucked in a forested area of the property, The Spruce is a private off-grid bunkie designed for peaceful rest and deep exhale. Wake to the sound of birds, sip coffee on the deck beneath rustling spruce branches (and neighboring grouse), and watch the light shift through the trees as the day unfolds. Inside, you’ll find a cozy main level with a pull-out couch and tall wood ceilings that draw your eyes up. Climb the ladder to a spacious loft with a queen Haven mattress and a writing nook for slow mornings or quiet reflection — your nest in the trees. The direct-vent propane heater keeps you warm on cool nights, and large windows on both levels let the outdoors in. Outside, you’ll find a rustic outdoor dining area with a handmade wooden table.
Toilets
Trash
Cooking equipment
from 
CA$120
 / night
The White Pine Cottage

2. The White Pine Cottage

1 site · Lodging · Englishtown, NS
Cozy escape along Nova Scotia’s world-famous Cabot Trail. Nestled on over 1 acre, this charming cottage is just minutes from beaches, hiking trails, and Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Features include open living space, full kitchen, private deck, and a peaceful brook at the edge of the property. Centrally located between Baddeck and Ingonish, close to shops and services. Ideal for a relaxing getaway or nature-filled adventure. Experience the charm of the Cabot Trail! The space A Cozy Get-Away on the Cabot Trail Welcome to your peaceful escape along Nova Scotia’s world-famous Cabot Trail! Nestled on over 1 acre of private land, this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom cottage is perfect for year-round getaways, remote work stays, or adventure-filled vacations. Whether you're unwinding after a day of hiking in the summer or enjoying skiing adventures in the winter, this home is designed for comfort and connection with nature. Inside, you’ll find an open-concept living space warmed by a propane furnace and electric baseboards, a fully equipped kitchen, and a cozy back porch with laundry facilities and access to a private deck—perfect for your morning coffee or evening stargazing. Outdoors, explore your own cleared yard with plenty of space for bonfires, games, or garden picnics, and listen to the tranquil sounds of the brook running along the edge of the property. Located just minutes from local beaches, hiking trails, and everything Cape Breton is known for, you’re a short drive from both Baddeck and Ingonish—with easy access to groceries, restaurants, and essentials. Not to mention, you’re within reach of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Ski Cape Smokey, and some of the most scenic drives in Canada. Whether you're looking for a romantic retreat, a family-friendly base, or a peaceful solo escape—this spot has it all. Book now and experience the magic of the Cabot Trail—your coastal hideaway awaits! Guest access Full access to the entire cottage, including the private deck, yard space. The property sits on over 1 acre, offering plenty of room to relax, explore, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Parking is available on-site for multiple vehicles.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$176
 / night

Under $50

  • Fainne Crann Camping
  • campers in the field
  • Fainne Crann Camping

Fainne Crann Camping

88%
(4)
5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Baddeck, NS
Step off the beaten path! Fainne Crann (Celtic Ring of Trees) is a gorgeous, remote 58-acre off-grid destination featuring 25 acres of conserved field and wetland, an apple orchard, and stunning western views—all tucked into the Middle River Wilderness Highlands. Come make this very private and serene property your base camp, surrounded by wild and cultivated beauty. We’re just a 4 km drive up a dirt road from the Cabot Trail, with no nearby neighbors, yet centrally located to explore all the beauty and adventure Cape Breton has to offer—20 minutes from Baddeck and 50 minutes from Inverness. Some locals affectionately call our historic farm “beyond the beyond.” Enjoy a complementary glass of our own farm-pressed apple cider upon arrival! Tent campers can choose their site in mowed areas of the field or apple orchard. Sites are car-accessible. We can currently host up to four groups of campers, with a maximum of 12 campers total at any time. (Coming soon! A glamping option with a 5 m bell tent, queen airbed, and linens.) We provide a hot shower, potable water, outdoor picnic or spindle tables, and an outhouse. Special Feature: Guests also have access to a generous indoor space in the refurbished barn—perfect for inclement weather, shade on a hot day, or evening games. The barn is accessible through the greenhouse and is set up with dining and seating areas plus a selection of games and puzzles. Enjoy a peaceful interlude in the farm’s own Fainne Crann, a Celtic tree circle of massive old maples tied to Cape Breton’s Gaelic history. Or start your morning with a walk along adjacent trails and quiet lanes before heading out to explore the island. If you’re curious about off-grid living, conservation, or agroecology, there’s much to discover here. Nearby (10–15 minutes): Big Spruce Brewery, Dancing Goat Café, Herring Choker Café, Lake O’Law, Margaree River, and access to the Highlands interior and Cape Clear via Hunter Mountain’s Crowdis Mountain Road. Pets are welcome on leash. Follow us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/fainne_crann?igsh=czg1NDB4NjVjZmxm
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$40
 / night
  • The Country
  • The Country
  • The Country

The Country

83%
(3)
10 sites · Tents, RVs · Baddeck, NS
Spacious, serine, and close to all amenities! Clean Beaches nearby, we are close to lobster and crab docks, and on the Cabot Trail. In the area you will enjoy hiking trails, lots of hiking, mountain biking, 4 wheeler trails and fishing. The co-op is a short distance away. On site there is a controlled fire pit and bbq. No potable water. We are Close to Cheticamp and there are many interesting things around to see and do!
Campfires
from 
CA$39
 / night
  • Doirie Maple Farm
  • Doirie Maple Farm
  • Doirie Maple Farm

