The best great views campgrounds in Nova Scotia

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.

95% (568)

Top-rated campgrounds

Relaxing in the hammock enjoying the views

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.

95% (568)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

100%

(177)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Advocate Harbour, NS

2. Green Oaks Camping

95%

(32)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · 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

3. 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.

4. Wild Islands Camping by the Sea

100%

(24)

7 sites · Tents, RVs · Moser River, NS

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.

5. Ingomar Oceanfront Camping

98%

(30)

11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Shelburne, NS

6. 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.

7. Black Rock Stables

97%

(89)

2 sites · Tents · Black Rock, NS

If you enjoy beautiful views of lakes/ocean and mountains, gorgeous sunsets, stargazing, the sound of the waves and bell buoys then Black Rock Stables campsite is the place for you to pitch your tent. Located at the end of the farm on a cliff (6’ wire fence) overlooking the beautiful Brasd’Or lakes. You are welcome to have a campfire (wood available for $5.00), but check the Nova Scotia Government site to make certain campfires are permitted. Please feel free to visit the animals on the farm (horses, goats, rabbits and chickens); however, children must be accompanied by an adult. Also, please do not bring dogs near the farm animals.

8. Sleep By The Sea

100%

(8)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Tangier, NS

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. Sheet Harbour is approximately a 25 minute drive away and there you will find gas, groceries etc...

9. Live Life In Tents Campground

99%

(61)

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

This was one of the original homesteads in the Margarees. There was an old sawmill on site which was used to build the house and barn. It was sold to a man who started renovations for a summer house but ended up listing it for sale. I purchased it and completely renovated the 100-year-old house. Shortly after, my brother and I started an outfitting company with no plan of building a campground, but in 2017 we saw a great opportunity for building something unique. We wanted to keep a backwoods camping feel, but yet create it around a hostel-inspired environment. We launched June 1, 2018 and are in full swing now. We look forward to meeting you and will help you out in any way to make your trip here something to remember. Adventure awaits at this eco-camping hostel offering a natural setting, overlooking a picturesque valley. This location offers close to off-grid camping with a twist of comfort; furnished Glamping tents, sleeping up to 4 people per tent on a queen bed with twin camping beds for extra guests. Cooking gear, bedding, and towels are provided. Each tent, located at this eco-hostel, has its own campfire pit, with a solar outdoor shower on site and beautiful views of the river valley.

10. Accolade Retreat Kevin 902-292-1530

57%

(22)

10 sites · Tents, RVs · Chéticamp, NS

Discover a 24-acre haven for off-grid camping in Cheticamp, Nova Scotia, nestled at the foothills of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and conveniently situated directly across from the Gypsum Mine. This scenic property features an artisan well providing potable water, strategically located in the expansive 24-acre cleared field at the rear. This property is completely off grid and not for timid campers. if you are looking for complete privacy and across the road from the gypsum mine and a 20 minute walk to town, on the trail, then you will love it here! It is very rustic and not for the faint of heart. During the summer months, we operate a hostel on-site, offering access to washroom and shower facilities as needed. These washroom/shower facilities are NOT accessible in the winter. This space is ideally suited for off-grid camping enthusiasts who share a like-minded appreciation for nature. Please note that visitors are responsible for their own waste disposal arrangements. If you find this area intriguing, feel free to reach out to Kevin at 902-292-1530 or Charyl at 867-688-4611, via call or text for more information.

11. Tent/Camper Camping by the Ocean!

99%

(59)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Head Of Jeddore, NS

12. Smokey View

100%

(44)

1 site · RV · 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.

Camper favorites in Nova Scotia

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Black Rock Stables

97%

(89)

2 sites · Tents · Black Rock, NS

If you enjoy beautiful views of lakes/ocean and mountains, gorgeous sunsets, stargazing, the sound of the waves and bell buoys then Black Rock Stables campsite is the place for you to pitch your tent. Located at the end of the farm on a cliff (6’ wire fence) overlooking the beautiful Brasd’Or lakes. You are welcome to have a campfire (wood available for $5.00), but check the Nova Scotia Government site to make certain campfires are permitted. Please feel free to visit the animals on the farm (horses, goats, rabbits and chickens); however, children must be accompanied by an adult. Also, please do not bring dogs near the farm animals.

Sleep By The Sea

100%

(8)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Tangier, NS

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. Sheet Harbour is approximately a 25 minute drive away and there you will find gas, groceries etc...

Live Life In Tents Campground

99%

(61)

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

This was one of the original homesteads in the Margarees. There was an old sawmill on site which was used to build the house and barn. It was sold to a man who started renovations for a summer house but ended up listing it for sale. I purchased it and completely renovated the 100-year-old house. Shortly after, my brother and I started an outfitting company with no plan of building a campground, but in 2017 we saw a great opportunity for building something unique. We wanted to keep a backwoods camping feel, but yet create it around a hostel-inspired environment. We launched June 1, 2018 and are in full swing now. We look forward to meeting you and will help you out in any way to make your trip here something to remember. Adventure awaits at this eco-camping hostel offering a natural setting, overlooking a picturesque valley. This location offers close to off-grid camping with a twist of comfort; furnished Glamping tents, sleeping up to 4 people per tent on a queen bed with twin camping beds for extra guests. Cooking gear, bedding, and towels are provided. Each tent, located at this eco-hostel, has its own campfire pit, with a solar outdoor shower on site and beautiful views of the river valley.

