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

On Cape Breton Island, river camping means cool mornings, the sound of rushing water, and quick access for a swim or paddle. With over 110 riverfront options, you can find everything from thick forest sites to open clearings, often just a few steps from the water’s edge. Most spots offer toilets, showers, and welcome your pets. The average price runs around $35 a night, with some sites dipping as low as $25. Top picks include Big Belle Farm (59 reviews), Unique Cabot Trail Campground (26 reviews), and Aspy Acres (11 reviews). Wildlife-watching is solid here, and you’ll spot plenty of eagles and the occasional moose. Swimming and surfing are both on the menu if you want to mix things up. Bring layers—river air gets chilly when the sun drops.

97% (173)

Top-rated campgrounds near Cape Breton Island

On Cape Breton Island, river camping means cool mornings, the sound of rushing water, and quick access for a swim or paddle. With over 110 riverfront options, you can find everything from thick forest sites to open clearings, often just a few steps from the water’s edge. Most spots offer toilets, showers, and welcome your pets. The average price runs around $35 a night, with some sites dipping as low as $25. Top picks include Big Belle Farm (59 reviews), Unique Cabot Trail Campground (26 reviews), and Aspy Acres (11 reviews). Wildlife-watching is solid here, and you’ll spot plenty of eagles and the occasional moose. Swimming and surfing are both on the menu if you want to mix things up. Bring layers—river air gets chilly when the sun drops.

97% (173)

Top-rated campgrounds near Cape Breton Island

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. Aspy Acres

98%

(21)

5 sites · Tents · Baddeck, NS

Discover serenity at Aspy Acres, a tranquil campsite near Aspy Bay. Unwind by the creek, explore nearby White Point beach, and relish the privacy of secluded sites amidst lush trees and the sound of the babbling Smelt Brook. Ideal basecamp for Northern Cape Breton adventures. Book now for an unforgettable, rejuvenating camping experience.

4. Rivers Edge

1 site · RV · Antigonish, NS

🌊 Riverside Escape near Cleveland, NS (not Antigonish!) Set along the beautiful River Inhabitants, this peaceful site is just 20 minutes from Port Hawkesbury. The tidal river is perfect for kayaking—head upstream through calm waters or paddle all the way out to the Atlantic Ocean. 🚻 An outhouse is available on-site, with running water coming soon. ✨ Just a 5-minute walk away, a scenic tower awaits—ideal for sweeping views by day and unforgettable stargazing at night. Simple, quiet, and close to nature—this riverside retreat is the perfect spot to unwind, explore, and soak in the best of Nova Scotia’s outdoors.

5. 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

6. Back Forty

100%

(2)

28 sites · Tents · Baddeck, NS

Located 15 minutes to Baddeck and 20 minutes from Margaree this Forty acre property has lots to offer. There are several fields and lots of forest to enjoy with several Kilometers of trails to explore. Most sites are walk-in sites with a parking area provided in the first field. The back boarder of property is the Beautiful Middle River with an awesome swimming hole and a path to get ya there. At this time there is no shower or washroom facilities but there is a compostable outhouse and solar showers can be used. Middle River is one of the premier fishing rivers on Cape Breton.

7. Island Point Resort

3 sites · RVs · Southside Boularderie, NS

Island Point Resort is perfectly suited for: Family Vacations, Fishing or Boating. Getaways Retreats Quiet vacation spot to unwind. This peaceful resort tucked in on the shore of the Little Bras d’Or at Island Point Harbor. We are located 25min from Newfoundland ferry terminal. We are mainly a seasonal RV resort with some rental cabins. We have plenty of parking, boat ramp and small dock. Swimming raft and moorings for boats. Feel free to reach out to Jon at 902-322-1824 via call or text for more information.

8. 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.

