The best private sites camping 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.

99% (114)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Lobster Boat Inn

2. The Lobster Boat Inn

100%
(11)
3 sites · RVs, Lodging · Glen Road, NS
The Lobster Boat Inn is located on a hill in the woods in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. It sits high and dry with no water in sight! You get the entire property to yourself. No barking dogs, loud music or annoying neighbours. No crowded RV or tent city here. Contact your host to adjust min. nights required. (standard 2 - 1 possible for a specific requested date.) Contact host David in advance. We provide visitors with a rustic, unique, "glamping" experience. The Boat is filled with lobster-themed items that will send you on an imaginary lobster pot-pulling adventure. Cook on the back deck as you drink in nature, then eat in an original ship's wheelhouse or outside at the picnic table by the fire pit. Our amenities also include: fishing rods, comfy beds, fresh drinking-water, refrigerator, 2 bathroom facilities, a hot outdoor shower, walking trails, microwave, and AC. The boat can sleep 5 guests, but a private raised glamping tent is provided for overflow if required. Off property you will find: auto race watching (at Riverside raceway), hiking, biking, ocean fishing, and shopping activities. Downtown Antigonish is but a ten minute drive. The famous Highland Games comes in July along with the Lobster Festival in New Glasgow. The Eastern Nova Scotia Exhibition runs from Aug 27-31. Want to swim at St. FX University swimming pool? Day passes are sold at the university. Of course ocean swimming at one of the 19, nearby, beautiful area beaches is totally free for all, so get wet and splash in the sea! Sure, you can sit inside and watch one of our many DVD movies, but instead why not : explore nature, take a walk through the woods, talk to your wife, or friend, play with the kids, or throw a ball for your dog? If you want to relax, visit the golf course in town or just chill on the comfy deck. Do you want to ride, your bike on mountain trails, fish, visit a lighthouse or a petting farm? We have these close by too! Wide-open highways make for smooth, fast, travel to places like New Glasgow, Pictou, The Cabot Trail or the ferry to PEI. (now 1/2 price) All are within an hour's drive. At night, relax around the fire-pit after a long day of fun. Then have a sleep "extraordinaire” on board! (No waves to worry about with this boat!) NS Registration # STR 25/26 B7063
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$50
 / night
Petpeswick Hills

3. Petpeswick Hills

100%
(14)
2 sites · RVs · East Petpeswick, NS
Explore 100+ acres of forest via hiking trails and logging roads. 4 kms from famous Martinique Beach Provincial Park with 5 km of white sand and surf. Solid safe roads and clean parking areas from where you can enjoy camp fires, star gazing, winter ocean views, and explore the diverse landscape. Free firewood available. Sounds of of nature are everywhere from the lowlands to the highlands. There is also a path to Petpeswick Inlet. Coastal rains fall directly on our plateau and flow down to your campsite while forming small streams, ponds, waterfalls and springs. The amazing upland blanket bog distinguishes this property from many others and is a naturalist's wonderland. Connected to 300 acres of protected wilderness area and the Musquodoboit Harbour Bird and Game Sanctuary. Almost every species of wildlife and plant can be found in this pristine Acadian boreal forest. Highest elevations within 8 km of beach. There's also plenty to explore in nearby Musquodoboit Harbour including spectacular, well maintained hiking and biking trails, farmer's market, public library, cafes and more. If you're looking to connect with nature, while being close to surf and civilization, you've reached the right destination on the Eastern Shore. For maximum peace and tranquility consider booking both sites and have the entire property to yourself.
Campfires
from 
CA$25
 / night
4 Oaks Park

6. 4 Oaks Park

94%
(16)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · 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 Outhouse available. Bring all trash out that you bring in
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$35
 / night
Sally's Brook Wilderness Cabins

9. Sally's Brook Wilderness Cabins

92%
(13)
8 sites · Lodging · Baddeck, NS
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
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$139
 / night
Fainne Crann Camping

10. Fainne Crann Camping

88%
(4)
5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Baddeck, NS
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.” Enjoy a complementary glass of our own farm-pressed apple cider upon arrival! 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. Follow us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/fainne_crann?igsh=czg1NDB4NjVjZmxm
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$40
 / 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.

