- Canso Islands National Historic Site
National Park
The best camping in Canso Islands National Historic Site, NS
Discover the rugged beauty of Canso Islands National Historic Site.
The best camping in Canso Islands National Historic Site, NS
Harbour View Park Model
1. Harbour View Park Model
100%
(1)
19km from Canso Islands National Historic Site · 1 site · Lodging
Wake up to panoramic views of Petit-de-Grat Harbour from this fully equipped park-model trailer. Perfect for couples seeking an affordable seaside escape, this cozy retreat has everything you need to relax and explore.
✔ Kayaks included – paddle the calm waters from your doorstep
✔ Private wharf – fish, unwind, or sip coffee over the water
✔ Stunning sunrises – start each day picture-perfect
✔ Strong Wi-Fi & Fire Stick TV – stay connected or stream with ease
Whether you’re exploring Isle Madame, casting a line, or simply relaxing by the harbour, this getaway blends comfort with coastal charm.
Please note small pets are accepted. 25$/pet
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
CA$113
/ night
Fred's Place
2. Fred's Place
30km from Canso Islands National Historic Site · 4 sites · Tents
2.3 acres of woodlot at the end of the road. Very rustic. Ideal for campers and bicycle campers. Very few facilities but you can put up a tent and have a fire. It's super quiet and the only sound is the wind and the very occasional car (like one a day).
Five minute walk to the ocean. 15 kms to the nearest store. I will be at my cabin but the property is large enuf for you to have total privacy if you want it. I can be reached by email at frederick.gardiner123abc@gmail.com.
I'm located at the end of Richard's Pond Lane. To get here, go to South Side Road, South Side River Bourgeois. Turn right on Richard's Pond Lane and follow it to the end. Turn right, go to the first sign that says 7/8 and follow the path up to my cabin. There is red tuck tape to show the way.
On the map, I am not The Cuffs, but the location is the same.
Campfires
Toilets
from
CA$25
/ night
Dome Yurt By The Ocean
3. Dome Yurt By The Ocean
31km from Canso Islands National Historic Site · 2 sites · Lodging
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
Where River Eagles Soar
4. Where River Eagles Soar
36km from Canso Islands National Historic Site · 1 site · RV
This property is located on River Inhabitants which is a tidal river going in and out from the North Atlantic 2x a day. We are not set up for tents yet but welcome RV's. A porta- potti and electricity are in place and running water will be available in late August. Located near the village of Cleveland and off Evanston Road. (Not sure why HC states it is near Antigonish?) Great fishing and kayaking but be mindful of the tides. Located nearby is a ranger tower to view the area and the stars above. Best to get all your supplies in Port Hawkesbury if u are just arriving on Cape Breton. Strait Richmond Hospital. is 10 min. away if needed. Please be mindful of our garden and young fruit trees. Please pack out all of you garbage as we do not have local garbage pickup... garbage can be disposed of in local towns. The town of Louisdale offers free potable water and dump station (located next to Babins Yamaha).
Electrical hookup
Pets
from
CA$30
/ night
Where Eagles Soar
5. Where Eagles Soar
100%
(1)
36km from Canso Islands National Historic Site · 3 sites · RVs
We are located 25 minutes from the causeway connecting mainland Nova Scotia to our beautiful Cape Breton Island home. We have 2 properties, at our home site we are on hill overlooking Upper MacMillin Lake in the village of Kemp Road.
Our 2nd property which is still being developed but available is a lot located on River Inhabitants near Cleveland. If you kayak/canoe this river will take you out to the ocean to explore the islands. we recently installed electricity and an outhouse and will have running water coming in September 2025. The amazing Cabot Trail is a day trip from our locations.
Enjoy great kayaking/canoeing from our locations!
