The best camping in Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, AB

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100% (2)

Explore the legacy of innovation at Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site.  

The best camping in Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, AB

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Sally's Brook Wilderness Cabins

92%
(13)
27km from Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site · 8 sites · Lodging
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
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CA$139
 / night

3. Live Life In Tents Campground

99%
(61)
38km from Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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CA$35
 / night

4. Big Belle Farm

97%
(230)
50km from Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site · 595 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.
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CA$25
 / night

6. Great Bras D'Or Waterside Camp

100%
(1)
13km from Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Nicely treed with grassy clearings, this waterfront property has a pebble beach, with stunning views down the Great Bras D'Or Channel. At the beach, there’s swimming and fishing, shell searching, rock-skipping. Walk 100m down the beach to the Ross Ferry Marine Park where you’ll find shaded walking-trails, an outdoor fitness gym, and a jungle-gym with a slide for kids. Anyone who feels bold enough can jump off the wharf! There is also a boat launch that can be used (for a small donation to the Ross Ferry Marine Park. Guests of all campsites will have communal access to a small cabin close to the road in SUMMER TIMES ONLY. The interior of the cabin and the water are shut down in September. The cabin has power and water (AC cord can be run from the exterior outlet, and a hose can be attached to the exterior tap). Guests are free to use the small basic kitchen, bathroom, large deck and small living room, but the cabin is not for sleeping. There is no regular cleaning service, so guests are responsible for keeping the communal spaces clean.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
CA$35
 / night

7. Fainne Crann Camping

88%
(4)
15km from Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Step off the beaten path! Fainne Crann (Celtic Ring of Trees) is a gorgeous, remote 58-acre off-grid destination featuring 25 acres of conserved field and wetland, an apple orchard, and stunning western views—all tucked into the Middle River Wilderness Highlands. Come make this very private and serene property your base camp, surrounded by wild and cultivated beauty. We’re just a 4 km drive up a dirt road from the Cabot Trail, with no nearby neighbors, yet centrally located to explore all the beauty and adventure Cape Breton has to offer—20 minutes from Baddeck and 50 minutes from Inverness. Some locals affectionately call our historic farm “beyond the beyond.” Enjoy a complementary glass of our own farm-pressed apple cider upon arrival! Tent campers can choose their site in mowed areas of the field or apple orchard. Sites are car-accessible. We can currently host up to four groups of campers, with a maximum of 12 campers total at any time. (Coming soon! A glamping option with a 5 m bell tent, queen airbed, and linens.) We provide a hot shower, potable water, outdoor picnic or spindle tables, and an outhouse. Special Feature: Guests also have access to a generous indoor space in the refurbished barn—perfect for inclement weather, shade on a hot day, or evening games. The barn is accessible through the greenhouse and is set up with dining and seating areas plus a selection of games and puzzles. Enjoy a peaceful interlude in the farm’s own Fainne Crann, a Celtic tree circle of massive old maples tied to Cape Breton’s Gaelic history. Or start your morning with a walk along adjacent trails and quiet lanes before heading out to explore the island. If you’re curious about off-grid living, conservation, or agroecology, there’s much to discover here. Nearby (10–15 minutes): Big Spruce Brewery, Dancing Goat Café, Herring Choker Café, Lake O’Law, Margaree River, and access to the Highlands interior and Cape Clear via Hunter Mountain’s Crowdis Mountain Road. Pets are welcome on leash. Follow us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/fainne_crann?igsh=czg1NDB4NjVjZmxm
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$40
 / night

10. Cabot Cottage and Seaside Cabins

20km from Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site · 3 sites · Lodging
Enjoy the beauty of both the forest and the ocean on this 4 acre property off the Cabot Trail, where 3 wilderness cabins and a large 2-level home are nestled among the forest which leads down to the waterfront. The space is perfect for those who love nature and rustic vibes. All of the cabins sleep two people, with a personal fire pit, bbq, kitchenette, drinking water (although no running water), and all the amenities needed to spend a few nights in nature. The shared outdoor bathroom has been hand crafted with lots of natural light, a composting toilet (i.e. non-flushing), hot water shower and two sinks. ------- Shared spaces include the trails, washroom, deck overlooking the bay, adirondack chairs at the lookoff, kayaks, hammocks, wood shed, and checkerboard table. There will be up to 12 people on the property - 6 in the cabins, 4 in the main level of the home, and our on-site property managers stay in the walkout basement of the home. ------- The whole property is essentially on a hill. Parking is near the top, followed by the cabins, the shared bathrooms, the 2-story home, and then the waterfront is a few minutes further down. The paths are not suitable for people with mobility issues and potentially seniors. --------------------------------- Registration Number: STR2526T9953
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CA$103
 / night

