Five Islands Provincial Park Camping Guide 2025
DRAMATIC BAY OF FUNDY CAMPING:
• Location: Colchester County, Bay of Fundy shore
• Park Size: 607 hectares (1,500 acres)
• Campsites: 90 sites (tents and RVs)
• Season: May 15 - October 15
• Unique Feature: World's highest tides at your campsite
• Distance from Halifax: 120km (1.5 hours)
Campground Facilities
CAMPING AMENITIES:
• Campsite Types: Serviced (30), unserviced (60)
• Electrical: 30-amp service available
• Water Access: Communal taps throughout campground
• Washrooms: Modern facilities with showers
• Laundry: Coin-operated washers and dryers
• Dump Station: RV waste disposal on-site
• Firewood: Available for purchase at office
• Picnic Tables: Each site includes table and fire ring
The Five Islands Legend
MI'KMAQ CREATION STORY:
• Legendary Islands: Moose, Diamond, Long, Egg, Pinnacle Islands
• Cultural Significance: Sacred Mi'kmaq creation story
• Glooscap Legend: Giant threw handfuls of sod creating islands
• Visible Views: Islands clearly seen from camping area
• Photography: Iconic Bay of Fundy island views
• Interpretation: Cultural programs explain indigenous heritage
Extreme Tidal Experiences
WORLD'S HIGHEST TIDES:
• Tidal Range: Up to 16 meters (52 feet)
• Twice Daily: Complete tidal cycle every 12h 25min
• Beach Camping: Watch ocean disappear and return
• Tidal Bore: Incoming tide creates upstream wave
• Safety Rules: Never walk alone on exposed mudflats
• Best Viewing: 2 hours before/after low tide
Hiking Trails
PARK TRAIL SYSTEM:
• Red Head Trail: 3.5km coastal cliff walk
• Pinnacle Rock Trail: 2km to distinctive rock formation
• Cliffs Trail: 5km dramatic Bay of Fundy overlooks
• Economy River Trail: 4km riverside hiking
• Beach Walk: Variable distance depending on tide
• Interpretation Trail: 1.5km guided nature walk
Beach and Water Activities
TIDAL BEACH ACTIVITIES:
• Beach Combing: Search for sea glass and driftwood
• Tide Pool Exploration: Marine life at low tide
• Fossil Hunting: Ancient specimens in beach rocks
• Photography: Dramatic tidal contrasts
• Swimming: Cold Bay of Fundy waters (brave souls only)
• Kayaking: Experienced paddlers only due to extreme tides
Wildlife and Nature
PARK ECOSYSTEM:
• Seabirds: Great blue herons, cormorants, gulls
• Shorebirds: Sandpipers during spring/fall migration
• Marine Life: Seals, occasional whale sightings
• Forest Wildlife: Deer, porcupines, various songbirds
• Rare Plants: Coastal specialties and salt-tolerant species
• Geological Features: Red sandstone cliffs and formations
Visitor Centre and Programs
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES:
• Interpretation Centre: Tidal phenomena exhibits
• Guided Walks: Naturalist-led exploration
• Evening Programs: Campfire talks about local ecology
• Children's Activities: Junior naturalist programs
• Cultural Programs: Mi'kmaq heritage presentations
• Tide Predictions: Current tidal information displayed
Nearby Attractions
AREA EXPLORATION:
• Economy Falls: Scenic waterfall 10 minutes away
• Burntcoat Head Park: Highest recorded tides
• Masstown Market: Local shopping and dining
• Shubenacadie River: Tidal bore rafting
• Parrsboro: Fossil hunting and rock shops
• Advocate Harbour: Historic fishing community
Booking and Reservations
RESERVATION INFORMATION:
• Booking System: Nova Scotia Parks online reservations
• Advance Booking: Recommended, especially summer weekends
• Check-in: 2:00 PM at park office
• Check-out: 12:00 PM (noon)
• Cancellation: 48-hour notice required
• Group Sites: Available for organized groups
• Pet Policy: Pets welcome, must be leashed
What to Bring
CAMPING ESSENTIALS:
• Weather Gear: Maritime climate requires layers
• Warm Clothing: Bay of Fundy can be cool year-round
• Rain Protection: Frequent coastal precipitation
• Tide Tables: Plan activities around tidal schedule
• Camera: Document incredible tidal phenomena
• Binoculars: Wildlife and distant island viewing
Safety and Regulations
PARK RULES AND SAFETY:
• Tidal Safety: Never venture alone onto mudflats
• Fire Regulations: Fires only in designated rings
• Quiet Hours: 10:00 PM - 8:00 AM
• Speed Limit: 15 km/h within park
• Alcohol Policy: Permitted at campsite only
• Emergency Services: Call 911, nearest hospital in Truro
Getting to Five Islands
DIRECTIONS:
• From Halifax: Highway 102 North to Exit 11
• Route: Highway 2 through Masstown to Five Islands
• Total Distance: 120km (75 miles)
• Drive Time: 1.5 hours from Halifax
• GPS Coordinates: 45.3839° N, 63.5819° W
• Road Conditions: Well-maintained provincial highways
Best Times to Visit
SEASONAL CAMPING:
• Summer (June-August): Warmest weather, peak season
• Fall (September-October): Fewer crowds, clear skies
• Spring (May): Cool but beautiful, variable conditions
• Shoulder Seasons: Better rates, fewer reservations needed
• Tidal Extremes: Spring tides during new/full moon
• Weather Watch: Maritime conditions change quickly