99% (114)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Lobster Boat Inn

2. The Lobster Boat Inn

100%
(11)
3 sites · RVs, Lodging · Glen Road, NS
The Lobster Boat Inn is located on a hill in the woods in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. It sits high and dry with no water in sight! You get the entire property to yourself. No barking dogs, loud music or annoying neighbours. No crowded RV or tent city here. Contact your host to adjust min. nights required. (standard 2 - 1 possible for a specific requested date.) Contact host David in advance. We provide visitors with a rustic, unique, "glamping" experience. The Boat is filled with lobster-themed items that will send you on an imaginary lobster pot-pulling adventure. Cook on the back deck as you drink in nature, then eat in an original ship's wheelhouse or outside at the picnic table by the fire pit. Our amenities also include: fishing rods, comfy beds, fresh drinking-water, refrigerator, 2 bathroom facilities, a hot outdoor shower, walking trails, microwave, and AC. The boat can sleep 5 guests, but a private raised glamping tent is provided for overflow if required. Off property you will find: auto race watching (at Riverside raceway), hiking, biking, ocean fishing, and shopping activities. Downtown Antigonish is but a ten minute drive. The famous Highland Games comes in July along with the Lobster Festival in New Glasgow. The Eastern Nova Scotia Exhibition runs from Aug 27-31. Want to swim at St. FX University swimming pool? Day passes are sold at the university. Of course ocean swimming at one of the 19, nearby, beautiful area beaches is totally free for all, so get wet and splash in the sea! Sure, you can sit inside and watch one of our many DVD movies, but instead why not : explore nature, take a walk through the woods, talk to your wife, or friend, play with the kids, or throw a ball for your dog? If you want to relax, visit the golf course in town or just chill on the comfy deck. Do you want to ride, your bike on mountain trails, fish, visit a lighthouse or a petting farm? We have these close by too! Wide-open highways make for smooth, fast, travel to places like New Glasgow, Pictou, The Cabot Trail or the ferry to PEI. (now 1/2 price) All are within an hour's drive. At night, relax around the fire-pit after a long day of fun. Then have a sleep "extraordinaire” on board! (No waves to worry about with this boat!) NS Registration # STR 25/26 B7063
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$50
 / night
Petpeswick Hills

3. Petpeswick Hills

100%
(14)
2 sites · RVs · East Petpeswick, NS
Explore 100+ acres of forest via hiking trails and logging roads. 4 kms from famous Martinique Beach Provincial Park with 5 km of white sand and surf. Solid safe roads and clean parking areas from where you can enjoy camp fires, star gazing, winter ocean views, and explore the diverse landscape. Free firewood available. Sounds of of nature are everywhere from the lowlands to the highlands. There is also a path to Petpeswick Inlet. Coastal rains fall directly on our plateau and flow down to your campsite while forming small streams, ponds, waterfalls and springs. The amazing upland blanket bog distinguishes this property from many others and is a naturalist's wonderland. Connected to 300 acres of protected wilderness area and the Musquodoboit Harbour Bird and Game Sanctuary. Almost every species of wildlife and plant can be found in this pristine Acadian boreal forest. Highest elevations within 8 km of beach. There's also plenty to explore in nearby Musquodoboit Harbour including spectacular, well maintained hiking and biking trails, farmer's market, public library, cafes and more. If you're looking to connect with nature, while being close to surf and civilization, you've reached the right destination on the Eastern Shore. For maximum peace and tranquility consider booking both sites and have the entire property to yourself.
Campfires
from 
CA$25
 / night
4 Oaks Park

6. 4 Oaks Park

94%
(16)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · 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 Outhouse available. Bring all trash out that you bring in
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$35
 / night
Sally's Brook Wilderness Cabins

9. Sally's Brook Wilderness Cabins

92%
(13)
8 sites · Lodging · Baddeck, NS
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
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$139
 / night
Fainne Crann Camping

10. Fainne Crann Camping

88%
(4)
5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Baddeck, NS
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.” Enjoy a complementary glass of our own farm-pressed apple cider upon arrival! 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. Follow us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/fainne_crann?igsh=czg1NDB4NjVjZmxm
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
CA$40
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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