New Brunswick, nestled in Canada’s Maritime provinces, is a premier destination for RV camping, offering a rich tapestry of landscapes that captivate adventurers and nature lovers alike. From the world-famous tides of the Bay of Fundy to serene rivers, dense forests, and rugged coastal cliffs, the province provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor exploration. Whether you’re seeking the tranquility of a national park, the luxury of a glamping dome, or the fun of a family-friendly campground, New Brunswick has it all. This guide highlights the best RV camping spots, their unique features, and essential tips to plan your adventure, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this scenic region.
Why New Brunswick is a Premier RV Destination
New Brunswick’s appeal lies in its diverse natural beauty and accessibility. The province boasts the highest tides in the world, sandy beaches along the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and a bilingual culture that adds a unique charm. With over 100 RV parks and campgrounds, including provincial and national parks, private sites, and off-grid retreats, there’s something for every camper. The combination of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and well-equipped facilities makes New Brunswick a top choice for RV enthusiasts.
Overview of Landscapes
The province’s landscapes are a camper’s dream. Oceanfront sites offer views of dramatic tides and coastal cliffs, while forested areas provide shaded, serene settings. Rivers like the Saint John and Salmon offer opportunities for fishing and kayaking, and the Appalachian Range adds a rugged charm for hikers. Whether you prefer the salty breeze of the coast or the quiet of a woodland retreat, New Brunswick’s varied terrain ensures a perfect camping spot for every taste.
Provincial & National Park Campgrounds
New Brunswick’s provincial and national parks offer some of the most scenic and well-maintained campgrounds, ideal for RV campers seeking a blend of nature and amenities.
Fundy National Park
Fundy National Park, located along the Bay of Fundy, is renowned for its dramatic tides and coastal wilderness. It features several campgrounds, with Chignecto North and Point Wolfe being standout options for RV campers.
- Chignecto North: Situated 4 km northwest of the park headquarters, this large, wooded campground offers 263 sites in a fog-free highland setting. Amenities include washrooms with showers, laundry facilities, kitchen shelters, fire pits, and a dumping station. Families will appreciate the playgrounds and a family-friendly bicycling trail. It’s perfect for those seeking a balance of comfort and nature (Fundy National Park).
- Point Wolfe: For a more rustic experience, Point Wolfe offers a mix of unserviced and serviced sites (24 with electric and water hookups) in the heart of Fundy’s coastal wilderness. Located 8 km west of the park’s east entrance, it requires crossing the iconic Point Wolfe covered bridge. Hiking trails lead to Point Wolfe Beach, offering stunning views, though vehicles over 24 feet are restricted due to the bridge (Point Wolfe Campground).
Kouchibouguac National Park
Kouchibouguac National Park, on the Acadian Coast, is celebrated for its sandy beaches, salt marshes, and cultural heritage, making it a favorite for RV campers.
- South Kouchibouguac: This campground features 311 sites, including 126 with full hookups (electricity, water, sewer), 59 with electricity, and 98 unserviced sites. Located along the Kouchibouguac River, it offers washrooms with showers, kitchen shelters, fire pits, a dumping station, and two playgrounds. Its proximity to beaches and cycling paths makes it ideal for families (Kouchibouguac Camping).
- Backcountry Sites: For adventurous campers, Kouchibouguac offers three backcountry locations—Petit-Large, Sipu, and Pointe-à-Maxime—accessible by hiking or canoe. Each site includes fire pits, picnic tables, and pit toilets, with firewood available. These sites provide a primitive, immersive experience in the park’s wilderness (Backcountry Camping).
Mactaquac Provincial Park
Mactaquac Provincial Park, a year-round destination along the Saint John River, offers a variety of outdoor activities and a large campground.
- The campground features 401 sites, many with power and water hookups, accommodating RVs and tents. Amenities include laundry facilities, bathrooms with showers, playgrounds, and fire pits. The park’s river views and bird-watching trails make it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Additional activities like golfing and winter sports enhance its appeal (Mactaquac Provincial Park).
