The best river, stream, or creek camping 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) 29 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Cape Breton Island

Live Life In Tents Campground

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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$35
 / night
Big Belle Farm

2. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$25
 / night
Sally's Brook Wilderness Cabins

3. 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
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$139
 / night
Rivers Edge

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.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
CA$30
 / night
Aspy Acres

5. 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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
CA$25
 / night
Back Forty

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.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
CA$30
 / night
Waters Edge

7. 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.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
CA$30
 / night
Island Point Resort

8. 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.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
CA$50
 / night
Bunkies on Bras d'Or

9. 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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$144
 / night
Dome Yurt By The Ocean

10. 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.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
CA$80
 / night
Dragonfly Cottage

11. 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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$220
 / night

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) 29 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Cape Breton Island

Live Life In Tents Campground

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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$35
 / night
Big Belle Farm

2. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
CA$25
 / night
Sally's Brook Wilderness Cabins

3. 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
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$139
 / night
Rivers Edge

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.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
CA$30
 / night
Aspy Acres

5. 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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
CA$25
 / night
Back Forty

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.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
CA$30
 / night
Waters Edge

7. 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.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
CA$30
 / night
Island Point Resort

8. 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.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
CA$50
 / night
Bunkies on Bras d'Or

9. 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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$144
 / night
Dome Yurt By The Ocean

10. 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.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
CA$80
 / night
Dragonfly Cottage

11. 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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$220
 / night

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