Camping in Nova Scotia

This is where you want to be for salty waves, rambling coasts, and fresh fish.

94% (944 reviews)

Canada
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Nova Scotia

94% (944 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Nova Scotia

Community favorites in Nova Scotia

Stories from the community

Weekend Trip to Owl's Hollow Eco-Therapy Glamping

Had an amazing time at Owls Hollow! The spot is incredibly scenic and quiet with very few surrounding cottages. Would highly recommend taking out the boats and exploring the rest of the lake. Directions and signage is very clear, had no problem getting there or finding anything once arrived. Would highly recommend this wonderful spot!

Weekend Trip to Owl's Hollow Eco-Therapy Glamping

We had a fantastic weekend! The hut is so warm and cozy - wonderful location for winter camping. Beautiful site and excellent hosts. Good walking trails and great spot to bring your dog!

1 night at Black Rock Stables

An unmatched view at an exceptional location. This spot was great for a wintertime camping trip. Kim is responsive and accommodating. The farm road out to the site is neat and patrolled by curious horses. AWD or 4WD are a must for access in January. Looking forward to the next time!

1 night at Black Rock Stables

Remote and relaxing. The view is unmatched, and the horses are quite funny. Kim has been accommodating and responsive. Great place for winter camping with a 4WD vehicle.

Weekend Trip to Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

Pristine site on a gorgeous, well-maintained property. Great firewood and outhouse. Site 3 was such a quiet, peaceful location- perfect if you prefer camping in the woods. Beautiful stars and sunrise over the water. Dan was very helpful and quick to respond. What I wish every camping experience could be.

Under $50

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Green Grass of Home

1 site · RV10 acres · Rockville, NS

Learn more about this land: This is private land mostly fields where you should see deer grazing in the evening. There are two sites available, ideal for vans, trailers, and RVs up to 35 feet. You can expect a pull-in level site. There is no toilet on-site. Campfires are permitted and pets are welcome. It is a short 3 min walk to the Fisherman's wharf. About 5 min drive to the historical town of Yarmouth, NS and the Cat Ferry to Maine. John's cove beach is about a 15min drive on the way to the Yarmouth light on Cape Forchu. Yarmouth Golf club is about a 4 min drive away.

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FORT NOVA

10 sites · RVs, Tents127 acres · Jordan Falls, NS

Oh. My. Gawd. Where to start?! This is one of the original properties for the area. Owned by one lovely family since the 1700's until your current (very lucky) host. The house was the post office from 1861 to 1961. One of the rooms was the hospice for the area... SPOOOOOKY!!! There is a culvert from the 1700's on the property from where the province moved the highway sometime before the 40's. Reggie took over ownership in 2020 and is keeping things as original as possible, but adding his touch, like his battle axe travel trailer, Franny, makes her home in the driveway, but of course. She's worth a visit! - TENT ADVANCED LEVEL LAKESIDE is by far the most beautiful, however it is a small area, and on the edge of the property and I can't be responsible for neighbours to a point. Learn more about this land: Fort Nova is your home for as long as you choose. Let's get campy! You can pick from the lawn, living amongst the pines, a forrest clearing, or even the lake side peninsula. Complete privacy, and y'all can hit me up in the house if you need anything. On the property there is: - A decent sized lake - 1700's abandon bridge - Lots of foraging So many things bloody things to do nearby: - The ocean is right across the street. - Oasis Fish and Chips (Also right across the street!) - Beech Street Kitchen (in Lockeport) - Barrington (Lobster capital of the world, UFO capital of Canada) - Brooklyn (Hank Snow's hometown) - Rail Trail (runs through the property) - Provincial Parks - Boxing Rock Brewing Co.

