Atlantic · New Brunswick
Kouchibouguac National Park
Warm-water lagoons and 25 kilometres of barrier dunes.
Province
New Brunswick
Established
1969
Size
239 km²
Coordinates
46.80°, -64.97°
Family friendliness
Hidden gem
Photography
Overview
About Kouchibouguac National Park
On the Acadian coast of New Brunswick, Kouchibouguac protects sandy lagoons, salt marshes, and the largest tern colony in North America. Summer water temperatures here are among the warmest north of Virginia.
Why visit
- Some of the warmest saltwater swimming in Canada
- Kellys Beach barrier dunes
- Bog boardwalks and bird-rich salt marshes
- Excellent flat cycling on park roads
Things to do
Plan your days.
Kellys Beach boardwalk and swim
interpretive
South Kouchibouguac Campground
camping
Bog Trail boardwalk
interpretive
Park-wide cycling loop
scenic drive
Camping
Camping in the park.
- South Kouchibouguac — full-service with oTENTiks
- Côte-à-Fabien — quieter
- Backcountry: Sipu Camp Trail
Best time to visit
- Spring
- May–June: cool water, fewer crowds.
- Summer
- July–August: warmest lagoon swimming.
- Fall
- September–October: birding peak.
- Winter
- Cross-country skiing and fat biking on park roads.
- Peak
- July through mid-August.
- Shoulder
- June or September.
Wildlife
What you'll see.
Tern Island from the boardwalk; seals lounging on sand bars.
Common species
Harbour seal · Common tern · Piping plover (endangered)
Signature species
Piping plover · Common tern colony · Gray seal
Wildlife safety
Jellyfish and sun exposure — bring shade.
Nearby communities
Where to base yourself.
- Saint-Louis-de-Kent
- Richibucto
- Bouctouche
Nearby attractions
- Le Pays de la Sagouine
- Bouctouche Dune
Suggested itineraries
Pick a length.
family
Family beach week
Five nights, daily swims, evening campfires.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Kouchibouguac National Park.
Can I camp in Kouchibouguac National Park?+
Yes. Kouchibouguac 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 Kouchibouguac 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 Kouchibouguac National Park family friendly?+
Our family score is 10/10. Excellent for families — wide trails, interpretive programs and accessible viewpoints.
When is the best time to visit Kouchibouguac National Park?+
July through mid-August. 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 piping plovers, terns, gray seals and the occasional moose. 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?+
Three to five days.
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