The best river, stream, or creek glamping in Cape Breton Island

The island of Cape Breton, off the coast of Nova Scotia, is renowned for its music, natural beauty, and long Indigenous, Celtic, and Acadian history. Many visitors head to the island to drive the Cabot Trail, a loop of less than 300 kilometres, but campers should do themselves a favour and take a few days to do the route. It’s best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, with plenty of fascinating spots to explore and photo opps that will tempt you to stop.

97% (63)

Top-rated campgrounds

The island of Cape Breton, off the coast of Nova Scotia, is renowned for its music, natural beauty, and long Indigenous, Celtic, and Acadian history. Many visitors head to the island to drive the Cabot Trail, a loop of less than 300 kilometres, but campers should do themselves a favour and take a few days to do the route. It’s best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, with plenty of fascinating spots to explore and photo opps that will tempt you to stop.

97% (63)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. 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.

2. 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

3. Dome Yurt By The Ocean

2 sites · Lodging · Baddeck, NS

Glamping at its best: Tthe magical cozy River Inhabitants Basin and the breathtaking panoramic view from this elevated dome yurt facing the deep blue glittering ocean is the #1 getaway for affordable, relaxing, peaceful holidays, kayaking, hiking, biking, swimming, reading, writing, loving Rent our dome yurt in high season 2023 for 99 CAD per night with 2 (max 4 if you bring your own sleeping gear), plus final cleaning $80.00 plus 15% tax. As the river mouth and basin with lots of uninhabited islands offers a lot of things to do we suggest you to combine water sports adventure with your stay. An ocean kayak will be provided if you stay for a week or longer. We offer sailing tours, kayaking and fishing. Although we understand the desire to see as many places as possible when on vacation, we highly recommend people to stay with us for several days. Let your mind come to rest and get a good sleep on real good spring mattresses. ! We would love to be the place where you come to rest. Deep dive into nature and forget the day to day hustle for a while! Writers, painters, artists (like your host) find the inspiration and recharging for new productivity. Internal curtains at the huge windows enhance the impression that this has traditional-style solid HydroTex walls yet can be rolled up for views out and to the Milky Way. The front door has a mesh panel behind and low vents aid air flow.

4. Bunkies on Bras d'Or

1 site · Lodging · River Denys, NS

Rustic Glamping Retreat – Private Beach, Forest Escape & Sauna Access Experience effortless glamping in nature’s embrace. Nestled in a serene forest setting, this cozy retreat features two charming loft bunkies—each with a queen-size mattress in the upper loft—plus a small leather futon on the main level. A modular fold-out dining table and chairs offer flexible indoor dining or workspace options. Bunkie lofts are high up with access by sturdy wooden ladder (if you have mobility issues, it is not suitable). There are small leather futons and extra bedding on the main floor of the bunkie as a sleeping option. NOTE - VERY IMPORTANT Bunkies are located on top a hill at an elevation. PARKING is located on the beach front landing below down a gravel road with max parking for 2 cars. Off-grid comfort with eco-conscious touches: • Refresh in the outdoor shower (with hot and cold water) • Use the eco-friendly incinerating toilet and composting toilet and handwashing stations • Stay cozy with clean linens, blankets, and towels provided (including dog towels upon request) • Light your space with LED lanterns and flashlights, and recharge with a solar panel + 12V power pack • Rain barrel with water for washing dishes Camp cooking made easy: Cabana with prep area and storage! Enjoy access to a BBQ grill, Propane stoves, cooking utensils, dishes, coolers, and complimentary coffee, tea, cooking oils, basic spices. Adventure-ready amenities: You’ll have full access to the private property and secluded beach, on beautiful Bras d’Dor saltwater lake, complete with: • Kayaks • Paddle boat • 4 adult life jackets Water shoes are recommended for your shoreline adventures. Unplug and unwind: While there is no Wi-Fi at the bunkies, you’ll have solid mobile data coverage—and Wi-Fi access is available just 600 feet away at the owner’s main property. Data is available but can be spotty. Additional features: • Wood-fired sauna access (located at the owner’s property) • Seasonal firepit (please respect provincial fire bans—penalties apply) • Pet-friendly—your furry companions are welcome! • Parking at beachfront down the hill from the bunkies—luggage assistance available via RTV Let nature’s soundtrack soothe you—from the gentle flow of a nearby waterfall to the call

