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The best camping in Nova Scotia

Name: Nova Scotia
Address: Nova Scotia
Rating: 4.602

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.

92% (1.3K) • 892 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Nova Scotia

Big Belle Farm

1. Big Belle Farm

97%

(233)

Mabou, NS · 372 sites · Tents, RVs

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

Glory Ridge Campground

2. Glory Ridge Campground

96%

(27)

Arisaig, NS · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

A small boutique campground with a small cluster of 3 way RV sites cleverly situated on the top of a ridge that overlooks the Northumberland Strait. Glorious sunsets are an almost guaranteed nightly attraction. The quiet serenity of Glory Ridge is a remarkable delight. Amenities include a bespoken glamorous glamping tent cabin, a curious cob pizza oven, an amazing outside shower made out of recycled political signs and a tenting campground cluster nestled among the trees in the hollow of an old orchard. Glory Ridge Campground is uniquely situated to create a unique friendly and warm experience.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

3. Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

100%

(207)

Advocate Harbour, NS · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

FireLoch - rest, connect and learn!

4. FireLoch - rest, connect and learn!

100%

(1)

North Lochaber, NS · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Our family lives onsite at FireLoch, a serene retreat space and social enterprise in Northern Nova Scotia. Each summer, our space quiets down because we're so busy all winter and need time to rest! This year, we decided to invite others to join us during this season of rest and summer fun. We welcome Hipcampers to join us by camping on the land, staying overnight in our renovated barn apartment, or bringing an RV to stay! We are located just steps from gorgeous Lochaber Lake, one of the longest and deepest lakes in Nova Scotia. It's a great spot for paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, and fishing. We're also just 15 minutes from Antigonish, so you'll have easy access to amenities while feeling miles away from civilization in our mossy forests!

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Medway Community Forest Campground

5. Medway Community Forest Campground

100%

(5)

Digby, NS · 5 sites

Book your stay at one of 5 beautiful hike in camp sites in the Medway Community Forest License Area near Lower Stave Lake and Stake lake. This is a Backcountry Self Service Campground. Gear must be hiked in. Food must be properly stored (in vehicle or in one of our pre-installed bear hangs). Garbage must be packed out. There is no potable water onsite – please supply your own drinking and cooking water. At Stave Lake Campground, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful nature of interior southwest Nova Scotia. With only 5 sites, the campground offers a peaceful, back-country style camping experience dispersed amongst old growth hemlock, spruce, and maple with access to associated hiking trails around Stave Lake. With a canoe or kayak, the campground provides a great starting place for exploring the adjacent Tobeatic and Medway Lakes Wilderness Areas. The campground is also a 10-minute drive from Kejimkujik National Park with dozens of maintained hiking trails, old-growth forest, and canoe and kayak rentals, and only 5 minutes from the 4-mile stillwater trail, a beautiful waterfront trail managed by the MCFC. The Stave Lake Campground is operated by the Medway Community Forest Cooperative. Our mission is to support local communities through sustainable and ecologically based forest management. One way we strive to meet our mission is to manage the forest to maximize multiple economic, social, and environmental values - The Medway Community Forest Campground allows us to diversify revenue sources while protecting provincially recognized old-growth forest that surrounds a portion of Stave Lake! The campground is a backcountry style camping experience with front country access. The farthest sites are about 500 meters from the parking lot. Gear must be carried in! The campground has outhouses, firewood available for pre-purchase, and bear hangs for storing food. Each campsite has a firepit, picnic table, and tent pad. There is a lovely trail system associated with the campground. We recommend waterproof hiking boots as water pools in some spots! Only firewood purchased at the campground is allowed in accordance with the Provincial “Don’t Move Firewood” campaign. Campfires are permitted in accordance with provincial regulations. Campers must be aware of and follow the burning restrictions updated daily at https://novascotia.ca/burnsafe/.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Blueberry Run Trail RV Sites