9. 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

10. Waters Edge

1 site · RV · Kempt Road, NS

RV site right at the water’s edge and wake up to the sound of gentle waves (see photos). A short walk through the forest leads you to this peaceful site, tucked away in nature. Kayaks and a canoe are available for you to explore the shoreline—life jackets (PFDs) are provided and must be worn. Evenings are best spent by the fire, but don’t forget to check novascotia.ca/burnsafe after 2 pm daily for provincial fire restrictions. Our location makes the perfect base for adventure. Take a day trip along the famous Cabot Trail, discover Isle Madame, explore rugged Meat Cove, or step back in time at the Fortress of Louisbourg. Come for the quiet, stay for the views, and leave with unforgettable memories.

11. 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

Camper favorites in and near Cape Breton Island

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Island Point Resort

3 sites · RVs · Southside Boularderie, NS

Island Point Resort is perfectly suited for: Family Vacations, Fishing or Boating. Getaways Retreats Quiet vacation spot to unwind. This peaceful resort tucked in on the shore of the Little Bras d’Or at Island Point Harbor. We are located 25min from Newfoundland ferry terminal. We are mainly a seasonal RV resort with some rental cabins. We have plenty of parking, boat ramp and small dock. Swimming raft and moorings for boats. Feel free to reach out to Jon at 902-322-1824 via call or text for more information.

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.

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

Waters Edge

1 site · RV · Kempt Road, NS

RV site right at the water’s edge and wake up to the sound of gentle waves (see photos). A short walk through the forest leads you to this peaceful site, tucked away in nature. Kayaks and a canoe are available for you to explore the shoreline—life jackets (PFDs) are provided and must be worn. Evenings are best spent by the fire, but don’t forget to check novascotia.ca/burnsafe after 2 pm daily for provincial fire restrictions. Our location makes the perfect base for adventure. Take a day trip along the famous Cabot Trail, discover Isle Madame, explore rugged Meat Cove, or step back in time at the Fortress of Louisbourg. Come for the quiet, stay for the views, and leave with unforgettable memories.

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

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

This booking is for a campsite ONLY. The tent is not provided.

J

Jake

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Live Life In Tents Campground

Great campsites with bathrooms and a shower. The apples were in season so we ate a few! This campsite is where we begin our bike tour of the Cabot Trail. I would stay here again in a heartbeat.

T

Theodore

September 2025

23 ft campervan

2 nights at Live Life In Tents Campground

Beautiful and convenient location, close to beaches, sites, gas and groceries, and a reasonable drive to Baddeck. Lee was a friendly, informative host. The site is called”unserviced” but the washrooms and showers were terrific, exceeding or on par with any other campground we visited.

This booking is for a campsite ONLY. A tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad are not included.

T

Theodore

September 2025

23 ft campervan

With pets

2 nights at Live Life In Tents Campground

Loved staying here, good clean facilities, laidback vibe, sweet sites to visit nearby and central to both coast and Bras Dor.

T

Tom

September 2025

26 ft campervan

1 night at Live Life In Tents Campground

Nice open area with view of surrounding hills. Lee was very friendly and provided a lot of helpful information about hikes in the area.

K

Kassondra

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Aspy Acres

What a great, private little spot right located at the tip of Cape Breton! If you’re adverse to national and provincial park campground feels, this is the site for you! It was very much our kind of camping, a lovely, quiet, private spot alongside a babbling brook, with the sound of the waves crashing against the shoreline in the distance. 10/10 would recommend.

Garrett

August 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Live Life In Tents Campground

Great views in a wide open field with tons of space. The food truck was closed for an event, but the menu looked bomb. Lee was friendly and helpful with tons of tips for the area.

E

Elke

August 2025

16 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Live Life In Tents Campground

We enjoyed our stay at Life in tents. It was a lovely spot. We had our teardrop trailer there for a couple of nights. The showers and toilet were perfect. Thanks Lee and Kanary!

Night Sky taken highest and lowest speed ultra-wide.

