James MartinA year back, when my thrill-seeking crew rolled into town itching for excitement, I was baffled about what to do with them. Then it struck me: why not go camping in Halifax?
I could introduce them to some killer spots around the city and explore my own backyard like a rugged explorer. Genius, right? We explored more than one spot and let me tell you, the experience was glorious!
Later on, it hit me like a lightning bolt—why not spill the beans on Halifax’s best camping spots and show off what this city’s got? If you’re on the prowl for new camping adventures, look no further than this list!
- 1. Graves Island Provincial Park
- 2. Rissers Beach Provincial Park
- 3. Thomas Raddall Provincial Park
- 4. Hubbards Beach Campground & Cottages
- 5. Dollar Lake Provincial Park
- 6. Shubenacadie Provincial Wildlife Park Campground
- 7. Woodhaven Park Campground
- 8. Crystal Crescent Beach
- 9. Laurie Provincial Park
- 10. McNabs and Lawlor Islands Provincial Park
- 11. Oakfield Provincial Park
- 12. Sackville Lakes Provincial Park
- 13. Vintage Vacations
- 14. Hidden Hilltop
- 15. Wayside Camping Park
1. Graves Island Provincial Park
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Website: https://parks.novascotia.ca/content/graves-island
Address: 230 Graves Island Rd
Phone: +1 902-275-4425
About 40 minutes from Halifax, Graves Island Provincial Park is an easy spot to find. Just hop on Route 103 to Exit 7, then follow Route 3.
And there’s no need to smash the piggy bank—admission is a mere $26 per night! You get to choose from wooded or open campsites, perfect for shade lovers and sun worshipers alike.
Amenities include sparkling clean restrooms, a canteen, and fire pits. Activities? Oh, they’ve got it all: hiking, swimming, picnicking—you name it.
And don’t worry, the island’s connected to the mainland by a causeway. No swimming needed to get there!
| Pro Tip: Reserve your spot early, especially in summer. Hotspots tend to get snapped up quicker than a seagull steals your sandwich! |
2. Rissers Beach Provincial Park
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Website: https://parks.novascotia.ca/content/rissers-beach
Address: 5366 NS-331, Petite Rivière Bridge
Phone: +1 902-688-2034
Rissers Beach Provincial Park is a charming 90-minute jaunt from Halifax along the picturesque South Shore.
The cost is just $26 a night for oceanfront camping—a real bargain! The park offers beachfront campsites ideal for morning ocean gazing.
You can expect modern washrooms, a boardwalk, and picnic areas. Boredom? Not here! You can swim, beach comb, or hike the interpretive trails to your heart’s delight.
Oh, and Rissers Beach is home to rare coastal plain flora. Botanists, grab your magnifying glasses—you might discover a new species!
| Pro Tip: Bring your binoculars! Birdwatching here is top-notch, with a variety of species to spot, especially during migration seasons. |
3. Thomas Raddall Provincial Park
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Website: https://parks.novascotia.ca/park/thomas-raddall
Address: 529 Raddall Park Rd
Phone: +1 902-683-2664
Thomas Raddall Provincial Park sits two hours from Halifax, near Liverpool, and it’s worth every single mile. The fees are a mere $26 per night—consider it a great bargain for peace and quiet!
Secluded campsites nestle among the trees, making it a genuine forest escape. Restrooms, fire pits, and picnic tables come as part of the deal.
At this park, hiking, bird watching, and soaking up the coastal views make up the agenda. It’s ideal for anyone who likes their nature served with a generous helping of solitude!
| Pro Tip: Check out the nearby Kejimkujik Seaside Adjunct for a bonus adventure. It’s just a short drive away and offers stunning coastal views and more hiking opportunities. |
4. Hubbards Beach Campground & Cottages
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Website: http://www.hubbardsbeach.com/
Address: 226 Shore Club Rd RR 2
Phone: +1 902-857-9460
Just 45 minutes from Halifax, this South Shore spot is a breeze to reach via Highway 103. Admission is around $30 per night, which is pocket change for ocean views.
The campground offers tent sites, RV spots, and charming cottages, so there’s a roof (or not) for everyone. Amenities include clean showers, a canteen, and Wi-Fi—because even campers need to Instagram, right?
If you’re looking for fun activities, swimming, beachcombing, and kayaking are just a few.
Hubbards Beach is a famous filming location, having starred in a few TV shows. Who knows, you just might end up as an extra when you camp here!
| Pro Tip: Swing by the Hubbards Farmers’ Market on Saturdays. Fresh local produce and handmade goodies make for a picture-perfect picnic. |
5. Dollar Lake Provincial Park
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Website: http://parks.novascotia.ca/content/dollar-lake
Address: 5265 Old Guysborough Rd
Phone: +1 888-544-3434
Dollar Lake gets its name from the lake’s perfectly round shape, resembling a coin. But then again, the name was a dead giveaway, wasn’t it?
A mere 30-minute drive from Halifax, this park is your answer to a quick nature fix. Entry fees for the Dollar Lake Provincial Park hover around $25 per night, so there’s no need to bring out the big bucks.