6. Blueberry Run Trail RV Sites

99%

(78)

Grand Desert, NS · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Escape to a quiet, private RV site on our 11-acre property, located at the end of a peaceful dead‑end road in a small residential community. Enjoy direct access to a newly groomed multi‑use trail just 20 feet from your site—perfect for walking, running, biking, ATVing, or simply exploring the outdoors. Important Note Only one RV is permitted on the site. No additional RVs, trailers, or tents allowed. Site Features RV Pad & Utilities - Large RV pad: 65 ft long × 20 ft wide — easily accommodates slides. - 20 AMP electrical: Suitable for smaller RVs. Larger RVs needing 50 AMP may require generator support. - Fast on‑site WiFi for remote work, streaming, or staying connected. - Gray water hookup so you can enjoy worry‑free drainage during your stay. - Portable black water tank rental available (add during booking for a small fee). Outdoor Comfort - Private wood deck with covered gazebo, privacy walls, and bug netting — a perfect spot to relax day or night. - Fire pit provided (firewood available on-site for cash/e-transfer). Please check burn restrictions updated daily at 2pm: https://novascotia.ca/burnsafe/ - Propane fire pit + propane tank rental available, and allowed during fire bans. Location Highlights - 20–40 minutes to Dartmouth or Halifax via Hwy 107 or 207 — easy access to city amenities while enjoying a peaceful retreat. - 5–15 minutes to many beautiful ocean beaches, including popular surfing spots. -10 minutes to Porters Lake shopping district with: Fuel • Grocery • Liquor store • Pharmacy • Vet clinic • Restaurants • Hardware • Bank • Pizza • Cheesecake shop & more. - 7 km (4.6 miles) of freshly groomed multi‑use trail right at your doorstep for walking, running, biking, and ATVs. Check-In & Guest Info - Self check‑in: 2:00 PM - Check‑out: 11:00 AM If the site becomes available earlier, we will notify you. We’re committed to making your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. If you need anything during your visit, just reach out!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Breezy Petals Camping Resort

7. Breezy Petals Camping Resort

94%

(49)

Rines Creek, NS · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging

Breezy Petals Camping Resort is a family oriented campground offering tenting, RVing, glamping as well as fun outdoor activities and music events.Our mission is to build a camping wonderland, where families and friends can discover true happiness, health and  green lifestyle. Here you can forget all of your stress, just enjoy the great nature by listening birds singing, watching beaver swimming, discovering the secret from deep woods, observing starlight with telescope at night, relaxing your body with yoga by the dome..... So much more you could do.Come and join us, let's have some fun together!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Black Rock Stables

8. Black Rock Stables

97%

(98)

Black Rock, NS · 2 sites

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.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Sleep By The Sea

9. Sleep By The Sea

100%

(20)

Tangier, NS · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

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. Also a launch area is available on the property for kayaks and paddle boards so visitors can explore the several Islands and beaches that the area has to offer. Sheet Harbour is approximately a 25 minute drive away and there you will find gas, groceries etc...

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

BeaverRiverBeach - Coastal Camping

10. BeaverRiverBeach - Coastal Camping

100%

(8)

Beaver River, NS · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to Beaver River Beach - Coastal camping, a unique coastal campground offering scenic stays for tent campers, RVs, vans, overlanders, and guests looking for a cozy cabin escape. Our sites are spread throughout the property, with some overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and others tucked beside a peaceful pond and stream that flows to the sea. Whether you're waking up to the sound of crashing waves or relaxing beside calm waters, you'll find the perfect place to slow down and reconnect with nature. Choose from drive-in campsites or our signature beachfront A-frame cabin, all surrounded by fresh ocean air, spectacular sunsets, and easy access to the shoreline. While the campground is located on private property, the beach access road passes through the grounds and provides public access to the beach. This creates a friendly, laid-back coastal atmosphere where you may see locals and visitors coming and going during the day, while evenings and overnight remain quiet and peaceful. Beaver River Beach Coastal Camping is perfect for travelers who appreciate simple, self-sufficient camping and the beauty of Nova Scotia's rugged coastline. Come unwind, explore, and experience coastal camping at its best.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Urban Forest Getaway

