The best camping in Nova Scotia with campfires

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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.

94% (1.1K) 333 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Nova Scotia

Big Belle Farm

1. Big Belle Farm

97%
(233)
Mabou, NS · 372 sites · Tents, RVs
INSTRUCTIONS When you reserve your tent/rv make sure to select the day you want to check in until the day you are leaving. For example, to stay all weekend, select Friday to Sunday. To stay only Friday night, select Friday to Saturday. Selecting only one date will not reserve the date you want as it expects a start and end date to select any given date or date range. ABOUT Big Belle Farm is surrounded by large hayfields on the front of our property and at the back behind where the concert will take place. Tenters will be camping in the front fields and RVs will behind the concert field. When you come onsite there will be someone to meet you who will point out the locations were you can setup your tent or RV. There will be event Portable Toilets on site and access to water near the concert grounds.
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Toilets
Potable water
Glory Ridge Campground

2. Glory Ridge Campground

96%
(27)
Arisaig, NS · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
A small boutique campground with a small cluster of 3 way RV sites cleverly situated on the top of a ridge that overlooks the Northumberland Strait. Glorious sunsets are an almost guaranteed nightly attraction. The quiet serenity of Glory Ridge is a remarkable delight. Amenities include a bespoken glamorous glamping tent cabin, a curious cob pizza oven, an amazing outside shower made out of recycled political signs and a tenting campground cluster nestled among the trees in the hollow of an old orchard. Glory Ridge Campground is uniquely situated to create a unique friendly and warm experience.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

3. Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

100%
(207)
Advocate Harbour, NS · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
Island Breeze Campground

4. Island Breeze Campground

NS · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located just minutes from the beach on the Bay of Fundy with the world’s highest tides. Ten kilometres from the hiker’s paradise; Cape Chignecto Park and world class restaurants in Advocate Harbour. Adventure awaits every day in Spencer’s Island. The campground is cut into an organic blueberry field and has a vault toilet on site for guests.
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Toilets
Medway Community Forest Campground

5. Medway Community Forest Campground

100%
(5)
Digby, NS · 5 sites
Book your stay at one of 5 beautiful hike in camp sites in the Medway Community Forest License Area near Lower Stave Lake and Stake lake. This is a Backcountry Self Service Campground. Gear must be hiked in. Food must be properly stored (in vehicle or in one of our pre-installed bear hangs). Garbage must be packed out. There is no potable water onsite – please supply your own drinking and cooking water. At Stave Lake Campground, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful nature of interior southwest Nova Scotia. With only 5 sites, the campground offers a peaceful, back-country style camping experience dispersed amongst old growth hemlock, spruce, and maple with access to associated hiking trails around Stave Lake. With a canoe or kayak, the campground provides a great starting place for exploring the adjacent Tobeatic and Medway Lakes Wilderness Areas. The campground is also a 10-minute drive from Kejimkujik National Park with dozens of maintained hiking trails, old-growth forest, and canoe and kayak rentals, and only 5 minutes from the 4-mile stillwater trail, a beautiful waterfront trail managed by the MCFC. The Stave Lake Campground is operated by the Medway Community Forest Cooperative. Our mission is to support local communities through sustainable and ecologically based forest management. One way we strive to meet our mission is to manage the forest to maximize multiple economic, social, and environmental values - The Medway Community Forest Campground allows us to diversify revenue sources while protecting provincially recognized old-growth forest that surrounds a portion of Stave Lake! The campground is a backcountry style camping experience with front country access. The farthest sites are about 500 meters from the parking lot. Gear must be carried in! The campground has outhouses, firewood available for pre-purchase, and bear hangs for storing food. Each campsite has a firepit, picnic table, and tent pad. There is a lovely trail system associated with the campground. We recommend waterproof hiking boots as water pools in some spots! Only firewood purchased at the campground is allowed in accordance with the Provincial “Don’t Move Firewood” campaign. Campfires are permitted in accordance with provincial regulations. Campers must be aware of and follow the burning restrictions updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/burnsafe/.
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Toilets
Picnic table
Breezy Petals Camping Resort

6. Breezy Petals Camping Resort

94%
(49)
Rines Creek, NS · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging
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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Showers
Black Rock Stables

7. Black Rock Stables

97%
(98)
Black Rock, NS · 2 sites
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.
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Sleep By The Sea

