National Park
The best camping in Melanson Settlement National Historic Site, NS
Discover the historic charm of Melanson Settlement amid Nova Scotia's natural beauty.
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Melanson Settlement National Historic Site adventure.
Top-rated campsites near Melanson Settlement National Historic Site
Moss Cottage Forest Glamping
1. Moss Cottage Forest Glamping
100%
(27)
14km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 1 site
Nestled in the Acadian Forest, Moss is a tranquil getaway. Experience bird song and owl hoots, watch wildlife come right up to your windows. Sit in the screen porch and listen to the wind in the trees, look at the stars and just breathe. Walk the meadows, visit the pond and keep your eyes open for tasty foraged treats. Inside you can enjoy a lush queen size bed, comfy seating to read a book or do a puzzle. The kitchenette is ready to make a pot of tea and light meals. Get back to nature here and enjoy the history of the Cradle of our Nation.
With the historic and first town settled in Canada in 1604, Annapolis Royal is a short drive away or take your bike on the Harvest Moon Trail, the former Dominion Atlantic Canadian Rail Line, which runs along the Annapolis River. Visit Fort Anne or The Habitation at Port Royal for a step back into history. Walk through the Historic Gardens or stroll the beautiful streets of downtown Annapolis and experience food, drink and live events and the oldest farmers market in Nova Scotia.
There are boat launches, and lots of lakes to swim and paddle on within 10 minutes of the cottage.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
Pickles Place
2. Pickles Place
91%
(17)
16km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent, RV
We have a half acre lake front lot with privacy. We have access directly to the lake from the lot and a laneway for a small boat as well. There is fishing, paddle boarding, boating, hiking and walking on these quiet roads in the wilderness. The Bay of Fundy is down the road maybe 2-5 min. If you want peace and quiet then here it is, a nice fresh lot on a lake out in the middle of no where. We DO NOT have any any of the equipment (kayaks, paddle boards and fishing equip) there you must bring your own.
There is no washroom or electricity yet, so please be aware of this.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Medway Community Forest Campground
3. Medway Community Forest Campground
100%
(23)
31km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 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/.
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Owl's Hollow Eco-Therapy Glamping
4. Owl's Hollow Eco-Therapy Glamping
99%
(76)
55km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Get back to nature at our lakefront eco-therapy camping and glamping properties where you will experience serene lake life and forest bathing at its best! Owl's Hollow offers you private camping and glamping on Tupper Lake at one of two unique sites: The Hut and The Perch. Each site is tucked away at the end of its own walk-in trail where you find yourself at the water's edge yet surrounded by majestic white pines. This is a quiet part of the lake with very few residents and motorized boats. Book The Hut or The Perch site at Owl's Hollow for your next camping adventure and be as lazy or active as your body needs to rejuvenate. Guaranteed the experience will bring you back to the calmness you may have been missing!
By booking Owl's Hollow lodging/camping, you agree to save and hold harmless Karen and Ben Perry from any liability arising out of your stay. You acknowledge that there are hazards such as uneven surfaces, heights, bodies of water, wildfire, wildlife and noxious plants that are beyond the control of the owner and you assume all responsibility for your own safety.
Nova Scotia Registration Number: RYA-2023-24-04051421027007770-28
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Clowater Land & Cattle Farm Stay
5. Clowater Land & Cattle Farm Stay
90%
(10)
62km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Clowater Land & Cattle Farm Stay — a relaxed farm‑stay on the shore of the Bay of Fundy, offering a refreshing escape surrounded by open fields, wildlife, and coastal views.
Park your tent or camper on our spacious field and enjoy peaceful nature, sea breezes, and starry nights away from city noise.
Wake up to gentle rural rhythms and enjoy easy access to trails, wide open spaces for hiking or quiet walks, and sweeping views that make this a great base for coastal exploring or simple relaxation. Access to the beach from the property is not possible due to the hillside. There are a number of beaches nearby within a short walk, bicycle ride, or by vehicle.
Bring your friends, your dog, or just yourself — Clowater offers a calm, welcoming stay where you can unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a slice of rural New Brunswick life.
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R&R Camping
6. R&R Camping
95%
(11)
64km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
The campground is located on Long Island a five minute ferry ride from the mainland. The campground is a mixture of old and new forest the sites were planned with privacy in mind. Each of the sites are different offering a variety of choices. Just 100 feet from the driveway is the trailhead for the Balancing Rock a top attraction in Nova Scotia. There is also many whale watching tours offered on the two islands. You can also go beach combing along different areas of the Island.
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Toilets
Campfires
The Cove at Hirtle Lake
7. The Cove at Hirtle Lake
100%
(22)
74km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 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
Ashland Lake Retreats At Grant Lake
8. Ashland Lake Retreats At Grant Lake
100%
(14)
75km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 1 site
Escape to Nature at Our Family-Run Campground!