**Nova Scotia does have a website to view for indication of fires to be allowed for the present day. Please check every day as fines are up to $25000.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from
CA$30
/ night
Waters Edge
6. Waters Edge
36km from Canso Islands National Historic Site · 1 site · RV
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
Basin Brook Camp
7. Basin Brook Camp
36km from Canso Islands National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent, RV
This 5 acre private campsite is located right off highway 316 very close to Tor Bay Provincial Park, which offers a lovely beach and trails. Basin Brook Camp features a driveway quickly leading to a flat area suitable for a trailer or tents. The property overlooks a wilderness area with stunning sunsets and quiet moonlit nights. It has a cleared area in which blackberries, raspberries and blueberries grow. At the back of this cleared area is a marked trail leading to the shoreline on Gammons Basin. Along one side of the campsite land is Basin Brook, which is a tidal stream that can be accessed easily by the road. Deer have been seen on the property, and moose, otters and seabirds nearby. Basin Brook Camp is quiet and secluded with no neighbours in sight.
Please note that this is a drive on and off site so a trailer would need to be backed in. There is no room to turn around.
Pets
Campfires
from
CA$32
/ night
Rivers Edge
8. Rivers Edge
39km from Canso Islands National Historic Site · 1 site · RV
🌊 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
Sunrise Cove
9. Sunrise Cove
44km from Canso Islands National Historic Site · 1 site · RV
Parking lot
Pets
from
CA$20
/ night
Riverside Retreat
10. Riverside Retreat
50km from Canso Islands National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent, RV
This is a beautiful slice of land along the Milford Haven River on the water side of the North Riverside Road; the entire piece is yours for the duration of your stay. Hear loons, bald eagles, kingfishers and shorebirds as you enjoy a salt water swim! Yes there is a gravel slip way for small boats and easier access to the water (water shoes recommended!). Enjoy a walk to the falls on the upper property or check out a few near by.
We are 15 minutes from the town of Guysborough and 20 minutes from Monastery and the Trans Canada.
Pets
Campfires
from
CA$65
/ night
Silver Birch Camp
11. Silver Birch Camp
100%
(8)
50km from Canso Islands National Historic Site · 1 site · RV
A beautiful little gem on the shores of Archie Pond (a small inlet off The Strait of Canso) and minutes from Cape Breton Island. Tucked into nature right off the Trans Canada Hwy and close to amenities. Tim Hortons, Irving, Subway and more just down the road and grocery stores plus more restaurants and pubs in town 10 minutes away.
Tons of trails and waterfalls are just minutes away.
On our property you can enjoy our 2 bonfire pits, bbq & picnic area, 4 adult kayaks and 3 kids kayaks (lifejackets provided), large open area for games, walk through the forested area, sit by the waterfront, gaze at the stars, watch the spectacular sunrise over the water and walk across the road to the rocky shore of The Strait of Canso.
Pets
from
CA$65
/ night
Kaia's lake home
12. Kaia's lake home
57km from Canso Islands National Historic Site · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
160 acres of forest and hiking. 3000ft of virgin lake on the south east coast of beautiful cape Breton. Upper Joseph marie lake. The lake
Is about a mile from the road. Set up your camp or tent by mobile home and explore the land. You can canoe or fish on lake 2hich navigates to lower Marie Joseph lake and to ocean.
Pets
Campfires
from
CA$33
/ night
Bunkies on Bras d'Or
13. Bunkies on Bras d'Or
57km from Canso Islands 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
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
CA$144
/ night
Fluster Cluck Farms
14. Fluster Cluck Farms
100%
(1)
59km from Canso Islands National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent
**OUR CAMPSITES ARE CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE DUE TO AN UNEXPECTED EMERGENCY**
We welcome you to enjoy the beauty of our property.
Enjoy the night under the stars.
Fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the river flowing along side the campground.
Located in Glendale, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.
A storied land with more tales to be written.
Rich in natural beauty.