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Charlies Wood Lot Retreat

1 site · Tent120 acres · Chapman Settlement, NS

Welcome to my tranquil wood lot retreat, where nature's wonders await your discovery. Nestled amidst the trees, our retreat offers a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Spend your days watching bears, birds, and a myriad of other creatures as they go about their daily routines in their natural habitat. During the growing season, indulge in the bounty of our garden, where you can enjoy fresh vegetables and perhaps even gather some just-laid eggs for breakfast. Immerse yourself in the simple joys of farm-to-table dining, savoring the flavors of the earth in every bite. Venture out to the nearby beach for a day of fun in the sun, or simply take a stroll through the woods, allowing the sights, sounds, and scents of nature to envelop you. With each step, you'll feel the stress of daily life melting away as you connect with the natural world around you. At night, gather around the fire pit and share stories, laughter, and the warmth of camaraderie with your fellow retreat-goers. If conditions permit, you may even have the opportunity to roast marshmallows and savor the simple pleasures of a crackling fire under the starlit sky. With an outhouse on site for your convenience, you can rest assured that all your needs are taken care of during your stay. So come, escape the hustle and bustle of city life, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of my wood lot retreat. Experience the beauty of nature in its purest form and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Wolf Pines Glamping Life

8 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · Bayhead, NS

Authentic Mongolian Yurt is nestled in a heart of beautiful pine forest on the North Shore between Tatamagouche and Malagash. You can enjoy near by beaches, boating, kayaking, biking, vineyard, brewery and local markets. The Yurt sits on an elevated deck for you to enjoy the views of a forest. It is equipped with a double bed and traditional Mongolian single bed. Bedding is also provided. There is a BBQ available and an outdoor fire pit. Gravity fed outdoor shower and toilets are located next to the Yurt. We ask that you only use natural soaps.

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Ripped Hippies Camping Experience

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents52 acres · Salt Springs, NS

6 off grid camper sites and 1 off grid rental glamper on 52 secluded acres in Lovat, Saltsprings. A great place to kick back and relax or take in the many hiking trails and festivals in the area! If you're up for a good hike, there is a wonderful brook on the property. Clean Porta poties on site May 1 to Oct 15 each year. We are only 15 mins to New glasgow for shopping, 5 min drive to local swimming hole, 25 mins to local beaches, lots of hiking trails withing a 30 minute radius!

Top camping destinations

Dollar Lake Provincial Park

290 campgrounds

Amherst

22 campgrounds

Cape Breton Highlands National Park

124 campgrounds

Tatamagouche

35 campgrounds

Kejimkujik National Park

307 campgrounds

Sable Island National Park

43 campgrounds

Available this weekend

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Bootsie's

1 site · Lodging40 acres · Amherst, NS

After a short less than 5 minute walk, check out the sunset view out the back patio door, birds and squirrels chirping galore. Relax, have a campfire, dip your feet in the nearby brook and enjoy nature in this cozy and comfortable space. Explore acres of wooded area or visit some farm animals (chickens, turkeys, emus and sometimes cows)

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Blue Forest Shores

7 sites · Tents100 acres · Head Of Jeddore, NS

Welcome to Blue Forest Shores . com, our small, nature-based retreat center. We are an alcohol-free community with a minimum stay requirement of 2 nights. Forested, ocean-side property, with two permanent homes. You have access to swimming, 5 km hiking trails on the property, wood fired sauna (extra fees), fully equipped community kitchen, outdoor forest shower. We have an indoor, community space for reading, games, in case of bad weather, plus internet access. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate children. We appreciate your interest. Team Blue Forest

92%

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Little Lake Retreat

1 site · Tent2 acres · Port Joli, NS

This is a sweet little property of approximately an acre, though the whole lake is undeveloped. The site is treed with mostly mature trees and overlooks Little Robertson Lake. The lake is close, but the shoreline is not extremely easy to access. This campsite is private, but not remote. It is located close to a byway and you can drive in. There is not too much traffic on the adjacent road which leads to several white sand ocean beaches and trails along with Keji Seaside National Park and Thomas Raddall Provincial Park. All within a few minutes drive.