12. Bunkies on Bras d'Or

32km from Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site · 1 site · Lodging
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
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Toilets
Showers
from 
CA$144
 / night

13. Hawthorn Eco Retreat

33km from Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site · 2 sites · Lodging
Please read before booking. Maybe you love camping but don’t want to pitch a tent tonight—or maybe you just want a simple place to unplug and breathe. If you’re seeking a full kitchen or bathroom, this isn’t the right fit. But if you want a back-to-basics stay that helps you reconnect with nature (without sleeping on the ground), The Spruce is for you. This is close-to-off-grid camping with a twist of comfort: furnished pine cabins tucked into the forest. The Spruce (220 sq ft) offers: Queen Haven mattress in the loft (ladder access) Writing nook with desk + chair Pull-out couch (sleeps 2 more) Direct-vent propane heater Rugs, shelves, mirror, and tall windows for natural light Private deck with dining bench/outdoor seating for coffee or stargazing Sleeps up to 4 guests Cooking & Dining: Butane stove (BYO butane, or add-on available) Cooking essentials (frying pan, pot, utensils, dishes, cups, flatware for 4) Off-Grid Essentials: Outdoor grill counter with space for meal prep and cooking 🚫 No electricity inside (Wi-Fi available at gazebo) 💧 Bring your own water (we can guide you to local springs) 🛏️ Bedding not included — bring your own or add on a bedding set Shared Spaces: Cinderella incineration-toilet bathroom bunkie Covered gazebo with lounge + Wi-Fi — your spot to connect or plan your next adventure Trail to the Margaree River (steep steps — use at your own risk) Add-Ons: Bedding set: $30 Butane canister: $8 Propane canister: $8 Tucked in a forested area of the property, The Spruce is a private off-grid bunkie designed for peaceful rest and deep exhale. Wake to the sound of birds, sip coffee on the deck beneath rustling spruce branches (and neighboring grouse), and watch the light shift through the trees as the day unfolds. Inside, you’ll find a cozy main level with a pull-out couch and tall wood ceilings that draw your eyes up. Climb the ladder to a spacious loft with a queen Haven mattress and a writing nook for slow mornings or quiet reflection — your nest in the trees. The direct-vent propane heater keeps you warm on cool nights, and large windows on both levels let the outdoors in. Outside, you’ll find a rustic outdoor dining area with a handmade wooden table.
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Wifi
from 
CA$120
 / night

16. The Dancing Moose Vacation rentals

100%
(3)
51km from Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site · 4 sites · Lodging
The Dancing Moose Vacation rentals, (formally the Dancing Moose Cafe) is a beautiful 3.5 acre ocean front, (rock) beach accessible property, located right on the Cabot Trail, one of the most scenic routes in the world! We are located on the east side (sunrise) on the Cabot Trail, about 15 minutes from Ski Cape Smokey, 25 minutes from the entrance of the Cape Breton Highland National Park with over 35 well maintained hikes. The on site restaurant, The Dancing Moose Cafe, is changing its activity starting this year (2025) and will only be open, serving breakfast for guests that stay on the property. Full a la carte breakfast is available, including our "famoose" Dutch Pannekoek. Breakfast is optional and not included in the rental fee. There are 4 different kind of vacation rentals on the property, The Sleeping Moose Cottage (1x), The Zzzz Moose Camping Cabins (3x) The ZzzzMoose 2.0 Camping Cabin (1x) and the Birch Plain Tower 1x). The Sleeping Moose has a minimum of 2 nights. All other rentals can be booked for 1 night, or more of course. Except for the Birch Plain Tower al our vacation rentals are pet friendly. (as long as you see this message it means we are working on setting up the rental units)
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CA$91
 / night