Accolade Retreat Kevin 902-292-1530

57%

(22)

10 sites · Tents, RVs · Chéticamp, NS

Discover a 24-acre haven for off-grid camping in Cheticamp, Nova Scotia, nestled at the foothills of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and conveniently situated directly across from the Gypsum Mine. This scenic property features an artisan well providing potable water, strategically located in the expansive 24-acre cleared field at the rear. This property is completely off grid and not for timid campers. if you are looking for complete privacy and across the road from the gypsum mine and a 20 minute walk to town, on the trail, then you will love it here! It is very rustic and not for the faint of heart. During the summer months, we operate a hostel on-site, offering access to washroom and shower facilities as needed. These washroom/shower facilities are NOT accessible in the winter. This space is ideally suited for off-grid camping enthusiasts who share a like-minded appreciation for nature. Please note that visitors are responsible for their own waste disposal arrangements. If you find this area intriguing, feel free to reach out to Kevin at 902-292-1530 or Charyl at 867-688-4611, via call or text for more information.

Tent/Camper Camping by the Ocean!

99%

(59)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Head Of Jeddore, NS

Smokey View

100%

(44)

1 site · RV · 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.

Stories from the community

W

Wendy

October 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

Wow! Double wow!! By far the best Hipcamp we’ve stayed at! Spacious private grassy sites with expansive views of the Bay of Fundy. The cleanest cutest pit toilet you will ever have the pleasure of visiting. Dan is a responsive and helpful host. Would like to have met the man who provides such a memorable experience for people he’s never met! You want to stay here, trust me!

The beautiful bay side view from the property

P

Patricia

October 2025

21 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Green Oaks Camping

Loved the location am me view. Wonderful for dogs

Bill

October 2025

22 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Green Oaks Camping

Great spot with a great view of the effects of the Fundy Bay tidal shift on rivers. The host met us and escorted us to the spot. We parked in a grassy field with beautiful views. We were joined by friends in their own van and it made for a lovely evening.

M

Myles

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Black Rock Stables

Nicest view with a lot of protection from the wind and rain.

Victoria

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

2 nights at Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

Absolutely beautiful! What view! It's an off grid camping spot in the most beautiful area. There is an outhouse that was clean. Dan was quick to respond to any questions I had and check in to make sure I was okay or needed anything. That view though is everything. I would wake up looking out at that view everyday if I could. Also had 5g out there which was nice to still be connected. I will definitely be staying here again.

Location of the 5 woodland camp sites. Campsite 1 is the nearest campsite in this photo.

Marnie

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Big Belle Farm

Clear directions and beautiful views, perfect spot to pitch a tent for the night

K

Kayla

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

Tent camping here was wonderful! It was clean, the bathroom was nice, the view, and was nicely secluded! I highly recommend staying here.

D

Donald

October 2025

22 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Murphy's Camping on the Ocean

Beautiful waterfront views from almost every site. We visited in early October so the campground wasn’t very crowded. Electric, water, fire ring and nice picnic table at our site. Older bathhouse with shower that was well maintained and clean. Would recommend staying here.

F

Fred

September 2025

25 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Green Oaks Camping

We called ahead and Quinton met us as we drove in and showed us to the site. We had our choice of spots because we were the only ones there. We watched the tidal bore come up the river and a mild sunset in the orchard. Early in the morning, we heard some ruffled grouse calling. A very peaceful stay.

Landing is 25 feet deep to bank, 30 feet wide.

J

John

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Smokey View

This was a truly exceptional spot with a beautiful view out over the water. On one side was a grassy area and steps leading down to the water's edge; on the other a hidden away picnic table and a firepit with bench and firewood supplied. Blair was welcoming and helpful with suggestions for things to do in the area. Highly, highly recommended.

S

Stephanie

September 2025

14 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Smokey View

The host was accommodating and friendly. The site was fantastic and the photos don't do it justice. We're already hoping to stay here again the next time we come up the CBI.

K

Ken

September 2025

19 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Tent/Camper Camping by the Ocean!

What a great place to end the summer, great views along with the relaxing sounds of the ocean waves hitting the shore. Thank you for sharing your space Michelle.

R

Raggy

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sleep By The Sea

Jeff's place had all the amenities we needed and more. Very well thought out spot with an amazing view. Jeff and family were very kind and helpful!

Damian

September 2025

24 ft campervan

1 night at Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

We spent one night there and it was a great site! The views were amazing and the site was very clean. We plan to swing by on our way back through in a few weeks if we get a chance.

Douglas

September 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

3 nights at Murphy's Camping on the Ocean

nice people - great views. bathrooms need updating desperately.

D

David

September 2025

22 ft campervan

4 nights at Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

A beautiful camp site. Perched in a field up on a hill side over looking the bay of fundy. A sweet spot. Very secluded. A 10 minute walk down to the beach where we had a nice walk at low tide. Chignecto Park in West Advocate was closed due to the drought so no hiking there. Otherwise though a great stay. Thank you!

Yvonne

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Ingomar Oceanfront Camping

My hosts upgraded my pitch due to unforseen issues prior to arrival and I can heartily recommend a bell tent. There's so many little extras that, for anyone mes used to camping, will make this a joyous place to stay. Would I come back? You betcha. Great communication, beautiful situation and as much peace and quiet as you want

H

Hattie

September 2025

22 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Murphy's Camping on the Ocean

We absolutely loved MURPHYs campground! Ryan and gang were so friendly and helpful and the scenery and atmosphere were amazing. Such a relaxing wonderful taste of Nova Scotia As a former owner of a family business the character of the Murphy family shows in the care they show in all aspects of the property.

Priscilla

September 2025

15 ft travel trailer

7 nights at Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

The property has a beautiful view out to the bay. It is very quiet and private.

M

Max

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sleep By The Sea

An absolutely beautiful spot! We loved the privacy of the site, ocean view, and everything is well set up for a relaxing stay. Jeffery did a great job creating this site.