The park offers forested campsites, ideal for those who prefer a leafy canopy. You’ll find restrooms, a picnic area, and a boat launch at this spot.
Activities are plentiful: swimming, canoeing, and hiking the scenic trails. A great spot for those who love water activities without the ocean salt.
| Pro Tip: Pack your fishing gear. The lake is stocked with trout, making it a favorite spot for anglers. |
6. Shubenacadie Provincial Wildlife Park Campground
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Website: http://www.wildnaturecampground.com/
Address: 20961 NS-2
Phone: +1 902-758-1631
Shubenacadie Provincial Wildlife Park Campground hosts over 90 species of animals. It’s like a zoo but without the big-city nonsense.
It’s the solution for families who want to mix camping with a wildlife safari!
Just 45 minutes from Halifax, this place is a dream for wildlife enthusiasts. Entry costs around $10, plus $25 per night for camping.
The accommodations? You get basic tent sites—just right for the no-frills camper.
And, you can expect picnic tables, restrooms, and easy access to the wildlife park. When you feel like learning new things, you can just enjoy animal watching, hiking, and their educational programs!
| Pro Tip: Visit during feeding times for an up-close look at the animals. It’s both educational and wildly entertaining. |
7. Woodhaven Park Campground
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Website: https://www.woodhavenrvpark.com/
Address: 1757 Hammonds Plains Rd
Phone: +1 902-835-2271
Just 20 minutes from Halifax near Windsor Junction, Woodhaven Park Campground is practically in the city’s backyard. Costs hover around $30 per night, giving you more bang for your buck!
You’ll find a variety of accommodations here: tent sites, RV hookups, and cozy cabins. There’s a swimming pool, laundry facilities, and a playground to keep everyone entertained.
Woodhaven Park’s friendly resident goats are a hit with both kids and adults. It’s perfect for those wanting a quick escape without straying too far from civilization.
Activities are surprisingly plentiful: swimming, hiking, and even mini-golf. Who knew you could still tee off like a pro while camping in the wild?
| Pro Tip: Don’t miss the weekend pancake breakfast. It’s a local tradition that’s both delicious and a great way to meet fellow campers. |
8. Crystal Crescent Beach
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Website: https://parks.novascotia.ca/content/crystal-crescent-beach
Address: 220 Sambro Creek Rd
Phone: +1 888-544-3434
Right at the mouth of Halifax Harbour, Crystal Crescent Beach isn’t just a pretty face—it’s a triple threat of white-sand goodness. Boardwalks guide you to the first two beaches, ensuring a leisurely amble for even the laziest beach bum!
And there’s no need to break the bank here; entry’s on the house, making it a top pick for a wallet-friendly day in the sun.
Picnic tables and accessible facilities at Lewis Lake sweeten the deal, while activities like swimming, sunbathing, and a hike to Pennant Point keep boredom at bay.
| Pro Tip: Bring your binoculars and hike to Pennant Point for some of the best birdwatching in the area. |
9. Laurie Provincial Park
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Website: https://parks.novascotia.ca/content/laurie
Address: 4949 NS-2
Phone: +1 888-544-3434
Laurie Provincial Park offers a peaceful lakeside setting that’s just begging for various outdoor activities. A small admission fee of about $25 per night applies for camping, but day use is free.
The park provides tent sites for camping, a boat launch, and picnic areas. They’ve even thought of everything, with restrooms and facilities accessible to all.
For the less leisurely inclined, there’s canoeing, water skiing, fishing, and a good old-fashioned swim. It’s a well-known retreat for those seeking peace and quiet without venturing too far from the city’s hustle and bustle!
| Pro Tip: Take a canoe out on the lake at sunrise for a magical and tranquil start to your day. |
10. McNabs and Lawlor Islands Provincial Park
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Website: http://mcnabsisland.ca/
Address: McNabs Island
Phone: +1 902-662-3030
Located at the mouth of Halifax Harbour, McNabs and Lawlor Islands offer a step back in time and nature. Forget about paying at the door—there’s no admission fee here, folks!
But do plan ahead for how you’re getting there; these islands aren’t coming to you. Once you’re there, strap on those hiking boots, grab those binoculars, and get ready to dive into some serious history hunting.
From ancient fort remains to bird-watching bonanzas, these islands have it all. History buffs and nature nerds, rejoice—you’ve found your utopia!
| Pro Tip: Pack a picnic and spend the day exploring the historical sites and enjoying the serene natural surroundings. |
11. Oakfield Provincial Park
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Website: http://parks.novascotia.ca/content/oakfield
Address: 366 Oakfield Park Rd
Phone: +1 902-861-2560
Oakfield Provincial Park, located on Grand Lake, is a popular day-use spot near Halifax. No admission fee here, just pure enjoyment.
What’s in the bag? A cozy beach, a boat launch for those revved-up vessels, picnic spots galore, those not-so-fancy but functional vault toilets, and trails that are just begging for a wander.