Nestled between Bridgewater and New Germany, Nova Scotia, our mother-and-son team welcomes you to a peaceful, park-like retreat in beautiful New Canada. Whether you choose a lakefront site or a backlot site (with full lake access), you’ll find the perfect spot to relax and reconnect with nature.
Enjoy 2,000 feet of pristine shoreline, scenic walking paths, and an abundance of wildlife — from loons and Canadian geese to deer wandering through the grounds. Every season brings exciting new campsites and RV spaces, adding even more opportunities for adventure!
We keep it simple here — no hookups, just pure tranquility. A porta potty is provided for campers, and RVs must be self-contained. No dump station is available — just fresh air, starry skies, and the peaceful sounds of nature.
Looking for a little local fun? Just a short drive away, enjoy Friday night variety shows at the Bluegrass Association Park or Tuesday evening music jams at the Branch LaHave Community Hall. Plus, local suppers, craft shows, ox pulls, and more make every visit a true taste of Nova Scotia hospitality.
Unplug, unwind, and experience the simple beauty of lakeside camping — we can’t wait to welcome you!
Pets
Fundy Fantasy Oceanfront Cabin
9. Fundy Fantasy Oceanfront Cabin
100%
(2)
6.3km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 1 site
Oceanfront cabin located on the famous Bay of Fundy. Very private location! Absorb stunning sunsets peacefully touching down on the water. Perfect for couples looking to step back from the over stimulation of their everyday environments. One square inch of silence, and it's yours.
Firepit, outdoor heated shower (seasonal), odor free outdoor composting toilet. Woodburning stove, fridge.
The kitchen is equipped with all necessary cooking supplies. Fresh linens, towels and toiletries are supplied.
Designed and owner build.
STR2627B5760
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Andromeda House
10. Andromeda House
100%
(1)
12km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 1 site
Andromeda House sits on 30 beautiful acres, stretching from our waterfront to the top of the Mountain. Perched dramatically above the Annapolis Basin, the views here are truly awe-inspiring—and only get more breathtaking as one explores higher up on the property.
Our path network is maintained for access to the very satisfying “Upper Lookout”. This path continues and you might just find your hosts working on this area. There are also various mountain access roads provide terrific hiking and mountain biking opportunities. Photography, rock hounding, mushroom hunting and star gazing are ideal activities. Birders in particular should be pleased.
The property has been in our family for generations and an old sled path winds through and up it. We are also developing a spring-fed swimming pond this summer.
Currently, we have new fields of sunflowers and wildflowers to attract pollinators—bumble bees, hummingbirds and monarch butterflies are especially abundant here. Wild apple trees abound and there is a stand of old maple trees we will be tapping next spring. Beyond that is a mature Beech and Poplar forest.
We are within walking distance to Victoria Beach, an authentic fishing village nestled at the base of the north mountain and surrounded by the Annapolis Basin, the Digby Gut and the Bay of Fundy.
Did we mention the views?
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The MareGold Centre
11. The MareGold Centre
100%
(3)
13km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 3 sites
Perched on 200ft cliff of coastline the MareGold Centre is a place to enjoy nature, education, wellness and the arts. Our cabins offer different levels of getaways from off-grid simple tiny cabins to larger cabins with kitchen and full bathrooms. Most importantly, guests come for a quiet, peaceful and restful stay. Within the 30 acres there are herbal gardens, maple forest, a pond, fields, trails and the best sunset in Nova Scotia. The entire property is non-smoking.
Toilets
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Potable water
Bear River Millyard Resort &RV Park
12. Bear River Millyard Resort &RV Park
100%
(9)
16km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 2 sites
Listing description
Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. This peaceful and relaxing environment immerses you in nature and provides plenty to see and do.
Fishing, Kayaking, Canoeing, Bird Watching, Bike Rides, Hikes, Wine Tasting, Getting lost in Town, Famous Digby Scallops, Enjoy sunsets over the water
However if you do want to explore further there is plenty to do in Digby and the Annapolis Valley - Book on our site brmillyard
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Grumpy Bear Hollow
13. Grumpy Bear Hollow
100%
(2)
17km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 1 site
Lakefront 2 bedroom cottage. From sitting on the deck watching the ducks to fishing in a stocked lake or even a night by the camp fire. A evening under the stars on the finger that jets out into the water. Fully functioning kitchen and BBQ. All that's needed is clothes and food. Bedding, bath towel, and beach towels all provided. Games for rainy days or colouring books to help pass some time. You'll relax from the start at this beautiful spot.