11. Urban Forest Getaway

100%

(17)

Halifax, NS · 1 site

Only twenty minutes from Halifax and half way to Peggy’s Cove, this campground is the perfect spot for a quiet, family friendly experience. Convenient parking on the road next to the entrance and then it’s only a minutes walk to the forest clearing. Plenty of room to pitch up to three large or small tents, plus a covered picnic table. Also features a composting outhouse! Available camp fire and wood when fires are permitted. A gas BBQ is available for a small extra fee of $6.00 or a tabletop grill is supplied, just bring your own green propane bottles :)

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

The Cove at Hirtle Lake

12. The Cove at Hirtle Lake

100%

(4)

Liverpool, NS · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Private, secluded campsites surrounded by towering pines, kilometers of trails, and a stunning lake. On the property, you’ll find a cozy off-grid cabin that sleeps five, multiple campsites for tents or RVs, kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, a swimming dock, firepits, picnic tables, and even a wood-burning sauna!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Smokey View

13. Smokey View

100%

(49)

Sydney, NS · 1 site

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.

Pets

Murphy's Camping on the Ocean

14. Murphy's Camping on the Ocean

99%

(84)

Tangier, NS · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Wild Islands Camping by the Sea

15. Wild Islands Camping by the Sea

100%

(31)

Moser River, NS · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Live Life In Tents Campground

16. Live Life In Tents Campground

99%

(69)

Baddeck, NS · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

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

Fundy Spray Campground

17. Fundy Spray Campground

100%

(2)

Smiths Cove, NS · 17 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Fundy Spray Campground — a relaxed, spacious place to camp just minutes from Digby and the Bay of Fundy. We offer large, open sites for both RV and tent campers, making it easy to settle in, stretch out, and enjoy a quieter pace of travel. Whether you’re passing through for a night or staying a little longer to explore the coast, this is a simple, comfortable basecamp without the crowds. Our location is ideal for road trippers and ferry travelers, with quick access to Digby, whale watching tours, and the Digby–Saint John ferry. You’ll also be close to the dramatic tides and coastal views that make the Bay of Fundy one of the most unique landscapes in the world. We focus on what matters most: clean facilities, easy access, fair pricing, and plenty of space to relax. Good fit for: • RV travelers looking for an easy overnight stop • Tent campers who want quiet, wooded space • Families who prefer simple, no-frills camping • Anyone exploring the Digby / Bay of Fundy area If you’re looking for a straightforward, affordable place to camp near the water — with room to breathe — you’ll feel right at home here.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Mumana Vineyards

18. Mumana Vineyards

100%

(2)

Upper Falmouth, NS · 9 sites

We are a working 25-acre vineyard. We have a cleared area between our house and barn that is perfect for camping. It overlooks the vineyard while still offering some privacy from the house, thanks to surrounding gardens. Guests have access to a full bathroom with a shower and a washer/dryer through a separate entrance at the back of the house. Guests are also welcome to use our outdoor paved deck area with a fire pit, while respecting any burn restrictions. It is possible to arrange vineyard tours and even participate in some vineyard work if you would like to better understand how we operate.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Bollong’s Point, Popes Harbour

19. Bollong’s Point, Popes Harbour

Tangier, NS · 1 site

The property is a 7-acre peninsula in Pope's Harbour, located in the heart of the 100 Wild Islands Protected Area along Nova Scotia's eastern shore. It is a kayaker's paradise. Dozens of islands, many with beaches and campsites, can be reached with very little effort from the property. The property features private oceanfront campsites, a boat launch, a small hiking trail around the perimeter, secure multi-day parking for guests who wish to camp on the islands, and free local advice on where to find the hidden gems throughout the archipelago. Just 15 minutes away, Taylor Head Provincial Park offers two beautiful beaches and excellent hiking trails. The nearby town of Sheet Harbour is also worth a visit, with a great pub, a microbrewery, and other local amenities.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Back Forty