5. Dragonfly Cottage

100%

(3)

3 sites · Lodging · Rock Elm, NS

Get away from it all, a very quiet cabin in the woods. A great place to decompress and enjoy some time away. The property is left natural and has an apple tree and berries can be found around the area. Excellent high speed internet now available. There is an area to hook up a camper that provides water, power and sewer. Registration # STR2526B0709

6. The White Pine Cottage

1 site · Lodging · Englishtown, NS

Cozy escape along Nova Scotia’s world-famous Cabot Trail. Nestled on over 1 acre, this charming cottage is just minutes from beaches, hiking trails, and Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Features include open living space, full kitchen, private deck, and a peaceful brook at the edge of the property. Centrally located between Baddeck and Ingonish, close to shops and services. Ideal for a relaxing getaway or nature-filled adventure. Experience the charm of the Cabot Trail! The space A Cozy Get-Away on the Cabot Trail Welcome to your peaceful escape along Nova Scotia’s world-famous Cabot Trail! Nestled on over 1 acre of private land, this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom cottage is perfect for year-round getaways, remote work stays, or adventure-filled vacations. Whether you're unwinding after a day of hiking in the summer or enjoying skiing adventures in the winter, this home is designed for comfort and connection with nature. Inside, you’ll find an open-concept living space warmed by a propane furnace and electric baseboards, a fully equipped kitchen, and a cozy back porch with laundry facilities and access to a private deck—perfect for your morning coffee or evening stargazing. Outdoors, explore your own cleared yard with plenty of space for bonfires, games, or garden picnics, and listen to the tranquil sounds of the brook running along the edge of the property. Located just minutes from local beaches, hiking trails, and everything Cape Breton is known for, you’re a short drive from both Baddeck and Ingonish—with easy access to groceries, restaurants, and essentials. Not to mention, you’re within reach of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Ski Cape Smokey, and some of the most scenic drives in Canada. Whether you're looking for a romantic retreat, a family-friendly base, or a peaceful solo escape—this spot has it all. Book now and experience the magic of the Cabot Trail—your coastal hideaway awaits! Guest access Full access to the entire cottage, including the private deck, yard space. The property sits on over 1 acre, offering plenty of room to relax, explore, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Parking is available on-site for multiple vehicles.

Stories from the community

Evan

July 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sally's Brook Wilderness Cabins

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

L

Liz

July 2025

With pets

2 nights at Sally's Brook Wilderness Cabins

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

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best river, stream, or creek glamping in Cape Breton Island guide

Where to go

Cape Breton Highlands National Park

At 950 square kilometres, Cape Breton Highlands National Park covers most of Northern Cape Breton. Here you’ll find beaches, interpretive programming, and the chance to learn about Indigenous Mi’kmaw culture, plus 26 hiking trails, from gentle strolls to challenging treks through the highlands. Seven frontcountry campgrounds and one backcountry campground are available in the park, while additional private options are set nearby in the surrounding area.

Bras d’Or Lake

This massive estuary was designated a UNESCO Biosphere in 2011, and its mix of sea and freshwater houses many species of plants and animals. Canoeing and kayaking are popular on the inland sea, as is sailing, and several communities ring Bras d’Or, many with campgrounds near or on the water. One of the bigger centres, Baddeck, has a summer resort feel during high season and is a fun place to pitch a tent or paddle out to Kidston Island and its lighthouse.

Sydney

If you fly in from Halifax or further afield, this is where you land. The largest community on Camp Breton, Sydney went through a time of economic downturn around the turn of the century before the ingenuity of Cape Bretoners and their love for their home resulted in the creation of charming small community areas and a flourishing tourism industry. About a half hour’s drive from Sydney is Louisbourg, where it’s possible to set up camp at an area campground and set aside a day to visit the sprawling 18th-century Fortress of Louisbourg Historic Site. If a day isn’t enough, you can even camp right at the fort.

Cheticamp

Acadian culture is an important part of Cape Breton. In Cheticamp, you will see houses adorned with Acadian stars, hear the accent in the French language peppered in conversation, and taste it in the local food. Museums and boutiques showcase traditional crafts, while pubs often feature fiddle music. This region, on the west side of the island, is a great base from which to set out on cycling, whale watching, sea kayaking, or salmon fishing adventures.