The best bell tents in Nova Scotia

Name: Nova Scotia
Address: Nova Scotia
Rating: 4.833

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

97% (95) • 7 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Nova Scotia

Ninestone Retreat

1. Ninestone Retreat

100%

(8)

Princeport, NS · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Discover 90 acres of secluded heaven nestled high above the Shubenacadie River. Wander along our 2 km of groomed trails or forge your own path through the enchanting woods. Witness the ebb and flow of the tide every 12 hours and marvel at the river rafters as they glide by. Befriend our two majestic horses and, during the seasonal apple harvest, indulge in picking ripe fruits straight from the trees. Delight in the spectacle of bald eagles gracefully soaring above the cliffside, or lose yourself in the mesmerizing expanse of stars overhead. For the adventurous spirits, set off on your bike or ATV to explore the rugged terrain. Just 15 minutes away lies the historical town of Maitland, waiting to be explored. This is an experience unlike any other in Nova Scotia — secluded, private, and simply stunning. With several different sites available, some equipped with wifi while others offer greater seclusion, riverfront access, or tranquil wooded areas, there's something to suit every preference. Surrounded on three sides by the river, immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of our secluded sanctuary.

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Live Life In Tents Campground

2. Live Life In Tents Campground

99%

(79)

Baddeck, NS · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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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Fainne Crann Camping

3. Fainne Crann Camping

95%

(11)

Baddeck, NS · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging

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.” 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.

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Sally's Brook Cabins, Glamping Tent

4. Sally's Brook Cabins, Glamping Tent

94%

(17)

Englishtown, NS · 7 sites

Sally’s Brook is located in Unama’ki, within the unceded ancestral territory of the Mikmaq people. Sally’s Brook is an Eco-friendly property in the heart of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada. We have three wilderness cabins and a yurt available for rent year-round, and three Lotus Belle glamping tents in the warmer weather. We have a wood-fired sauna and communal CookHouse kitchen-dining building for guests. We also have the Hive Dome! This 26 foot year-round space is the perfect place to host your own event with us, gather for our movie nights, board games, playing music, and retreat from bad weather with so much space to move around. Guest Use of the Hive: While you are staying on the property, we welcome guests to reserve time in the Hive for their own private use. Our staff will prepare this space for you by lighting the wood stove, stocking wood and heating it up for your arrival. Stretch, practice yoga, play games or music, or celebrate with your group! $30 + HST for a 3.5 hour reservation to current guests Morning, afternoon or evening (until 10:00pm) reservations are available

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Regina

July 2026

3 nights at Sally's Brook Cabins, Glamping Tent

We had an absolutely fabulous time at Sally's Brook. It's hard to describe the specialness of this property. Lisa and Glen took such good care of us. Glen gave us a little tour around some of the woods outside the "Hive" and showed us their sustainable energy set up. Lisa warmly welcomed us -- especially warmly lit the fire for the sauna (which was amazing) -- and gave us great recommendations (e.g., a local puffin tour!). We had fun hiking up the hills to our glamping tent, and Lisa also was there to give us a ride up if needed. We got a kick out of the composting toilet and loved sleeping in sheets way nicer than the ones we've got at home. For us, the Aurora Tent was a nice balance between outdoor camping and cabin life. Perfect location for start/end of the Cabot Trail.

Michael

July 2026

With kids

Weekend Trip to Live Life In Tents Campground

Great view, great big night sky Washroom, shower clean

Evan

July 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sally's Brook Cabins, Glamping Tent

Stayed at the Auraura Tent. About 5 minute hike up to the tent. (Keyword UP). The experience was well thought out with care and more comforts then I was expecting. Power in the tent with a fan and a lamp. Open the skylights to view the stars at night. A small wood stove for the cooler months and a BBQ. Did you forget your lighter, flashlight or bug spray? Don't worry, they have you covered. A well stocked and very pleasant kitchen was available. (You bring the food). Some of the off grid elements, like toilets, were a bit different but well documented. The site has lots of trail markers and solar lights to help you get around. In the end, bring you clothes and food, almost everything else you need is on site. It was mostly quiet, though I could hear the regular loading and unloading of the nearby ferry. All in all, a great stay. Would go again.

Liz

July 2025

With pets

2 nights at Sally's Brook Cabins, Glamping Tent

Beautiful location and the tent was great! Wonderful communication from the property manager. Would love to return.

Dana

September 2024

2 nights at Sally's Brook Cabins, Glamping Tent

The whole glamping and community experience is thoughtfully designed. We stayed in the Aurora yurt and loved watching the nearly full moon glide across the sky behind a silhouette of tree tops from our comfy bed. After a long day of riding, we were first daunted by the steep climb up to our lodging, hauling all our gear. It was worth the extra effort and every step when all was said and done. It was a cooler time of the year, so the heated communal kitchen was a welcome and warm respite. The low footprint off-grid details were impressive and very inspiring. It made our first stay in Cape Breton memorable and our desire to come back again very strong.

zoe

September 2024

Weekend Trip to Sally's Brook Cabins, Glamping Tent

WOW!! Such a beautiful and unique experience. Went for one night with my boyfriend and we instantly wish we could've booked another night. The property is absolutely phenomenal with everything planned out to the t. Will definitely be returning!!

Patrice

July 2024

2 nights at Sally's Brook Cabins, Glamping Tent

Everything about Sally's Brook far exceeded my expectations. I expected that we would be roughing it, but nothing about the place was rough. The tent had a comfortable bed and pillows, with a fold out bed for my son. We had electricity, and a power bar to charge our devices. We were even provided with a headlamp and flashlight. The kitchen was fully stocked. Not only were we able to use the pots, pans, and dishes, but they had coffee, cream, and food for us. Every building was brand new, clean and comfortable with high end supplies. It was very posh. We were very pleasantly surprised by the place. I would really like to go back in the winter to go snowshoeing. I highly recommend staying here. It is comfortable, inexpensive and the staff were not just extremely helpful but very friendly. Thank you!

Amberly

October 2023

Weekend Trip to Sally's Brook Cabins, Glamping Tent

We had a wonderful stay! The view and facilities were great.

Isabelle

July 2022

1 night at Sally's Brook Cabins, Glamping Tent

A really nice experience! The host was really welcoming. She texted us during the day to be sure we didn’t get lost. She waited our arrived for giving us lights. Every small intention makes the experience unique and pleasant. The bed was comfortable. Everything was really clean. It was a little cold during the night, but the bed sheet was really warm and heavy. Two chairs with a little table were in a mosquito net just beside the tent. It had also a cooler outside. In the tent, there were beautiful lights and we could see the sky from the bed making the mood romantic (for lovers). It had a sauna on the site (2 min of walk). We had electricity. We are really happy.