From the highest tides in the world to the Maritimes’ highest peak, New Brunswick’s provincial parks have something to offer for everyone.
But did you know that many of New Brunswick’s provincial parks are open well into the fall?
Once the temperatures cool and the crowds (and mosquitoes) are gone, it’s time to enjoy the crisp air and golden glow of nature in autumn. Fall is the best season to hike or bike in forests full of fall colours, breathe in the crisp breeze as you explore a coastal trail, or take a relaxing stroll on the soft sand of a quiet beach. In September, sea and lake waters are still warm from the summer months, so you can still take a dip or go for a paddle.
Fall is the time to get first pick of your favourite campsites, cozy up by the campfire with a warm drink and enjoy the tranquility of the off season. This year, campgrounds at Herring Cove, Parlee, Murray, Anchorage and République Provincial Parks are open until September 18. Sugarloaf welcomes campers until October 2, while Mactaquac and Mount Carleton stay open all the way until October 10. Check out NB Parks' reservation system to see what's available until the end of the season.
Welcome to fall in our provincial parks!
Sugarloaf Provincial Park
The Mountain of Adventure
When it comes to fall colours, Sugarloaf Provincial Park really packs a punch. Hike up Sugarloaf Mountain for spectacular views of the city of Campbellton amidst the changing leaves or ride down the trails of the lift-serviced mountain bike park. After a day in the great outdoors, grab a bite to eat at the slopeside restaurant and rest up for the night at the campground.
Mount Carleton Provincial Park
The Canadian Appalachian Experience
Make Mount Carleton Provincial Park your new fall destination. Hike up the highest peak in the Maritimes or its fellow summits for 360-degree views of stunning fall colours. If you’d rather stay on ground level, bring a canoe and head to one of the park’s pristine lakes. Keep on the lookout for wildlife, enjoy a coffee at the lodge or book a campsite or a heritage cabin for the full experience.
Mactaquac Provincial Park
The Four-Season Playground
Mactaquac Provincial Park, along the Saint John River, has everything you need for the best outdoor adventure—and fantastic fall colours to boot. Hike on the family-friendly trails, play a round of golf at the 18-hole course, or get your adrenaline pumping at the Treego aerial adventure course. You can even camp all the way until Thanksgiving weekend.
New River Beach Provincial Park
The Fundy Tidal Beach
Enjoy the colourful beauty of New River Beach Provincial Park in the fall. As the season winds down, the park is perfect for late summer camping and long walks on the beach. Make sure to explore the park’s seaside trails and take the kids to the playground. Enjoy one of the picnic areas or grab a bite to eat at the New River Beach Takeout, open until the end of September.
Parlee Beach Provincial Park
Canada’s Warmest Saltwater Beach
The Acadian shores are home to Canada’s warmest saltwater beaches. With warm water stretching into early September, plus camping and tasty eats, Parlee Beach Provincial Park is the perfect spot for a fall beach getaway. Stretch summer a little bit longer with all of your favourite beach activities with a sprinkle of fall colours, and many fall activities in the town of Shediac.
Herring Cove Provincial Park
The Nature Lovers’ Retreat
Plan a fall day visit or a longer stay at the seaside campground at Herring Cove Provincial Park, Fundy’s little island paradise. Hike along trails with stunning ocean vistas, put your skills to the test at the 9-hole golf course, and go visit the spectacular property of a former U.S. president at Roosevelt Campobello International Park right down the road.
Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park
Walk on the ocean floor
Experience the world’s highest tides in autumn at Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park. Visit at low tide to walk the ocean floor, or kayak over your footsteps at high tide. Make sure to walk the trails all the way to Demoiselle Beach for a different perspective and a touch of coloured foliage. Check out the tide tables before visiting to ensure you’re going at the right time!