8. Sleep By The Sea

100%
(20)
Tangier, NS · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
This unique oceanfront property on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia has been actively being farmed for the last 175 years and also was once home to a lobster canning factory. This property is suitable for tents or small Rv's up to approximately 20 feet. Included is a deck to haul camper up beside as well as a BBQ, campfire pit, toilet and an outdoor kitchen and now we have added an outdoor shower. While here feel free to take a stroll on this 12 acre property to visit the cows or just to take in the most spectacular views of the 100 wild Islands. Also a launch area is available on the property for kayaks and paddle boards so visitors can explore the several Islands and beaches that the area has to offer. Sheet Harbour is approximately a 25 minute drive away and there you will find gas, groceries etc...
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BeaverRiverBeach - Coastal Camping

9. BeaverRiverBeach - Coastal Camping

100%
(8)
Beaver River, NS · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Beaver River Beach - Coastal camping, a unique coastal campground offering scenic stays for tent campers, RVs, vans, overlanders, and guests looking for a cozy cabin escape. Our sites are spread throughout the property, with some overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and others tucked beside a peaceful pond and stream that flows to the sea. Whether you're waking up to the sound of crashing waves or relaxing beside calm waters, you'll find the perfect place to slow down and reconnect with nature. Choose from drive-in campsites or our signature beachfront A-frame cabin, all surrounded by fresh ocean air, spectacular sunsets, and easy access to the shoreline. While the campground is located on private property, the beach access road passes through the grounds and provides public access to the beach. This creates a friendly, laid-back coastal atmosphere where you may see locals and visitors coming and going during the day, while evenings and overnight remain quiet and peaceful. Beaver River Beach Coastal Camping is perfect for travelers who appreciate simple, self-sufficient camping and the beauty of Nova Scotia's rugged coastline. Come unwind, explore, and experience coastal camping at its best.
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Urban Forest Getaway

10. Urban Forest Getaway

100%
(17)
Halifax, NS · 1 site
Only twenty minutes from Halifax and half way to Peggy’s Cove, this campground is the perfect spot for a quiet, family friendly experience. Convenient parking on the road next to the entrance and then it’s only a minutes walk 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. A gas BBQ is available for a small extra fee of $6.00 or a tabletop grill is supplied, just bring your own green propane bottles :)
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Toilets
Picnic table
The Cove at Hirtle Lake

11. The Cove at Hirtle Lake

100%
(4)
Liverpool, NS · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Private, secluded campsites surrounded by towering pines, kilometers of trails, and a stunning lake. On the property, you’ll find a cozy off-grid cabin that sleeps five, multiple campsites for tents or RVs, kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, a swimming dock, firepits, picnic tables, and even a wood-burning sauna!
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
Smokey View

12. Smokey View

100%
(49)
Sydney, NS · 1 site
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.
Pets
Murphy's Camping on the Ocean

13. Murphy's Camping on the Ocean

99%
(84)
Tangier, NS · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wild Islands Camping by the Sea

14. Wild Islands Camping by the Sea

100%
(31)
Moser River, NS · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Choose between several dispersed camp sites on our beautiful wooded coastal property on eastern shore Nova Scotia to pitch your tent or park your camper at the campsite of your choice, all located across the Highway from the main house. Hiking, fishing, biking, kayaking/canoeing/boating, swimming are just a few of the things to enjoy.
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Toilets
Potable water
Live Life In Tents Campground

15. Live Life In Tents Campground

99%
(69)
Baddeck, NS · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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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Fundy Spray Campground

16. Fundy Spray Campground

100%
(2)
Smiths Cove, NS · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Fundy Spray Campground — a relaxed, spacious place to camp just minutes from Digby and the Bay of Fundy. We offer large, open sites for both RV and tent campers, making it easy to settle in, stretch out, and enjoy a quieter pace of travel. Whether you’re passing through for a night or staying a little longer to explore the coast, this is a simple, comfortable basecamp without the crowds. Our location is ideal for road trippers and ferry travelers, with quick access to Digby, whale watching tours, and the Digby–Saint John ferry. You’ll also be close to the dramatic tides and coastal views that make the Bay of Fundy one of the most unique landscapes in the world. We focus on what matters most: clean facilities, easy access, fair pricing, and plenty of space to relax. Good fit for: • RV travelers looking for an easy overnight stop • Tent campers who want quiet, wooded space • Families who prefer simple, no-frills camping • Anyone exploring the Digby / Bay of Fundy area If you’re looking for a straightforward, affordable place to camp near the water — with room to breathe — you’ll feel right at home here.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Bollong’s Point, Popes Harbour