Doirie Maple Farm

2 sites · RVs · Baddeck, NS
We have a variety of camping experiences, whether you want to hike and pitch a tent on a cliff overlooking the Mabou River, or park your RV for the night without worrying you will be chased off. Come and experience our superior beaches and picturesque and impeccably maintained multi-purpose trails. The hardest part will be going home!
0
from 
CA$45
 / night
  • Back Forty
  • Back Forty
  • Back Forty

Back Forty

100%
(2)
28 sites · Tents · Baddeck, NS
Located 15 minutes to Baddeck and 20 minutes from Margaree this Forty acre property has lots to offer. There are several fields and lots of forest to enjoy with several Kilometers of trails to explore. Most sites are walk-in sites with a parking area provided in the first field. The back boarder of property is the Beautiful Middle River with an awesome swimming hole and a path to get ya there. At this time there is no shower or washroom facilities but there is a compostable outhouse and solar showers can be used. Middle River is one of the premier fishing rivers on Cape Breton.
Potable water
Toilets
Trash
from 
CA$30
 / night
  • Accolade Retreat Kevin 902-292-1530
  • Accolade Retreat Kevin 902-292-1530
  • Accolade Retreat Kevin 902-292-1530

Accolade Retreat Kevin 902-292-1530

57%
(22)
10 sites · Tents, RVs · Chéticamp, NS
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.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$40
 / night

Star Hosts in Cabot Trail

  • Next to tent site
  • Road (bumpy but accessible with 2WD) through pasture to campsite
  • Next to tent site

Black Rock Stables

97%
(89)
2 sites · Tents · Black Rock, NS
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.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$30
 / night
  • River tubing is just one of the activities that we operate on site.
  • The view from the queen bed in each of our tents.
  • River tubing is just one of the activities that we operate on site.

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.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$35
 / night
  • Tenters can park their vehicles to the left of the fence line and tent to the right of the fence line. Entrance points to the tenting area every 100 feet.
  • You will drive by the barn on your way to a camping site. Tap with drinkable water to right of open door.
  • Tenters can park their vehicles to the left of the fence line and tent to the right of the fence line. Entrance points to the tenting area every 100 feet.

Big Belle Farm

97%
(230)
595 sites · Tents, RVs · Mabou, NS
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.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$25
 / night

Available this weekend

  • Oceanview RV Stop
  • Oceanview RV Stop
  • Oceanview RV Stop

Oceanview RV Stop

1 site · RV · Glace Bay, NS
The Cape Breton Miners Museum is home to the profound stories of miners and their families—the communities born and raised by the flame of the coal fire, and the resource that helped build a nation. We are also the proud home of the Men of the Deeps. //
Trash
from 
CA$35
 / night
  • Aspy Acres
  • Aspy Acres
  • Aspy Acres

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.
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$25
 / night
  • Wreck Cove, Cabot Trail Oceanfront
  • Wreck Cove, Cabot Trail Oceanfront
  • Wreck Cove, Cabot Trail Oceanfront

Wreck Cove, Cabot Trail Oceanfront

100%
(2)
1 site · Tent, RV · Baddeck, NS
Welcome to your slice of paradise along the majestic Cabot Trail! This property offers 6.94 acres of beautiful level land with 394 feet of breathtaking ocean frontage. Nestled on the renowned Cabot Trail near the base of Smokey, this property boasts level terrain, accessible via an established driveway and some clearing started for R or tent along the driveway/ocean of tucked in to the trees. Take in the inspiring views of Cape Smokey and listen to the waves crashing in! For added convenience, the amenities of Ingonish are a short 10-minute drive, providing easy access to dining, shopping, and other essentials.
0
from 
CA$40
 / night
  • The Dancing Moose Vacation rentals
  • The Dancing Moose Vacation rentals
  • The Dancing Moose Vacation rentals

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)
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$91
 / night
  • Great Bras D'Or Waterside Camp
  • Great Bras D'Or Waterside Camp
  • Great Bras D'Or Waterside Camp

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.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$35
 / night

Other options in and near Cabot Trail

  • Plage St Pierre Beach and Campground
  • Plage St Pierre Beach and Campground
  • Plage St Pierre Beach and Campground

Plage St Pierre Beach and Campground

1 site · Cheticamp, NS
Welcome to Plage Saint-Pierre Beach & Campground, where stunning natural beauty meets cozy accommodations, making it the perfect getaway for families and nature lovers alike! Nestled near the majestic Cape Breton Highlands National Park and conveniently located just off the scenic Cabot Trail, our campground offers a variety of lodging options, including charming cabins, RV rentals, and inviting RV and tent sites. All of this is just a short walk from our pristine sandy beach, providing you with the ideal setting for relaxation and adventure. Our dedicated staff is eager to help you create lasting memories during your stay. Experience the thrill of spotting eagles and seals, or watch the fishing boats gracefully sail in the distance during the early morning hours. You’ll also find yourself just minutes away from the picturesque Gypsum Mine Trail and the delightful Acadian village of Chéticamp, renowned for its fresh seafood and vibrant culture. At Plage Saint-Pierre, we understand that pets are part of the family, which is why we are a pet-friendly campground! Our amenities include a coin-operated laundry, hot showers, a small canteen for snacks and refreshments, and a fun mini-golf area to keep everyone entertained. We look forward to welcoming you and your family—pets included—to Plage Saint-Pierre Beach & Campground.
Toilets
Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Popular Cabot Trail trips

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Top parks in and near Cabot Trail

Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site
Cape Smokey Provincial Park
Lake O' Law Provincial Park
Plaster Provincial Park

Top regions near Cabot Trail

Cape Breton Island
Bay of Fundy

Top cities in and near Cabot Trail

Baddeck

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