Oceanfront & Waterfront RV Parks
For RV campers seeking water views and coastal vibes, New Brunswick’s oceanfront and waterfront RV parks offer unforgettable experiences.
Sunset View Campground
Located along the Saint John River in Hawkshaw, Sunset View Campground provides a boutique-style camping experience with 70 sites, including full hookups (30/50 amp, water, sewer). Its stunning sunset vistas, swimming pool, and kayak rentals make it a relaxing retreat. The campground’s proximity to Fredericton (30 minutes) and Woodstock (25 minutes) adds convenience (Sunset View Campground).
Ocean Surf RV Park & Campground
In Shediac, known as the “Lobster Capital of the World,” Ocean Surf RV Park offers 350 fully serviced sites (30/50 amp) with pull-through options for large RVs. Amenities include an award-winning heated saltwater pool, two playgrounds, a soccer field, and a beach within walking distance. It’s ideal for exploring southeastern New Brunswick’s attractions (Ocean Surf RV Park).
Kiwanis Oceanfront Camping
Situated in St. Andrews, this campground overlooks Passamaquoddy Bay, offering full-service sites and amenities like WiFi, walking trails, and a playground. Operated by the Kiwanis Club, it’s open to all campers and is just a short walk from downtown St. Andrews, known for its festivals and marine science centers (Kiwanis Oceanfront Camping).
Iron Bound Cove RV Park
Located on the Salmon River between Chipman and Minto, Iron Bound Cove RV Park offers 75 fully serviced RV sites with access to boating, fishing, and swimming. Its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to Grand Lake make it a great base for water-based activities (Iron Bound Cove RV Park).
Family-Friendly Campgrounds
New Brunswick’s family-friendly campgrounds are designed to keep kids entertained and parents relaxed, with activities and amenities for all ages.
Jellystone Park™ New Brunswick
Located in Woodstock, Jellystone Park™ New Brunswick is a family fun resort with a 44-year tradition of quality and friendliness. It offers RV sites, tent sites, and cabin rentals, along with a water park, waterslides, mini-golf, and themed weekends featuring Yogi Bear™ characters. Daily activities ensure non-stop fun for kids (Jellystone Park NB).
Ponderosa Pines Campground
Near Hopewell Rocks, Ponderosa Pines Campground spans 150 acres with RV and tent sites, a swimming pool, walking trails, boat rentals, and a fishing pond. Its environmentally conscious design includes forests, lakes, and marshes, making it a nature-centric retreat for families (Ponderosa Pines).
Century Farm Family Campground
In St. Martins, near the Bay of Fundy, Century Farm Family Campground offers cabin and trailer rentals, a petting zoo, chip and putt, and WiFi. Highly rated by Woodall’s and Good Sam Club, it’s perfect for families looking to explore the nearby sea caves and Fundy Trail Provincial Park (Century Farm Campground).
Glamping & Unique Stays
For those seeking a blend of luxury and nature, New Brunswick’s glamping options provide unique and comfortable accommodations.
Balsam Ridge Forest Domes
In Portage Vale, Balsam Ridge Forest Domes offers luxury geodesic domes with private hot tubs, saunas, and expansive trail systems. Ideal for stargazing, these domes provide a treetop escape close to Nova Scotia and PEI borders (Balsam Ridge Forest Domes).
Bear Island Kingdome Glamping
Nestled on 11 acres of private woodland near the Saint John River, Bear Island Kingdome offers luxury domes with private hot tubs, paddleboarding, and fishing opportunities. Its serene setting is perfect for a tranquil getaway (Bear Island Kingdome).
Tides & Timber Glamping
Located in Bayside near St. Andrews, Tides & Timber Glamping features luxury domes overlooking the Passamaquoddy Bay. Each dome includes a private hot tub, fire pit, kitchenette, and access to watercrafts, ideal for enjoying the Bay of Fundy’s tides (Tides & Timber Glamping).
Rustic & Off-Grid Adventures
For campers craving a back-to-nature experience, New Brunswick’s rustic and off-grid sites offer immersion in the wilderness.