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The Little Gem
14. The Little Gem
100%
(1)
21km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 1 site
Small 3 bedroom for 6 persons max, 1 bath cottage located on Sandy Bottom Lake that is excellent for Swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing or any water sport activity. Located close to Keji Provincial Park for Hiking, exploring and kayaking/canoeing. Located close to the historical town of Annapolis Royal where you can enjoy shopping quaint shops and the Saturday farmers market , also Fort Anne historical site is located here. Cottage is fully furnished with 3 queen beds and full kitchen/ barbeque for all your cooking needs. Large wrap around Deck that is partially covered and also a Firepit area for your campfire needs. On site parking. Wifi with smart Tv in Living room for those rainy days . Dual wall unit for heating and air conditioning .
RYA-2023-24-04051336120000754-55
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Six Owls retreat
15. Six Owls retreat
100%
(2)
45km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
28 acres just 5 minutes from the quaint town of Weymouth. A clearing at the edge of the woods allows for you to connect with nature as you fall asleep to the sounds of the night owls. Fire pit on site. Lovely stream on the property, and a good hike allows for access to the Sissiboo river. Lots of downed firewood, so just bring your tent and gear. Free spring water nearby.
Pets
Campfires
Harmony Mills Farm
16. Harmony Mills Farm
57km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 10 sites
Located only 16 Kilometres to Kejimkujik Park. This is the ideal location to stay at for the middle southern area of Nova Scotia. There is a restaurant/cafe only 4 mins away along with a grocery store. 5 mins away you have a liquor store, pharmacy and even a gas station which sells a bit of everything!
Pets
Hobby Farm
17. Hobby Farm
58km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent, RV
There are trails for bikes and 4 wheelers, I also have 30 acres of wooded land for walking. Many lakes around for boating and swimming.
We are located 30 min from Yarmouth for all of your shopping needs. We are very laid back people, and our looking forward to offering our land for camping fun.
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Campfires
Homesteading On The 340
18. Homesteading On The 340
59km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent, RV
If you are looking for a quiet open area, this is the site for you. Wide open field to accommodate any size RV to a tent.
Sissibou Falls is minutes away.
Ten minutes from the number 1 highway and Fifteen minutes from Bay.
There is one site available with power.
There is water and Wifi available at the house.
No cleanout.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Birkwood Camp
19. Birkwood Camp
100%
(1)
66km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 1 site
This 3.5 acres of woodlot, situated in "Cottage Country" Nova Scotia is home to my canvas wall tent and a couple of sites for pitching tents.
The tent is cozy and has a woodstove for 4 season enjoyment, mattresses for single or double bed configuration.
This is part of "Cottage Country" and there are plenty of trails to hike or ski. There is lake access, but it isn't a great lake for swimming.
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Hidden Cove
20. Hidden Cove
100%
(5)
72km from Melanson Settlement National Historic Site · 1 site
Quiet lakefront property with private waterfront access, perfect for a peaceful outdoor getaway. Unserviced sites are available for tents or self-contained campers, offering a simple off-grid experience.
Enjoy easy access to kayak rentals and explore the lake at your own pace. Conveniently located just 25 minutes from Saint John and 25 minutes from St. Martins.
Pets
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Kim
1 week ago
Tent
With pets
Our 2nd trip to this gorgeous spot. The lake and surrounding woods are so beautiful.
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Katie
1 week ago
Weekend Trip to Moss Cottage Forest Glamping
We had a really lovely stay! The moss cottage was so cute and had everything we needed to feel at home. Even on a chilly October night the bed was so cozy and comfortable. The breakfast was delicious!
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Alison
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Very peaceful spot! Good amenities and private.
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Laura
3 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Lovely time! Beautiful property!
Only hope that there might be lake access in the future for star gazing! 🙂
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Lesley
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
It’s a great spot! The forest is beautiful and we had a great view of the lake. The trail, site, and infrastructure are all well done. We will be back. Thank you!
See moreMichelle
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Moss Cottage Forest Glamping
This was a beautiful, cozy, peaceful spot. The owners really put a lot of thought into creating a wonderful experience and it was really appreciated. Highly recommend booking a stay here!
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Trevor
3 weeks ago
25 ft campervan
Beautiful level site overlooking the Bay of Fundy. Stunning location where you wake to the sun rising over the water. Nothing fancy, just perfect!
See moreGrant
September 2026
2 nights at Moss Cottage Forest Glamping
Everything stood out with Moss Cottage…it was the most wonderful spot in the middle of nature. From the breakfast’s, to the view, to the screen room, to the deck outside the screen room…..all was amazing! Chantelle and Gary were wonderful hosts….and Fern as well :). We would highly recommend this spot if what you want to do is get away from it all, this is the place and we will for sure return!