20. Back Forty

100%

(8)

Baddeck, NS · 26 sites

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

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Eva

2 days ago

19 ft campervan

With pets

3 nights at Sleep By The Sea

We absolutely loved Sleep by the sea! Jeffrey and Tracey were fantastic hosts and took time out to be very helpful and welcoming. The views and amenities they have are fantastic. The flush toilet bathroom and the outdoor kitchen make a huge difference when camping. We will be back. Highly recommend:)

Leah

4 days ago

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

Incredibly sweet and secluded! The campsite was clean, spacious, and the amenities (outhouse, table, firewood) were great. If you’re looking to cozy up in the trees with 100% privacy, this is the spot.

Teresa

5 days ago

Weekend Trip to FireLoch - rest, connect and learn!

Jennifer was extremely welcoming and we were able to settle right in. We weren’t able to fully appreciate everything available to us due to commitments in Antigonish. We look forward to returning when we can just enjoy the beautiful space they have created.

Tanya

5 days ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

Beautiful location! Peaceful, spacious and the perfect view! My second time there and I will definitely be back.

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

Tara

5 days ago

15 ft rooftop tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Live Life In Tents Campground

Spacious open field with great amenities! To have a heated shower and clean bathroom facilities felt luxurious. Anita was great at communicating! I had a quick stay but the location was beautiful and it would be so fun to return with a group.

Mary

5 days ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sleep By The Sea

Beautiful views and has everything you need. Lots of space for big groups. Jeff and his family are incredible hosts. This site is the perfect place to make lasting memories.

Kyle

6 days ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Medway Community Forest Campground

Nice campsite. The outhouse is nice and big and very clean. We will likely be back.

Lily

6 days ago

Tent

2 nights at Medway Community Forest Campground

Really nice and well-maintained sites. We appreciated the inclusion of fire-dousing water buckets. A good balance of privacy and accessibility. The lake was beautiful in the early morning :)

Kate

6 days ago

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Live Life In Tents Campground

Great spot! We had a wonderful stay! Loved the shower house!

Jennifer

1 week ago

Tent

3 nights at Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

Highly recommend! The amazing view can’t be beat. Extremely private with the cutest little outhouse I’ve ever seen. The site was clean and well maintained, and fully stocked with enough firewood to last our stay. Can’t wait to return in the fall!

Chris

1 week ago

Tent

3 nights at Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

Second time there - every bit as nice the second time

Skylar

1 week ago

Tent

1 night at Back Forty

It was an amazing stay, the place was stunning and we loved it a lot!

James

1 week ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Medway Community Forest Campground

Excellent spot to camp and a great organization to support :)

Rylie

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Medway Community Forest Campground

We will 100% be returning! The walking trail around the lake is beautiful. We were surprised to be surrounded by such a large amount of old growth. The second lake is one of our new favourite spots to take our paddle boards out on. It is crystal clear and seemingly untouched, great for swimming and exploring the many islands. This campground itself is entirely self-serve, and other than the accessible site, each site requires a short walk in. There is a wagon on the grounds for guests to borrow to carry belongings and wood to their site. Packing light was beneficial in our case as we only made one trip from the site to the car. It’s not a long walk, but long enough that you won’t want to walk it more than you need to. Though the trails are visible and marked, because they are so new, a few additional markings may help to build a more solid path in the future. We ended up off the path a few times before finding a marker. The staff member we did meet was lovely, very knowledgeable and helpful. We wish the best for the future of this campground and hope to return again soon! Can’t wait to see their progress and development!