Cape Breton Island is known for its warmth and our generous need to share it with the world...now it’s your turn to see for yourself.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
CA$30
/ night
C
15. C
50%
(3)
63km from Canso Islands National Historic Site · 3 sites · Lodging
supplies. Bedding supplied for one double bed. Extra blankets are available.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
CA$48
/ night
Eastman Cottage
16. Eastman Cottage
75km from Canso Islands National Historic Site · 1 site · Lodging
Discover peace and privacy in the wilderness of the Eastern Shore, just a quick 12-minute drive from the historic Sherbrooke Village.
Indulge in trout fishing as you cast a line into the picturesque flowing brook directly in front of the cottage.
For golf enthusiasts, the 9-hole Red Hill Golf Course is conveniently located just one minute away!
If ATV adventures are your passion, you're in luck! Our location is accessible via trail systems from Antigonish, Guysborough, and Pictou counties. Why not choose us as your home base to explore this side of the province?
Only a 10-minute drive away, you'll find yourself at the stunning Port Hilford Beach, and just 5 minutes to Indian Harbour Lake.
We offer one double bed in one room and single bunk beds in another. One single cot available on site and a double memory foam mattress for the pull out couch as well. The cabin is cozy and offers all the essentials for your visit 😊.
Please send a message if you have any questions!
STR2425B4753
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
CA$149
/ night
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Canso Islands National Historic Site adventure.
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
E
Eric
August 2025
19 ft Class B
Very easy to book. The site was nice and level, tucked away on their side yard. Adjacent to a pond. We were only there for a brief time but it was the perfect location on our travels going west. I would avoid the restaurant down the street. Nice folks but vibe, food and drinks left a lot to be desired. Also, bring bug spray in the summer.
See moreS
Sarah
July 2025
23 ft campervan
With kids
Nice flat parking area. Pretty view. The bonus was the easy walk to a great restaurant and playground!
See more
a
amy
July 2025
Weekend Trip to C
It’s true- the cabin is both cozy and convenient! A very basic plywood shed has been loved into a sweet little spot. The bed was very comfortable. I literally was just there to sleep, and it had everything I needed for a comfortable stay. Thanks!
See more
Y
Yurii
May 2025
12 ft campervan
My girlfriend and I had a wonderful time at this campsite! The access to the location is very convenient, and the area is absolutely beautiful — a true gem for nature lovers. The host is incredibly kind, welcoming, and attentive to every detail. He explained where the best fishing spots are, helped us launch the kayak, and even suggested the best place to set up our tarp.
Even though the weather was damp and rainy, we still wanted to light a campfire, and the host kindly helped us with firewood — that meant a lot. The surrounding nature is breathtaking: there's a lake right nearby with an island. We didn’t explore it this time, but we’re definitely planning to do so next time!
There are a few great spots on the property for parking a camping trailer or pitching a tent. The host truly cares about his guests, and it shows in everything he does. We highly recommend this place — you won’t regret visiting! It was an unforgettable and amazing experience. Huge thanks to the host for his care, kindness, and hospitality!
See moreThe best camping in Canso Islands National Historic Site, NS guide
Overview
About
Travel to a time when remote fishing ports dotted the Atlantic coast and England and France vied for control of North America. Home to the remains of an 18th century fishing settlement and the ruins of a battle-ravaged earthen fort, Canso Islands National Historic Site welcomes curious explorers upon its windswept shores to journey through the history that forged a nation.
When to go
The ideal time to visit Canso Islands National Historic Site is during the summer months, from July 1 to September 4, when the site is open daily from 10am to 1pm & 2pm to 6pm. Outside these times, the harsh Atlantic weather can make the experience less enjoyable.
Know before you go
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can be unpredictable amid the Atlantic setting.
- Accessibility may vary across the site, so inquire ahead if you have specific needs.
- Remember to bring water and snacks, as local services are limited.
- Wear sturdy footwear for exploring the rugged terrain and archaeological sites.
- Respect the site's historical significance and follow all guidelines to preserve its integrity.
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