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Rebecca
September 2026
Tent
With pets
Absolutely lovely little spot. Can't wait to come back in the summer when it is a little warmer!
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Hannah
September 2026
4 nights at Moss Cottage Forest Glamping
Absolutely fantastic. This cottage is fully equipped for a perfect, comfortable stay. On top of that, Chantelle and Greg are incredible hosts who will magically make anything you need appear! We drove the long way (no ferry’s) from Maine both ways but we will definitely try to make it back here one day. BREAKFAST- you have to add it to your stay. Chantelle had amazing recommendations for food! Super kind hosts, a beautiful place to stay. We got to meet their dog too, she was a highlight of the trip for sure. We didn’t want to leave! Thank you!!!
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Luke
September 2026
Tent
With pets
Me, the girlfriend, and our dog stayed for a couple nights at cove 2. It was lovely, now I must say I would only book cove 2 myself after viewing the others. Absolutely beautiful
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Joel M.
September 2026
Tent
With kids
Our family had a really nice stay at Karen’s camp. Having the dock right there made it easy to get out on the water with the paddle boards and kayaks, and it was great not having to bring our own. The fire pit is close to the water too, which made for a really nice spot to sit in the evenings. We actually didn’t even set up our tents and just slept on the platforms.
A few things worth knowing:
* We found the canoe pretty tippy. It worked, but it wasn’t very relaxing, so we ended up not using it.
* The owners were very helpful when we asked for more drinking water. There were six of us, and we went through the first big jug in about a day.
* Caledonia is only about a 15-minute drive away and has a small grocery store if you need to pick up a few things.
Overall, we really enjoyed our stay and had a great time being right by the water.
See moreMatthew
September 2026
1 night at Moss Cottage Forest Glamping
Chantelle is a wonderful host and greeted us very warmly. The location feels very secluded and felt to us like a fairytale walk into the woods to find a magnificently charming chalet. The amenities, layout, and design surpassed our expectations. The attention to detail and the curated decor added to the a delightful expression of taste.
See moreDanielle
August 2026
1 night at Moss Cottage Forest Glamping
We absolutely loved our stay at this beautiful cabin in the woods, we will absolutely be back and will highly recommend to all of our friends and family!
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Kenya
August 2026
2 nights at Moss Cottage Forest Glamping
Our first Hipcamp experience, Chantelle and Gary have set the bar SO high!!
Thank you for allowing us to experience Nova Scotia for the first time from this tranquil and beautifully styled cabin in the woods. Your eye for detail is incredible and clearly no detail has been spared. We’ll be thinking about that stunning breakfast until we (hopefully) are back enjoying it again in the future!
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Dawnalee
August 2026
12 ft rooftop tent
It was private on a lake beautiful view our own canoe. I even got to blueberry pick lots of sites around to hike and waterfalls will definitely be back.
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Rowan
August 2026
1 night at Moss Cottage Forest Glamping
Beautiful property with cozy 70’s vibes, lots of thoughtful touches throughout the space. Chantelle baked cookies which my partner loved. Great communication. And her husband escorted us through the dark(we arrived late) to the cabin! Wish we could stay longer!
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Ashley
August 2026
Tent
The land and lake was absoloutely gorgeous! It was very quiet, relaxing and close to Annapolis Royal. If we could go back for a longer period, we would. We had a great time. 10/10!
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Bekah
August 2026
16 ft car
Quiet green space with lake view, clear directions and good communication from host.
See moreErin
August 2026
Tent
With pets
We had a great time at the Owls Nest-The Perch. Unfortunately we didn’t have the best weather for the majority of our stay but we made the best of it….went fishing and with the perch had a dry area to enjoy!!! Would highly recommend recommend 5/5
See moreMelanson Settlement National Historic Site camping guide
Overview
About
An archaeological survey undertaken in 1984 on quiet farmland on the banks of the Annapolis River unlocked the key to the history of the Acadian settlers who lived here throughout the 17th and 18th centuries. The Melanson Settlement revealed a system of dykeland farming unique among Acadians living in North America which involved families and neighbours cooperatively working the land. Stroll the path and take in the view over the marshlands and fields.
When to go
The ideal time to visit Melanson Settlement National Historic Site is between June 1 and October 13, when the site is open daily. The summer months offer warm weather perfect for exploring, while autumn brings a stunning display of fall foliage. Winter visits are less ideal due to harsher weather and limited access.
Know before you go
- Admission to Melanson Settlement National Historic Site is free, making it an accessible adventure for all.
- Check important bulletins and weather forecasts before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Visitor guidelines are in place to protect the site's cultural heritage and natural environment; please adhere to them.
- Facilities and services are available to enhance your visit; consult maps and directions for detailed information.
- For any inquiries, the site can be contacted at 902-532-2321.
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