The best camping in Nova Scotia with campfires

·

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.

92% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Porters Peak

3. Porters Peak

91%
(23)
13 sites · Lodging · 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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$70
 / night
Private Home Near Beach

5. Private Home Near Beach

100%
(1)
1 site · Tent, RV · Eastern Passage, NS
I have a nice grassy and gravel space on the side of my home for an RV or a tent with easy access to a hose and electricity and extra parking. Nova Scotia is experiencing very dry weather with little rain in sight. I'm on well water and the water levels are low. I can offer bottled water for necessities but water usage from my home is limited. My backyard also has an above ground pool (currently being repaired) and firepit (when fires are allowed) for extra convenience. My yard is surrounded by trees and we often have wildlife visit us. It is very quiet and serene. It's a family oriented neighborhood so you will see and hear kids. Everyone helps each other out. We are also located 6km to Rainbow Haven Beach, 3km to the Cow Bay Moose and 3km to the local grocery store. Also 9.7km from the Woodside Ferry Terminal and 800m from the closest city bus stop.
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
CA$36
 / night
Murphy's Camping on the Ocean

7. Murphy's Camping on the Ocean

99%
(84)
40 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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 tourism operations 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. With the introduction of our brand new geo-domes and cottage, our establishment now offers 10 months of Wild Islands fun! A 1.5 km hiking trail is planned for September 2025, which will make it even easier to enjoy the Wild Islands Coast.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$39
 / night
Blueberry Run Trail RV Site

9. Blueberry Run Trail RV Site

99%
(72)
1 site · RV · Grand Desert, NS
***CLOSED FOR THE SEASON. See you in May 2026.*** Only 1 RV site on our 11 acre property located on a dead-end road within a small residential community. Newly groomed trail is located 20 feet East of the site so you can walk, run, bike, ATV or hike the trail. NOTE: Only 1 single RV permitted on site. No additional units, tents or trailers permitted. Reservation will be cancelled if not adhered to. Site Features: RV Pad is 65' long by 20' wide with room for slides - 20 AMP electrical (not recommended for RVs that require 50 AMPs unless you have generator power to supplement demand.) - Fast WiFi included on-site. - Gray water hookup on-site so you don't need to worry about filling your tank. - Portable black water tank rental available (Must be added to booking for additional fee). - Wood deck with covered gazebo, privacy walls and bug netting for extra comfort. - Fire pit provided (additional fee for firewood). Check Burn ban updated 2pm daily at https://novascotia.ca/burnsafe/ - Propane fire pit and propane tank available to rent. (OK to use during fire bans) - 20 to 40 minutes to Dartmouth and Halifax City via Hwy #107 or #207. - 5 to 15 minutes to many popular ocean beaches and surfing. - Full shopping centre within 10 minutes in Porters Lake. (Fuel, grocery, liquor, pharmacy, vet, restaurants, hardware store, bank, pizza shops, cheesecake and more) - 7 km long newly groomed trail for biking, running, walking and ATVs. (4.6 miles) Self-check-in time is 2pm and checkout is no later than 11am. If the site is ready earlier, we will send a message to you. We hope you enjoy your stay and if you need anything, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
CA$50
 / night
Owl's Hollow is located on the scenic Tupper Lake in Queen's Country

13. Owl's Hollow Eco-Therapy Glamping

100%
(54)
2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Caledonia, NS
Get back to nature at our lakefront eco-therapy camping and glamping properties 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. 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
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$64
 / night
Festival layout during covid (250 max attendence).   Most tenters setup to right of row of cars.

15. 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$25
 / night
FORT NOVA

16. FORT NOVA

100%
(38)
10 sites · Tents, RVs · 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. Neat! 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, which makes her home in the driveway. She's worth a visit! - TENT ADVANCED LEVEL LAKESIDE is by far the most beautiful; however, it is a small area, located on the edge of the property, and I can't be responsible for the neighbours to a certain extent. Fort Nova is your home for as long as you choose. Let's get campy! **KEEP IN MIND THAT THERE MAY BE OTHERS STAYING THERE** But there are multiple areas to choose from, including: the lawn, living amongst the pines, a forest clearing, or even lakeside (it's rough back there). You can have complete privacy and feel free to reach out to me at the house if you need anything. For those with RV's, there is an exterior outlet and a water spigot, but please remember, others might be staying there so we need to play nice and share! On the property, there is: - A decent-sized lake (I wish I had a canoe... :( ) - 1700's abandoned bridge - Lots of foraging (Won't be held liable if ya eat something silly!) - Rail Trail (runs through the property) So many 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) - Provincial Parks - Boxing Rock Brewing Co.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$30
 / night

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.

92% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Porters Peak

3. Porters Peak

91%
(23)
13 sites · Lodging · 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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$70
 / night
Private Home Near Beach

5. Private Home Near Beach

100%
(1)
1 site · Tent, RV · Eastern Passage, NS
I have a nice grassy and gravel space on the side of my home for an RV or a tent with easy access to a hose and electricity and extra parking. Nova Scotia is experiencing very dry weather with little rain in sight. I'm on well water and the water levels are low. I can offer bottled water for necessities but water usage from my home is limited. My backyard also has an above ground pool (currently being repaired) and firepit (when fires are allowed) for extra convenience. My yard is surrounded by trees and we often have wildlife visit us. It is very quiet and serene. It's a family oriented neighborhood so you will see and hear kids. Everyone helps each other out. We are also located 6km to Rainbow Haven Beach, 3km to the Cow Bay Moose and 3km to the local grocery store. Also 9.7km from the Woodside Ferry Terminal and 800m from the closest city bus stop.
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
CA$36
 / night
Murphy's Camping on the Ocean

7. Murphy's Camping on the Ocean

99%
(84)
40 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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 tourism operations 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. With the introduction of our brand new geo-domes and cottage, our establishment now offers 10 months of Wild Islands fun! A 1.5 km hiking trail is planned for September 2025, which will make it even easier to enjoy the Wild Islands Coast.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$39
 / night
Blueberry Run Trail RV Site

9. Blueberry Run Trail RV Site

99%
(72)
1 site · RV · Grand Desert, NS
***CLOSED FOR THE SEASON. See you in May 2026.*** Only 1 RV site on our 11 acre property located on a dead-end road within a small residential community. Newly groomed trail is located 20 feet East of the site so you can walk, run, bike, ATV or hike the trail. NOTE: Only 1 single RV permitted on site. No additional units, tents or trailers permitted. Reservation will be cancelled if not adhered to. Site Features: RV Pad is 65' long by 20' wide with room for slides - 20 AMP electrical (not recommended for RVs that require 50 AMPs unless you have generator power to supplement demand.) - Fast WiFi included on-site. - Gray water hookup on-site so you don't need to worry about filling your tank. - Portable black water tank rental available (Must be added to booking for additional fee). - Wood deck with covered gazebo, privacy walls and bug netting for extra comfort. - Fire pit provided (additional fee for firewood). Check Burn ban updated 2pm daily at https://novascotia.ca/burnsafe/ - Propane fire pit and propane tank available to rent. (OK to use during fire bans) - 20 to 40 minutes to Dartmouth and Halifax City via Hwy #107 or #207. - 5 to 15 minutes to many popular ocean beaches and surfing. - Full shopping centre within 10 minutes in Porters Lake. (Fuel, grocery, liquor, pharmacy, vet, restaurants, hardware store, bank, pizza shops, cheesecake and more) - 7 km long newly groomed trail for biking, running, walking and ATVs. (4.6 miles) Self-check-in time is 2pm and checkout is no later than 11am. If the site is ready earlier, we will send a message to you. We hope you enjoy your stay and if you need anything, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
CA$50
 / night
Owl's Hollow is located on the scenic Tupper Lake in Queen's Country

13. Owl's Hollow Eco-Therapy Glamping

100%
(54)
2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Caledonia, NS
Get back to nature at our lakefront eco-therapy camping and glamping properties 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. 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
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$64
 / night
Festival layout during covid (250 max attendence).   Most tenters setup to right of row of cars.

15. 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$25
 / night
FORT NOVA

16. FORT NOVA

100%
(38)
10 sites · Tents, RVs · 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. Neat! 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, which makes her home in the driveway. She's worth a visit! - TENT ADVANCED LEVEL LAKESIDE is by far the most beautiful; however, it is a small area, located on the edge of the property, and I can't be responsible for the neighbours to a certain extent. Fort Nova is your home for as long as you choose. Let's get campy! **KEEP IN MIND THAT THERE MAY BE OTHERS STAYING THERE** But there are multiple areas to choose from, including: the lawn, living amongst the pines, a forest clearing, or even lakeside (it's rough back there). You can have complete privacy and feel free to reach out to me at the house if you need anything. For those with RV's, there is an exterior outlet and a water spigot, but please remember, others might be staying there so we need to play nice and share! On the property, there is: - A decent-sized lake (I wish I had a canoe... :( ) - 1700's abandoned bridge - Lots of foraging (Won't be held liable if ya eat something silly!) - Rail Trail (runs through the property) So many 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) - Provincial Parks - Boxing Rock Brewing Co.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$30
 / night

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