Alex

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Live Life In Tents Campground

One of the best camping sites around Cape Breton, and right close to the Cabot Trail! This was my first time camping out, and Lee's Campsite is really clean and open! I love the openness of the space. At night it's even better since it gets so dark with no visible lights around, that you're able to see the stars and milky way! Toilet being a compostable "humanure" spot is great! First time trying one and I gotta say, I would adopt it. It's great! There are 2 of them. Showers stalls are also spacious enough for a single person! I appreciate Lee for also allowing my to charge my Jackery Power Station at his check-in spot while I was out for the day, since I needed to use it for my CPAP. Bless this man and this campsite, because if I visit Cape Breton again, I'll definitely consider it in the future!

On a hill overlooking the farm buildings.

E

Emily

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Big Belle Farm

I love tenting here! Great environment for blueberry jam and everyone was welcoming!

H

Hartley

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Aspy Acres

It was a great experience at Aspy Acres. The site is clean and is near a beautiful view of northern coast of Cape Breton. Michael was very accommodating as well, and messaged me a few times to make sure I found the location and I was settled in.

G

Gerard

August 2025

Tent

4 nights at Big Belle Farm

Great host. Wide open field but perfect for a campervan base for day trips

C

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Live Life In Tents Campground

We loved everything about this site so much we end up staying three nights instead of one night we planned for. The camping sites were far enough for some privacy yet you see others to feel safe too. It was our first time here and we enjoyed it very much. The site includes washroom, shower room and the best part is everything is within 10-30 mins if you’re re driving. Convenient store is less than 5 mins driving, beach and Cabot trails is within 30 mins driving. To be brief, we loved this place and would definitely come back.

This booking is for a campsite ONLY. A tent, sleeping pad, and sleeping bag are not included.

John

August 2025

20 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Live Life In Tents Campground

I really enjoyed my stay at Lee's Hipcamp site. It was a good home base to explore the Cabot Trail for a couple days, and the open field setting was very peaceful, being far enough away from the main road. I appreciated the hot shower, although only had cold water one time. Did not feel cramped at all, as sites are spread out nicely. Really relaxing spot if you just want to hang out there for half the time.

S

Sabrina

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Live Life In Tents Campground

Great place for tents, On the Cabot trail, near some of the most popular hiking trails. (Sadly we couldn't experience them because all trails we're closed due to the forest fires) I recommend!

Natalie

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Aspy Acres

Camping at Aspy Acres was great. Secluded spot and Michael was very helpful in providing recommendations to nearby beaches because of the closed trails.

S

Stéfan

August 2025

12 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Live Life In Tents Campground

Tout était parfait! Un très grand terrain vraiment propre avec une superbe vue sur les montagnes. On était plusieurs campeurs en même temps, mais chacun avait son espace et son intimité. Il y avait un espace à l'abri pour cuisiner en cas de pluie, des toilettes (composte) et même deux douches chaudes! Lee a été très gentil et accueillant!

R

Randy

August 2025

24 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Live Life In Tents Campground

You will not find a better piece of land to camp, while experiencing the Cabot Trail and the surroundings. Lee has done a wonderful job and clearing and creating a wonderful atmosphere for campers. I found the provisions to be quite luxurious for "campers". It's not often that you will have the option to a hot shower at most campsites and a community pavillion/cooking area. Lee provides both, as well as two outdoor compositing toilets. Had I done more research, I would have spent more time at Lee's, as he also offers water activities, expanding trails to hike and a neighboring food truck within a stones throw. While visiting the food truck, I met a couple who were just completing their cycling trek around the Cabot Trail. Chapeau to them, as there are several challenging climbs on the trail. I will definitely be coming back!

Loyce

August 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Live Life In Tents Campground

I loved this camp so much that I am returning for a multiple-day stay. Beautifully maintained, large and spreadout campsites, as well as washrooms and showers. WiFi available, too! It checks all my boxes!!

R

Rosalie

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Aspy Acres

Close to everything, but a lots of bugs so bring a good repeller! We saw birds and animals it was nice

M

Michael

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Live Life In Tents Campground

Lovely spot with a great view! The facilities are good for an unserviced campsite and the owners were very friendly and gave some great recommendations of places to see. Also a beautiful spot for stargazing at night!