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Big Blue On The Bay

2 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Maitland, NS

"Big Blue" sits atop a lawn covered hill on the shore of the Cobequid Bay. A grove of fir and pine trees offer a sense of woodland solitude and fairies. The energy is magical. You can enjoy a front row seat or amble down over the lawn to sit on the end of the public wharf to watch the tidal bore squeeze into the mouth of the Shubenacadie River. It won't be long and you can marvel at the force of the water as it turns and begins to pour back toward the Bay of Fundy. Walk across the dyke to reach the oldest continually operating general store in North America - Frieze and Roy. Beyond the Wharf, a locally stocked craft shop borders us on the easterly side of the lawn. Next to it you will find Dawson Dowel Picnic Park, a playground and basketball court. On the westerly side of the driveway you there is a marsh area. The remnants of the shipyard where the WD Lawrence was built in the 1800's can be seen poking through the sand on the beach directly in front of the marsh. At low tide you can walk for miles in a westerly direction. Always be Tide Aware! Across the road from the marsh is the residence of WD Lawrence himself. It is a provincial museum. Directly across from Big Blue is a Ducks Unlimited pond. The sound of the geese and ducks can be heard 24 hours a day! There is a path that circumvents most of the pond. Adjacent to the Lawrence House parking lot there is an observatory where you can linger and watch the shenanigans of the occasional muskrat or possibly a beaver. The washrooms are accessed through a side door on the verandah of the main house. There are three showers and three toilets. If happen to be missing your "workout" there is a treadmill and exercise bike available to use. Outdoor fire regulations are strictly adhered to. There is a BBQ available for a small fee. Other perks (subject to scheduling) available at an additional cost might include: In-house Concerts; Reiki Sessions; Workshops and Ceremonies

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Big Belle Farm

515 sites · RVs, Tents61 acres · 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.

12 top campgrounds in Nova Scotia

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Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

5 sites · RVs, Tents400 acres · Advocate Harbour, NS

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Owl's Hollow Eco-Therapy Glamping

2 sites · Lodging, Tents11 acres · Caledonia, NS

Get back to nature at our lakefront eco-therapy camping and glamping property where you will experience serene lake life and forest bathing at its best! Owl's Hollow offers you private camping and glamping on Tupper Lake at one of two unique sites: The Hut and The Perch (new for summer 2024). Each site is tucked away at the end of its own walk-in trail where you find yourself at the water's edge yet surrounded by majestic white pines. This is a quiet part of the lake with very few residents and motorized boats. Book The Hut or The Perch site at Owl's Hollow for your next camping adventure and be as lazy or active as your body needs to rejuvenate. Guaranteed the experience will bring you back to the calmness you may have been missing! By booking Owl's Hollow lodging/camping, you agree to save and hold harmless Karen and Ben Perry from any liability arising out of your stay. You acknowledge that there are hazards such as uneven surfaces, heights, bodies of water, wildfire, wildlife and noxious plants that are beyond the control of the owner and you assume all responsibility for your own safety. Nova Scotia Registration Number: RYA-2023-24-04051421027007770-28

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Murphy's Camping on the Ocean

35 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Tangier, NS

The Wild Islands, 100 Wild Islands, Wild Islands Coast. Regardless of the name, we couldn’t be more lucky to have this pristine wilderness at our fingertips. Considered to be “The most valuable islands you’ve never heard of”, the archipelago is one of the last remaining intact and ecologically rich island groups of its size in North America. We want to share it with you… responsibly. As members of 1% for the Planet and Leave No Trace Canada, we’re committed to conserving the islands and helping others to do the same. We believe that people can only fully appreciate the islands’ unmatched beauty and conservation value by experiencing them firsthand. Murphy’s Camping on the Ocean has been operating on Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore for over 60 years! This makes Murphy’s Camping one of the longest-running campgrounds in Nova Scotia. Our campground lands began as a coastal fishing settlement where you’ll still find a fisherman’s wharf and the old salt fish tanks from years past when schooners would load this cargo bound for the New England market. Over the years the Murphys have provided services such as schooner supply runs, rum running, moon shining, boat building, blacksmith services, farm produce, and sport fishing.