Erin

1 week ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Back Forty

Our favourite place to camp! Quiet, clean and surrounded by nature 🙂

Kalli

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Back Forty

Had another great stay here! Beautiful property and friendly host!

Brooke

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

Amazing site, views are unreal, the drive there was beautiful, little store down the road has everything you need! Will 100% be back and highly recommend!!

Alexandra

1 week ago

13 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Fraserville Off-Grid Camping

La vue est extraordinaire. Le site (#1) est grand et très bien entretenu. Belle communication avec le propriétaire. Je recommande à 100%.

Alyce

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sleep By The Sea

Beautiful location and wonderful hosts! Such a kind and accommodating family! Will be recommending to everyone!

A stunning real life sunset, resembling a Bob Ross still life painting, looking out toward Mink and Indian Islands.

If you look closely you can see a heron on fishing on the point.

Samantha

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wild Islands Camping by the Sea

The site was beautiful & felt secluded even though you were close to the road. The views were breathtaking & we can’t wait to visit again!

Top camping destinations around Nova Scotia

Sable Island National Park

30 campgrounds

Cape Breton Highlands National Park

71 campgrounds

Kejimkujik National Park

Dollar Lake Provincial Park

137 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to camp in Nova Scotia?

Camping costs in Nova Scotia can vary depending on the type of campsite and amenities offered. On average, you can expect to pay between CAD $20 to $45 per night for a basic tent or RV site in a provincial park. Prices may be higher for private campgrounds with additional amenities such as showers, electricity, and Wi-Fi. Keep in mind that prices can also fluctuate based on the season and availability. For more information on camping options in Nova Scotia, visit Nova Scotia's official tourism website.

Is there free camping in Nova Scotia?

Yes, there is free camping in Nova Scotia. You can find free, dispersed camping in Crown lands, which are public lands managed by the provincial government. These sites are typically primitive, without facilities or amenities, and campers must follow Leave No Trace principles. Note that some Crown land areas may have restrictions or require permits, so it's essential to check with the Nova Scotia Department of Lands and Forestry for the most up-to-date information on specific locations.

What are the rules for camping in Nova Scotia?

In Nova Scotia, camping rules and regulations may vary depending on whether you are camping in a provincial park, national park, or on private land. Here are some general guidelines to follow when camping in Nova Scotia:

Reservations: Reserve your campsite in advance, especially during peak season. Most provincial and national parks have online reservation systems.
Check-in and check-out: Typically, check-in time is after 1 pm, and check-out time is before 11am. Confirm these times with the campground you are staying at.
Quiet hours: Respect quiet hours, usually between 10 pm and 7 am, to ensure a peaceful experience for all campers.
Fire regulations: Follow fire regulations and restrictions, which may change depending on the time of year and weather conditions. Use designated fire pits or fire pans, and never leave a fire unattended.
Wildlife safety: Store food and scented items properly to avoid attracting wildlife. Do not feed or approach wildlife.
Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash, minimizing campsite impact, and respecting the natural environment.
Pets: If you are camping with pets, keep them on a leash and clean up after them. Some campgrounds may have specific pet-friendly areas or restrictions.
Alcohol: Alcohol consumption is typically restricted to your campsite. Drinking in public areas or causing disturbances may result in fines or eviction from the campground.

Always check the specific rules and regulations of the campground or park you are visiting, as additional rules may apply depending on the location.

Can you wild camp in Nova Scotia?

Yes, wild camping (also known as dispersed or backcountry camping) is allowed in certain areas of Nova Scotia. The province is home to numerous provincial parks, wilderness areas, and Crown lands where you can camp for free or with a permit, depending on the location. However, it is essential to follow Leave No Trace principles and camp in designated areas or away from developed sites, trails, and water sources.

Some popular wild camping locations in Nova Scotia include Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and various provincial parks and wilderness areas. Always check with the park or land management agency for specific regulations and guidelines before setting up camp.