New Brunswick Parks: Kouchibouguac National Park

A few weeks ago, I underwent my first attempt at solo camping at Kouchibouguac National Park. Only 30 minutes away from my hometown of Miramichi, I thought it was a great place to test my aptitude for solo camping. As a beginner solo camper, I have decided that, for now, I want to stick to front-country camping because it provides me with the luxuries that I need to feel safe and comfortable. These luxuries include washrooms, showers, kitchen shelters, and fire pits. Therefore, the majority of my Canadian provincial and national park posts will focus on this type of camping.

While I had every intention of hiking many trails within the park, the rain that week had flooded most of the ones of interest and therefore, I spent more time at the campsite than expected. However, I did spend ample time walking across Kelly’s Beach Boardwalk in search of a variety of birds. The Common Terns loved to fly overhead and many of them landed on the boardwalk ready for me to take their portraits. I also spent an afternoon at Kelly’s Beach, which surprisingly wasn’t overcrowded and even had a couple of benches for those who didn't want to venture into the sand.

When I wasn’t walking along the boardwalk or lounging at the beach, I spent the remainder of my time driving aimlessly around in search of wildlife and relaxing at the Kouchibouguac South Campground. My campsite was in a great location - not too far from the washrooms, showers, and kitchen shelter - and I had a fire pit on site. I was able to purchase both ice for my cooler and firewood for my fire pit at the campground visitor centre, which made cooking fresh meals easy. While my visit wasn’t smooth (e.g., when it took me 45 minutes to set up my tent or when I had to pee in a plastic bag), I truly enjoyed my two-night stay in the park. I will definitely visit again when the weather is sunny so I can benefit from the many beautiful trails that Kouchibouguac National Park has to offer.

For the best chance at viewing wildlife, hike the Salt Marsh Trail, Kelly’s Beach Boardwalk, Bog Trail, and Osprey Trail.

If you love beautiful landscapes, walk across Kelly’s Beach Boardwalk at sunrise or sunset, climb the spiral staircase while on the Bog Trail, or hike along the Kouchibouguac River for panoramic views.

For more information on parking, amenities and trails, you can view the Kouchibouguac National Park Map here.

Things to know before you go:

Daily Cost (Peak Season): Adult: $8.50; Senior: $7.25; Youth: Free; and Family/Group: $16.75
Daily Cost (Shoulder Season): Adult: $4.25; Senior: $3.50; Youth: Free; and Family/Group: $8.50
Washrooms: Available
Equipment Rentals: Available
Front-Country Camping: Available ($29.25 + tax per night)
Backcountry Camping: Available
Roofed Accommodations: Available
Swimming: Available
Pets: Allowed (on-leash only in designated areas)