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Sand Point RV Camping and Tenting

13 sites · RVs, Tents87 acres · Tatamagouche, NS

Caution mosquitos considered to be ok in June, manageable in July and off the charts from August to September long. We are Located within a five minute drive just outside of Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia, our property has over 2500 feet of oceanfront with a mixture of Sand, Pebble and Rock covered beaches. 1500 ft of our ocean front is mostly made up of 60ft high cliffs with trees for shelter from the wind and sun. We supply everything you need such as two prefabricated C-Can washroom / Shower Units with both of the washrooms having showers with running hot water. (Bring your own Soap and Shampoo) unlimited firewood, and running water to have an unforgettable Ocean Front RV/camping/tenting experience. Don’t come camping if you don’t have the following: 1. A hatchet or axe. 2. A flashlight. 3. Shelter (tent). We supply a the view, water access, washroom, shower and firewood we don’t teach people how to start a fire or give them lessons on what to bring camping. Tatamagouche is home to the Tatamagouche Brewery, The Train Station Inn, The Creamery Square / Heritage Society (Anna Swan Museum) and the Balmoral Gristmill. Guests can take in dinning experiences at restaurants such as the Nook & Cranny, The Chowder House and Big Als Pub. For the golf enthusiasts, we are just 5 min away from the water front Brule Point Golf Course and for world class golfing experience we are just 30 minutes from the Fox Harbor Golf Resort. Our property is mainly made up of open spaces with few trees, we have an abundant of Pic-nic areas with oversized pic-nic tables are placed along the ocean front so guests can have an unforgettable gathering with friends and family. With steps down to our premium beach front. the property has easy access to the water for kayaking, swimming and we have a small boat launch for personal water crafts during high tides. Come check out this one-of-a-kind property! All ocean front tenting / RV sites have no services available if you want access to power and water you will have to book one of the sites that have services to it. We only have seven serviced sites available to our guests.

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Off the Beaten Trail Eco Lodging

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Rose Bay, NS

Welcome to Off the Beaten Trail. Found on the beautiful South Shore of Nova Scotia, near the famous U.N.E.S.C.O Town of Lunenburg, making us a great central location. We offer a glamping experience that will be hard to beat. Offering unique full service units, Tent and RV sites. Recognized Superhost with Airbnb and voted #3 in Nova Scotia for Best Hipcamp in 2022 Open year round, for those who enjoy winter camping. Near by you’ll find Sea Glass beach (aka Spindlers Beach), The Ovens Natural Park, Sand Dollar Beach, Hirtles Beach, Oxners Beach (usually peaceful), Gaff Point Hiking Trail, Indian Path Common Trails, and Kingburg beach to name a few. For shopping locally we have The Rose Bay General Store and Bistro with NSLC Outlet. You’ll find convenience items, seasonal produce, fresh baked goods, take out and dine in eating, a great selection of imported Specialty items, and authentic Nova Scotian products. A great spot to stop on the way back from the beach for a bite to eat and supplies. We also have the Bayport Pub at the beginning of Feltzen South Road. With Great pub classics and fresh hot fish and chips, you’ll want to let them handle the cooking for a night, but make sure to leave room for the best Ice Cream around. Get the Scoop located in Feltzen South, just a short distance from us here at Off the Beaten Trail. Look up these great places and more online for hours and specials.

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Black Rock Stables

2 sites · Tents10 acres · 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.

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Tent/Camper Camping by the Ocean!

1 site · RV, Tent4 acres · Head Of Jeddore, NS

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Unique Cabot Trail Campground

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · 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.

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Breezy Petals Camping Resort

6 sites · Lodging, Tents204 acres · Rines Creek, NS

Breezy Petals Camping Resort is a family oriented campground offering tenting, RVing, glamping as well as fun outdoor activities and music events.Our mission is to build a camping wonderland, where families and friends can discover true happiness, health and green lifestyle. Here you can forget all of your stress, just enjoy the great nature by listening birds singing, watching beaver swimming, discovering the secret from deep woods, observing starlight with telescope at night, relaxing your body with yoga by the dome..... So much more you could do.Come and join us, let's have some fun together!

