Atlantic · Nova Scotia
Kejimkujik National Park
Mi'kmaw paddling routes through Atlantic dark sky country.
Province
Nova Scotia
Established
1968
Size
404 km²
Coordinates
44.40°, -65.20°
Family friendliness
Hidden gem
Photography
Overview
About Kejimkujik National Park
Inland 'Keji' is one of Canada's oldest paddling parks, with routes long used by the Mi'kmaq. A coastal annex south of Liverpool protects white sand beaches and seal colonies. A Dark Sky Preserve overhead caps it all off.
Why visit
- Dark Sky Preserve — easy access from Halifax
- Mi'kmaw petroglyphs (with a guide)
- Multi-day canoe routes through interior lakes
- Coastal seal beaches at the Seaside annex
Things to do
Plan your days.
Multi-day canoe-camping circuit
kayaking
Jeremys Bay Campground
camping
Seaside Adjunct beach walk
interpretive
Hemlocks and Hardwoods Trail
hiking
Dark sky night with a Mi'kmaw guide
stargazing
Camping
Camping in the park.
- Jeremys Bay — full-service with oTENTiks
- Backcountry: 46 paddle-in sites
Best time to visit
- Spring
- May–June: paddling begins, blackflies appear.
- Summer
- July–August: warm lake swimming.
- Fall
- September–October: dazzling colour.
- Winter
- Open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
- Peak
- July through August.
- Shoulder
- June or September.
Wildlife
What you'll see.
Quiet paddles at dawn for moose and beaver.
Common species
White-tailed deer · Beaver · Common loon
Signature species
Snapping turtle · Barred owl · Black bear
Wildlife safety
Ticks May–October — daily checks recommended.
Nearby communities
Where to base yourself.
- Maitland Bridge
- Annapolis Royal
- Liverpool
Nearby attractions
- Annapolis Royal historic gardens
- Lunenburg
Suggested itineraries
Pick a length.
weekend
Jeremys Bay weekend
Two nights camping with a day paddle and a stargaze.
camping
Big Dam to Pebbleloggitch
Three-night backcountry paddle.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Kejimkujik National Park.
Can I camp in Kejimkujik National Park?+
Yes. Kejimkujik National Park operates Parks Canada campgrounds with a mix of frontcountry sites and, on most loops, oTENTik or backcountry options.
Do I need reservations to visit Kejimkujik National Park?+
Reservations are strongly recommended for summer weekends; a portion of sites may remain first-come, first-served.
Are dogs allowed?+
Yes — dogs are welcome on a leash (max 3 m) throughout the park, but must be supervised at all times and kept off closed trails and beaches with wildlife restrictions.
Is Kejimkujik National Park family friendly?+
Our family score is 9/10. Excellent for families — wide trails, interpretive programs and accessible viewpoints.
When is the best time to visit Kejimkujik National Park?+
July through September. Shoulder seasons reward visitors with fewer crowds and softer light, while winter opens its own set of opportunities (or, in the far north, closes road access entirely).
What wildlife can I see?+
Signature species include snapping turtles, barred owls and white-tailed deer. Always keep at least 30 m from large mammals and 100 m from bears; carry bear spray on backcountry trails.
Can I bring an RV?+
Yes — designated loops accommodate RVs and trailers. Check site dimensions and service availability (electrical/water/sewer) when booking, as not every site offers full hookups.
How many days should I spend here?+
Two to five days.
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