18. Alpine Ridge Off-Grid Getaway

51km from Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent
Connecting with nature, watching for wildlife, hunting, and many other activities await at this 25 acre property. The land is perfect for recreational use and off-grid use, including tent and RV camping. Note the entrance grass may be grown in so please prepare to walk to the site through the trees. Topographically, the terrain is more or less level throughout, the site is forested throughout in maturing spruce, tamarack, pine, maple birch and poplar trees. A small brook runs along the westerly boundary and continues East and North to the Mull River and Mabou River. There is also a large portion of Crown land bordering the southern end of this parcel. This quiet region has remained pretty well unchanged over the years. Highway 19 and the Atlantic Ocean are only minutes West via Alpine Ridge Road. The area is surrounded by forest covered hills, rolling farm land and valleys dissected by dozens of streams. Enjoy the quiet country setting of this property, while still living within minutes of nearby towns and all necessary amenities. Rectangular in shape, this lot offers ample road frontage... 572.4 feet or 174.5 meters, along the gravel surfaced Alpine Ridge Road, providing excellent year round access. Here you have plenty of privacy is offered by the spruce, tamarack, fir, pine, and poplar trees on the land. This lovely treed lot is a great spot for an off-grid retreat with tent or rv camping. Fishing in the area is very good. The nearby Mabou River and Southwest Mabou River and many other surrounding brooks and streams will provide endless fishing enjoyment. Within an hours drive of your land is the Margaree River - one of the most beautiful rivers in North America. Since the last century fly fishermen have come from all over the world to this area to catch their salmon. The North East Margaree has more than 60 pools and a length of approx. 40 km from the mouth to the sanctuary. The beautiful Lake Ainslie and breathtaking Bras d'Or Lakes are also within convenient reach of your land for those who enjoy world class boating and sailing. Fishing in the Bras d'Or Lake is also very good. In winter, enjoy snowmobiling on maintained trails that link the trail communities across the Highlands. Cross country ski and snowshoe on countless trails around your property. Or enjoy ice fishing on a frozen bay or nearby lake. There are endless opportunities for outdoor activities all year on and around. Two newly developed world class golf courses, Cabot Links and Cabot Cliffs, in the seaside town of Inverness are also within easy reach. These challenging courses are attracting visitors from around the world and offer magnificent views of the breathtaking Cape Breton landscape, with postcard worthy panoramas vying for your attention. The charming communities of Mabou and Port Hood are only a 10 minute drive from the site. Mabou is known for it’s friendly people and hospitality - welcoming locals will be sure to make you feel right at home. Shopping, a post office, accommodations, and a variety of local dining options are available in Mabou. Mabou Harbour is absolutely stunning and offers excellent boating and fishing with easy corridor to ocean waters. You can also stock up on all necessary supplies in Port Hood - whether you’re looking for groceries or camping supplies... not to mention wonderful sand beaches! Alpine Ridge Property Features - 572.40 feet (174.5 meters) of roadfront along Alpine Ridge Road. - Easterly boundary measures 1881.19 feet (573.39 meters). - Southerly boundary measures 503.22 feet (153.38 meters). - Westerly boundary measures 1989.96 feet (606.54 meters). - Borders Crown Land on southerly end. - Excellent level terrain suitable for many uses. - No drive through sites, please park at entrance and camp on site - The property lines are clearly marked. Amenities - 6 miles (10 kilometers) from the coastal village of Mabou. - 7 miles (11.5 kilometers) from the seaside community of Port Hood. - 8 miles (13.5 kilometers) to popular West Mabou Beach, and close to many more beaches in the area. - 20 miles (32 kilometers) to the scenic community of Inverness, Nova Scotia & world class golf courses, Cabot Links and Cabot Cliffs. - 40 miles (60 kilometers) to the town of Port Hawkesbury. - 3 hours to Halifax International Airport. Community & Surrounding Area - The charming communities of Baddeck, Cheticamp, and Judique are just a short drive away - enjoy family outings while taking in maritime history and culture. - Breathtaking attractions like the Cabot Trail and Cape Breton Highlands Park, Bras d'Or Lake, and beautiful sandy beaches along the coast with some of the warmest water in Nova Scotia. - Enjoy numerous water activities like boating, sailing, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and plenty of other outdoor adventures. - Excellent hunting in the area.
Pets
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from 
CA$41
 / night
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The best camping in Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, AB guide

Overview

About

Get a rare glimpse into the extraordinary heart and mind of a world-famous inventor whose genius helped shape the modern world. Pull the curtain back on Alexander Graham Bell’s interests and inventions, spanning airplanes and kites, to deaf education and artificial respiration. Feel his legacy come to life as you explore remarkable artifacts, photos and full-scale replicas that mark his masterful career as an engineer, inventor, scientist and humanitarian.

When to go

The best time to visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site is between May 19 and October 30, from 9am to 5pm, when the site is open daily. The summer months offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities, while the fall colours provide a stunning backdrop for your visit.

Know before you go

  • Check the calendar of events to participate in special programs and tours during your visit.
  • Admission is free for youth, making it an ideal family-friendly destination.
  • Facilities include EV charging stations, ensuring a convenient visit for electric vehicle owners.
  • Accessibility is a priority, with services designed to accommodate all visitors.
  • For a unique experience, book the White Glove Tour and delve deeper into Bell's legacy.

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