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Ingomar Oceanfront Camping

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Shelburne, NS

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Urban Forest Getaway

2 sites · Tents1 acre · Halifax, NS

Only twenty minutes from Halifax and half way to Peggy’s Cove, this campground is the perfect spot. Park on the road and then it’s only a few minutes to the forest clearing. Plenty of room to pitch up to three large or small tents, plus a covered picnic table. Also features a composting outhouse! Available camp fire and wood when fires are permitted.

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Wild Islands Camping by the Sea

8 sites · Tents49 acres · Moser River, NS

Pitch your tent at the campsite of your choice, between several areas and locations on our beautiful wooded coastal properties on the Eastern shore of Nova Scotia, all located within a 2 minute walk from the main house. Hiking, fishing, biking, kayaking/canoeing/boating, swimming are just a few of the things to enjoy.

Dog-friendly getaways

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The Country

10 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · 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!

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Stoneybrooke Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents67 acres · Liverpool, NS

Welcome to Stoneybrooke Farm We are situated on 65 acres of beautiful land. We have pasture and woodland to explore. We are located minutes from some of Nova Scotia's most picturesque beaches, including Rissers Beach Provincial Park, Crescent and Green Bay Beaches. On the farm we have a herd of miniature goats, chickens, Kevin Bacon (pot belly pig) and a horse. Animals can be seen if arranged with host . We are working on nature trails through the natural forest. We encourage you to forage for your own fire wood but it can be purchased when available. We look forward to meeting you. If you would like to add a little extra to your getaway we have a Registered Massage Therapist and Acupuncturist on site . If you would like to book a treatment during your stay please contact host .

Booked 3 times

Island Point Resort

3 sites · RVs80 acres · 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.

Little Lake Retreat

1 site · Tent2 acres · Port Joli, NS

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Smokey View

1 site · RV1 acre · Sydney, NS

At the other side of the harbour is Ingonish Ferry. At one time the road around the harbour did not exist. People, horses and goods came across the bar by means of a ferry. There were many wharves with wooden ships tied up. The long white building on the corner used to be on the bar. A walk along the bar will award you with a view of the Keltic Lodge. Continue straight at the corner and you will find a trail that will take you to Ingonish beach.

Star Hosts in Nova Scotia

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Porters Peak

13 sites · Lodging250 acres · Halifax, NS

Breathe in the fresh air, unwind, reconnect, and recharge as you escape in the great outdoors. Porters Peak is an adventure getaway located in Porters Lake, only 40 minutes from Halifax. We offer over 250 acres of rolling hills, adventure activities and 2 unique types of accommodations; Safari Tents and Cozy Cabins. Built by Canadian adventurers, for adventurers of all types. Enjoy Luxurious Glamping Tents for Your Next Adventure. Relax in style with our luxurious glamping tents featuring plush bedding for a comfortable night's sleep. Enjoy cooking in our fully equipped outdoor kitchen and seating area, surrounded by beautifully landscaped surroundings. As the sun sets, cozy up around your personal fire pit and soak up the ambiance with solar lights illuminating your tent, or grill up some delicious food on your personal BBQ. Our glamping tents offer the perfect blend of comfort and nature for an unforgettable outdoor experience. Experience the magic of the great outdoors!

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Pickles Place

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Digby, NS

We have a half acre lake front lot with privacy. We have access directly to the lake from the lot and a laneway for a small boat as well. There is fishing, paddle boarding, boating, hiking and walking on these quiet roads in the wilderness. The Bay of Fundy is down the road maybe 2-5 min. If you want peace and quiet then here it is, a nice fresh lot on a lake out in the middle of no where. We DO NOT have any any of the equipment (kayaks, paddle boards and fishing equip) there you must bring your own. There is no washroom or electricity yet, so please be aware of this.

