The Best Places to Camp in New Brunswick’s Provincial Parks
From remote backcountry camping to idyllic beachside campsites, New Brunswick boasts an array of amazing camping opportunities. What better way to experience East Coast camping than by staying in a provincial park?
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in nature or a thrilling backcountry adventure, this province has it all. Here are nine provincial parks for your next camping trip.
North Lake Provincial Park
For those looking for an “unplugged” camping experience, visit New Brunswick’s North Lake Provincial Park. With limited services and 45 spacious campsites, this off-grid gem allows you to disconnect from everyday life. Enjoy canoeing, kayaking and fishing on the North Lake, or partake in a multi-day paddling excursion from the park to Passamaquoddy Bay.
Mount Carleton Provincial Park
Mount Carleton Provincial Park is a remarkable place to experience a diverse array of wildlife and rare plants. Hikers will find themselves enthralled by the park’s 13 trails, ranging from accessible paths to exhilarating mountain treks.
With various camping options on Nictau Lake, Mount Carleton promises easy access to the water and the park is a Dark Sky Preserve. With four distinct campgrounds, solo adventurers and families can choose between a comfortable camping experience or a rugged adventure at the base of the mountains.
Murray Beach Provincial Park
Murray Beach Provincial Park, located along the Acadian Coastal Drive, is a quiet park known for its incredible sunrises and sunsets. Visitors can marvel at the iconic Confederation Bridge and explore the nearby Cape Jourimain Nature Centre. Sea kayaking, bird watching, farmers markets, lighthouses, festivals and historic sites are all within reach. The park’s seaside camping includes 111 sites and eight cabins.
Herring Cove Provincial Park
Nestled on Campobello Island is Herring Cove Provincial Park. From trekking through ancient spruce forests to spotting impressive wildlife, such as bald eagles and ospreys, visitors will find themselves immersed in nature while hiking the park’s trails.
With 88 oceanside campsites, Campobello Island is a beachside haven. You will need to take a ferry to partake in this island adventure. Ferries are first-come, first-serve.
Parlee Beach Provincial Park
Parlee Beach Provincial Park is home to one of North America’s finest beaches. The park is on the stretch of coastline that boasts the warmest saltwater beaches in Canada, as well as the prestigious Blue Flag eco-certification.
The campground features over 210 well-maintained sites, just a short 10-minute walk from the beach. With the sites being close to restaurants and microbreweries, Parlee Beach Provincial Park provides a vibrant social scene, so you don’t have to cook at the campsite every night.
Mactaquac Provincial Park
Located along the Saint John River lies Mactaquac Provincial Park. This woodland paradise offers a range of year-round outdoor activities, such as hiking and interpretive nature walks. With over 300 campsites, the Mactaquac campground invites visitors to stay and enjoy the freshwater beaches, the park’s golf course, boat marina and various family-friendly events.
Sugarloaf Provincial Park
For those embarking on wilderness adventures on two wheels, visit Sugarloaf Provincial Park for some epic mountain biking. Located in the Appalachian Mountain region, the park offers impressive mountain biking and hiking trails, including trails to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain. Families and outdoor enthusiasts alike can enjoy the park’s various amenities, such as tennis courts and lake access.
The family-friendly campground offers 79 campsites, including cozy chalets at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain.
New River Beach Provincial Park
Experience the coastal paradise of New River Beach Provincial Park, where camping and adventure meet the stunning Bay of Fundy. Visitors can explore the sandy beaches and coastal trails, delight in the tidal pools teeming with crabs, starfish and fascinating marine life and immerse themselves in ancient black spruce forests. Visitors can unleash their creativity at the annual Sand Sculpture Competition or indulge in recreational activities at the playground, volleyball courts and beaches.
The campground’s 99 campsites, rustic shelters and chalets are close to scenic coastal trails, perfect for a nature-infused getaway.
République Provincial Park
République Provincial Park is located on the shores of Madawaska River. The park features over 150 campsites, including rustic shelters and cozy Ch-A-Lets.
Visitors can immerse themselves in scenic hiking and cycling trails, engage in friendly competition on the volleyball and tennis courts or unwind at the heated swimming pool. There are shows throughout the summer in the amphitheatre, a games and craft room for kids and a lending “library” for gear like rackets and balls. On-site laundry facilities makes this an ideal place for families to settle in and stay awhile.
New Brunswick’s provincial parks are perfect for families and nature lovers seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure. From comfortable front-country camping to multi-day kayaking excursions, New Brunswick’s provincial parks provide the perfect backdrop for an enriching summer getaway.
This article was sponsored by Parks NB
Explore New Brunswick’s Provincial Parks: adventure in every direction.
Our mission is to provide inclusive, protected natural and cultural destinations that inspire wellness, enjoyment and education for all.
Learn more: https://parcsnbparks.ca/