17. Bollong’s Point, Popes Harbour

Tangier, NS · 1 site
The property is a 7-acre peninsula in Pope's Harbour, located in the heart of the 100 Wild Islands Protected Area along Nova Scotia's eastern shore. It is a kayaker's paradise. Dozens of islands, many with beaches and campsites, can be reached with very little effort from the property. The property features private oceanfront campsites, a boat launch, a small hiking trail around the perimeter, secure multi-day parking for guests who wish to camp on the islands, and free local advice on where to find the hidden gems throughout the archipelago. Just 15 minutes away, Taylor Head Provincial Park offers two beautiful beaches and excellent hiking trails. The nearby town of Sheet Harbour is also worth a visit, with a great pub, a microbrewery, and other local amenities.
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Lusty Lagoon

18. Lusty Lagoon

88%
(8)
Blockhouse, NS · 1 site · Tent, RV
Location, Location, Location! Looking for a convenient place to pitch a tent while enjoying the sites and sounds of Lunenburg, Mahone Bay, Bridgewater or the Bern art maze? Just want quick access onto Rails to Trails? Not to mention a minute away from an incredible coffee shop, Chicory Blue, amazing French bakery, Boulangerie, one of a kind vintage stop, the four points vintage market, and be sure to stop into The Barn for Sunday Bun day, definitely the best cinnamon bun you’ll ever have. This old park turned huge single private campsite is nestled smack dab in the middle of all these popular destinations, and has direct access to endless kilometres of trail. Bring the dogs for walks through quiet trails, while picking fresh blackberries. Enjoy a complimentary tent and fire wood! Conveniently located right off the old highway, this site gives you quick access to some of the best of what Nova Scotia has to offer! It’s well protected by trees, it’s private, dry, could fit multiple vehicles if need be! So stop in, pitch a tent, have a fire (restrictions permitting), watch the stars and enjoy Lusty Lagoon as a wonderful memory as you travel across this beautiful province.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Tent Camping by the Ocean!

19. Tent Camping by the Ocean!

99%
(62)
Head Of Jeddore, NS · 1 site · Tent, RV
**The road to my property is open, Google is wrong** Nestled in a quaint old Fishing Town is a 4-Acre Forest property that hasn’t been touched since 1885! This land overlooks the North Atlantic Ocean, with a 25ft bank at the edge of the property, and almost 200ft of stone beach! No potable water on this property (well water is available by hose for cooking/cleaning/showering), but 10 minutes by car, you’ll find a Sobeys, a pub, a Home Hardware, and small local shops that carry camping supplies and so much more! There is a composting toilet being built, please either bury the bag when you are done, or double bag it and leave it in the garbage box at the end of the driveway. As a septic system is now on the property, I am unable to provide access to the waterfront campsite for camp-cars/RVs/trailers. 30 min drive away is the infamous Martinique Beach, a very popular surfing spot! Lots of hiking and site seeing available nearby as well. A long driveway is the entry point to the camping site. All I ask is that each camper leave the property better than they found it. As you depart, another camper is most likely arriving, so please keep that in mind. Enjoy the peace under the stars, and fall asleep to the sounds of the waves breaking against the shore, and the leaves rustling in the breeze! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- There is currently a Tiny Home on the property being built, and it is currently occupied by the property owner full-time. Garbage pick-up in this area only allows one black plastic bag to be removed every 2 weeks. If your garbage is in a clear bag the city will take it and you can put your sealed garbage in a clear bag in the wood box at the end of the driveway. The city ONLY takes clear bags. Recycling is allowed in blue bags. Due to this restriction, I am not able to handle all the campers garbage -- please take any that you create with you if you do not have clear bags. If any camper is found to have stayed past the checkout time, they will be charged for another night's stay. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you and I hope you enjoy your stay!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
FORT NOVA

20. FORT NOVA

100%
(42)
Jordan Falls, NS · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets

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