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Surfer's Shade

1 site · RV1 acre · Westphal, NS

Welcome to Surfer's Shade! Enjoy your private RV oasis! Located in Westphal, Nova Scotia just 25 minutes from Halifax International Airport, 30 minutes from downtown Halifax, 20 minutes from downtown Dartmouth, and less than 10 minutes from the most beautiful surfing beaches the area has to offer! Enjoy a private driveway, 50 amp and 30 amp connections, a fire pit by a brook in a forested area with string lights, hammocks, a picnic table, and a barbecue. Located in a quiet residential area on the outskirt of Halifax's urban core, this serene oasis offers the perfect blend of convenience and tranquility.

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4 Oaks Park

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · New Glasgow, NS

Learn more about this land:Beautiful cleared lot overlooking Barney’s River and a large interval with plenty of wildlife. Minutes from Northumberland Strait and beautiful Big Island BeachSite has access to River for Kayak or canoe launch which leads into Merigomish Harbour. Walking distance to convenience store and NSLC outlet. Easy drive to Cape George ( The Mini Trail ) and close to New Glasgow or Antigonish. We have beautiful orchards and blueberry fields, if you are here in July or August you can probably pick blueberries for breakfast. There is excellent biking and hiking nearby. The site has beautiful views of the surrounding area and very peaceful and quiet. You will have access to drinking water but no bathroom facilities. We are located between New Glasgow and Antigonish along the beautiful shore road called Route 245. Also, 10 minutes from TCH heading to Cape Breton. No toilet facility must be a self-contained RVBring all trash out that you bring in

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Green Oaks Camping

3 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Windsor, NS

-Scenic view of the Shubenacadie Canal -Back Country Camping Sites in Field -15 minutes from Highway 102 -20 minutes from Truro -30 minutes away from Burntcoat Head Park -Access to beautiful marshland wildlife -Tons of nearby rafting adventures -Many nearby provincial parks - Private location for tent and RV camping, pet friendly, car and trailer accessible

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Nova Scotia guide

Overview

Almost entirely surrounded by water, Nova Scotia is central to Canada’s maritime region. Ocean inlets sneak tendrils into the province’s forested interior, while seafront restaurants dole out fresh fish, lighthouses beckon ships to shore, and beach bonfires dot the coast. The region shines in summer, when most Nova Scotia campgrounds open and gulf currents warm the Atlantic for swimming and boating. Autumn’s crisp temperatures and colorful foliage are perfect for hikes through the Cape Breton highlands or a drive on the Cabot Trail, and winter snow lays a smooth foundation for cross-country skiing.

Cape Breton Island

Cape Breton Highlands National Park is ideal for camping in summer and hiking year-round, with old-growth boreal forests, river canyons, and plenty of sandy beaches. Campers can also consider taking a road trip along the coast and across the highlands on the scenic Cabot Trail highway. Further south, the saltwater Bras d’Or Lake is a sailing and swimming hotspot.

Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley

Here, you can experience the world’s most dramatic ocean tides in Fundy National Park, comb the beaches of Five Islands Provincial Park, or canoe through Kejimkujik National Park. Catch a glimpse of humpback and right whales during their summer migration—then, venture inland for fresh local produce and wine tastings at Annapolis Valley vineyards.

Eastern Shore

Head to Larencetown and Martinque beaches outside Halifax for some of the best cold-water surfing on Canada’s east coast. Visit the region’s authentic fishing communities on the way, then take a boat out to the 100 Wild Islands archipelago, where you can hike and camp in secluded coves and boreal rainforests.

Northumberland Shore

Plenty of warm-water beaches lie along the sheltered Northumberland Strait, as does a thriving local wine scene and Gaelic culture in Pictou, known as “the Birthplace of New Scotland." The region’s fishing industry also brings fresh lobster to area restaurants.

South Shore

The South Shore of Nova Scotia offers opportunities to dive into maritime history at colorful Old Town Lunenburg (home of the Bluenose II schooner), snap a picture of the Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, or get off the grid for a camping trip in one of the region’s wilderness areas—many of which feature thick canopied forests and white-sand beaches.