Fundy Woods Campground & Cottages
In St. Martins, Fundy Woods offers RV camping, tenting, cottages, and bunkie rentals with views of the Bay of Fundy. Its wooded setting and access to hiking trails make it a nature lover’s paradise, with nearby attractions like sea caves and Fundy Trail Provincial Park (Fundy Woods).
Castalia Marsh Retreat
On Grand Manan Island, Castalia Marsh Retreat provides eco-cabins and yurts overlooking a saltwater marsh and Swallowtail Lighthouse. Ideal for bird watching and canoe tours, it offers a peaceful, nature-focused retreat (Castalia Marsh Retreat).
Skedaddle Ridge Homestead
Located in Knowlesville, Skedaddle Ridge Homestead is part of a 130-acre off-grid intentional community. It features backcountry cabins, community gardens, trails, and natural features like waterfalls, offering a unique, sustainable camping experience (Skedaddle Ridge Homestead).
Essential RV-Camping Tips
To ensure a smooth RV camping experience in New Brunswick, consider the following tips based on common practices and campground policies.
Booking Windows
Most campgrounds operate from mid-May to mid-October, with peak season in July and August. Booking early is crucial, especially for popular sites like Fundy and Kouchibouguac National Parks. Reservations for provincial and national parks typically open in January or February (Parks Canada Reservations).
Hookups, Dump Stations, and Amenities
Many RV parks offer full hookups (water, electricity, sewer), while others, especially backcountry sites, may have no services. Dump stations are commonly available at RV parks and some provincial parks. Expect amenities like washrooms, showers, laundry, and playgrounds at most developed sites, but always check specifics with the campground.
Pet-Friendly Policies and Family-Friendly Rules
Most campgrounds are pet-friendly, requiring pets to be leashed and prohibiting them in certain areas like beaches or playgrounds. Family-friendly rules often include quiet hours (typically 11 PM to 7 AM), campfire regulations (extinguished by midnight at some sites), and organized activities for children. Always confirm policies when booking.
Local Attractions & Activities
New Brunswick’s natural and cultural attractions enhance any RV camping trip, offering a range of activities for all interests.
Hopewell Rocks & Fundy Tides
The Hopewell Rocks, located along the Bay of Fundy, are iconic for their flowerpot rock formations and extreme tides, allowing visitors to walk the ocean floor at low tide (Hopewell Rocks).
Whale Watching in Shediac Bay
Shediac Bay offers whale-watching tours where you can spot marine life like whales and seals, a thrilling experience for families and nature lovers (Shediac Bay Cruises).
Kayaking, Paddle-Boarding, and Guided Eco-Tours
Kayaking and paddle-boarding are popular along New Brunswick’s coasts and rivers, with rentals available at many campgrounds. Guided eco-tours provide insights into the region’s ecosystems and wildlife, particularly in national parks (Fundy National Park Activities).
Planning Your Trip
Proper planning ensures a seamless RV camping adventure in New Brunswick.
Route Mapping
Major routes like I-95 and the Trans-Canada Highway provide easy access to campgrounds, while coastal roads like the Fundy Coastal Drive offer scenic detours. Use mapping services like Google Maps or apps like AllStays for RV-friendly routes (AllStays).
Packing Checklist for Variable Coastal Weather
New Brunswick’s coastal weather can be unpredictable, with warm summers, occasional rain, and cooler evenings. Pack layers, rain gear, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent to stay comfortable.
Apps and Resources for On-the-Road Reservations
Apps like Campendium, RV LIFE, and Campspot offer real-time campground information and booking options. The Tourism New Brunswick website provides additional resources and travel guides (Tourism New Brunswick).
Conclusion & Next Steps
New Brunswick’s RV camping scene is a treasure trove of experiences, from the rugged beauty of Fundy National Park to the family-friendly fun of Jellystone Park™. Whether you’re drawn to oceanfront views, luxury glamping, or off-grid adventures, the province offers a campground to suit your style. Book your stay through official park websites like Parks Canada for national and provincial parks or directly via private campground sites. Share your adventures and photos with #ExploreNB to inspire others to discover this Maritime gem. Start planning your New Brunswick RV trip today and immerse yourself in its natural wonders!
