The Canadian Explorer
The Canadian ExplorerDiscover Canada · Explore Beyond
Prince Edward Island National Park

Atlantic · Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island National Park

Red cliffs, white beaches, and Anne of Green Gables.

Province

Prince Edward Island

Established

1937

Size

27 km²

Coordinates

46.43°, -63.08°

10/10

Family friendliness

4/10

Hidden gem

9/10

Photography

Overview

About Prince Edward Island National Park

A coastal ribbon of pink sandstone cliffs, dune-backed beaches and the literary heritage of Green Gables. The park stretches across three units along the island's north shore.

Why visit

  • Cavendish, Brackley and Greenwich beaches
  • Green Gables Heritage Place
  • Red sand cliffs and shifting dunes
  • Excellent cycling on the Confederation Trail nearby

Things to do

Plan your days.

Cavendish Campground

camping

Greenwich dune boardwalk

interpretive

Beach walks at low tide

interpretive

Green Gables tour

interpretive

Camping

Camping in the park.

FrontcountryBackcountryRV friendlyRecommended
  • Cavendish — busiest, near Green Gables
  • Stanhope — quieter, family-friendly
  • Robinsons Island (group sites)

Best time to visit

Spring
May–June: cool wind, calm beaches.
Summer
July–August: warmest swimming, lobster season.
Fall
September–October: golden light, quieter.
Winter
Some access for cross-country skiing.
Peak
Mid-July through August.
Shoulder
June or September.

Wildlife

What you'll see.

Plovers on protected sections of beach; foxes near Cavendish.

Common species

Red fox · Harbour seal · Great blue heron

Signature species

Piping plover · Harbour seal · Snowy owl (winter)

Wildlife safety

Strong rip currents — swim only at supervised beaches.

Nearby communities

Where to base yourself.

Nearby attractions

  • Confederation Trail
  • Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place

Suggested itineraries

Pick a length.

family

Family PEI week

Cavendish base, daily beach + one heritage day.

road trip

Island loop

Drive the coastal scenic loops over five days.

Frequently asked

Common questions about Prince Edward Island National Park.

Can I camp in Prince Edward Island National Park?+

Yes. Prince Edward Island 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 Prince Edward Island 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 Prince Edward Island 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 Prince Edward Island National Park?+

July and 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, red foxes, great blue herons and harbour seals. 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 seven days.

Verify current conditions on Parks Canada