Fishing Cove Backcountry Campground

Cape Breton Highlands National Park

8 sites; 8 reservable

Unserviced without fireplace: 8 sites

Operating season: May 16 to October 26, 2025

There is only one designated “wilderness” camping area in the park: Fishing Cove. To camp anywhere else in the backcountry, you must check with park wardens; they are the only staff authorized to issue permits for camping in the park outside of a designated area.

The Fishing Cove backcountry camping area is a 6 km (one way; 3.7 mi) hike down to the rugged coastline cradled at the base of MacKenzie Mountain. A grassy hillside, a cobblestone beach and a river compliment this camping spot. Campers are required to register for a backcountry permit at either the Chéticamp or Ingonish Visitor Centres, bring a camp stove (no open fires allowed), pack out all garbage (no garbage receptacles) and bring their own drinking water. Potable water is not available on site.