Here, you can splish-splash in the lake, zoom around in boats, or simply feast away at those picnics. Locals dig it for its Instagram-worthy views—go ahead and snap away!
| Pro Tip: Bring your kayak for a peaceful paddle around Grand Lake’s scenic shoreline. |
12. Sackville Lakes Provincial Park
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Website: http://www.novascotia.com/see-do/outdoor-activities/sackville-lakes-provincial-park/6057
Address: 440 First Lake Dr
Phone: +1 888-773-8888
Sackville Lakes Provincial Park serves up nature walks and hikes galore, all for the grand price of zero dollars. It’s just the best spot for those “let’s just go” moments!
You’ll find lush forests and tranquil lakes here, begging for some canoeing or kayaking action. The trails are top-notch, thanks to a dedicated community crew, providing the ultimate chill-out from city chaos.
| Pro Tip: Visit in the early morning for a peaceful hike and the best chance to spot wildlife. |
13. Vintage Vacations
Website: https://www.vintagevacations.ca/
Address: 30 John Brenton Dr, Dartmouth Nova Scotia
Phone: TEL: +1 (902) 435-8328 / E-MAIL: [email protected]
We recently spent time with Vintage Vacations, and the experience was both unique and enjoyable. From the start, communication was clear and friendly. Booking was simple, directions were easy to follow, and the staff made sure we had all the information we needed before we arrived. That level of organization helped us feel prepared and excited for our trip.
The second thing we appreciated was the setup and quality of the accommodations. The vintage camping style was charming and full of character, yet everything was clean, comfortable, and well maintained. It struck a perfect balance between rustic charm and practical comfort, giving us the outdoor experience we were looking for without sacrificing convenience.
Finally, we loved the personal touches and care that went into the experience. The team clearly takes pride in creating a welcoming atmosphere. Small details made a big difference, from thoughtful amenities to helpful tips about enjoying the area. We never felt like just guests—we felt genuinely cared for.
Overall, our time with Vintage Vacations was excellent. With smooth communication, unique and comfortable accommodations, and a warm, personal approach, they created a camping experience that felt both special and stress-free. We would gladly recommend it to anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors in a way that blends charm, comfort, and memorable character.
| Pro Tip: Visit in the early morning for a peaceful hike and the best chance to spot wildlife. |
14. Hidden Hilltop
Website: https://hiddenhilltopcampground.com/
Address: Hidden Hilltop Family Campground 2600 Highway 4, Glenholme, Nova Scotia
Phone: 902-662-3391 / 1-866-662-3391
We recently spent a weekend at Hidden Hilltop Family Campground, and we came away feeling refreshed, delighted, and impressed by how thoughtfully it was run. Nestled in central Nova Scotia, its location feels just right—it’s peaceful and tucked away, yet only a short drive from Truro, making it accessible without feeling too touristy.
Right from the moment we arrived, we appreciated how well maintained the grounds were. The mix of serviced RV sites (20-amp, 30-amp) and more rustic tent spots gives flexibility, depending on how “connected to nature” you want to be. The campsite facilities are clean and reliable: there’s laundry, showers, a store for basic supplies (even firewood and propane), and well-kept restrooms.
What really set Hidden Hilltop apart for us were the activities. There was something going on almost every day: wagon rides, soap slides, a bouncy pillow, mini golf, and even a petting zoo. The 30 × 60 ft heated pool with its slide was a hit, especially when the sun beamed just right, and the kids in our group couldn’t wait to dive in every afternoon. In the evenings, the campground would come alive with themed weekends, live music, dances, and other family-friendly entertainment.
We also liked their policies: while there is an electronic gate (which makes the place feel more secure), it’s pretty fair. Cancellation is reasonable if you notify ahead, though they do have a one-day rate penalty for last-minute changes.
Overall, we felt Hidden Hilltop struck a strong balance between being family-oriented and offering genuine “get-away-from-it-all” camping. It’s not ultra-luxury glamping, but that’s part of its charm: it feels warm, welcoming, lively when you want activity, and calm when you just want to sit by your tent or RV and breathe. We’d definitely go back.
| Pro Tip: Check the event calendar before booking. Themed weekends can be a blast and offer unique experiences for campers of all ages. |
15. Wayside Camping Park
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Website: http://www.waysidecampground.com/
Address: 10295 Peggys Cove Rd
Phone: +1 902-823-2547
Wayside Camping Park is about a 30-minute drive from Halifax, located in Glen Margaret. The park charges around $35 a night.
Whether you’re pitching a tent, plugging in an RV, or cozying up in a cabin, they’ve got you covered.
Need a breather? They’ve got restrooms, laundry, a camp store, and a playground for the rugrats.
Feeling adventurous? Just dive into hiking, swimming, fishing, or boating.
Plus, they spice things up with themed weekends and events because, let’s face it, who doesn’t love a bit of extra fun?
| Pro Tip: Check the event calendar before booking. Themed weekends can be a blast and offer unique experiences for campers of all ages. |
