Atlantic · Newfoundland and Labrador
Terra Nova National Park
Iceberg-streaked fjords on Newfoundland's east coast.
Province
Newfoundland and Labrador
Established
1957
Size
400 km²
Coordinates
48.53°, -53.97°
Family friendliness
Hidden gem
Photography
Overview
About Terra Nova National Park
Terra Nova is the easternmost national park in mainland Canada, where boreal forest descends to fingered fjords visited each spring by icebergs and humpback whales.
Why visit
- Iceberg Alley in May–June
- Newman Sound boardwalk and beach
- Family-friendly campgrounds
- Excellent sea kayaking in protected fjords
Things to do
Plan your days.
Newman Sound boat tour
boating
Newman Sound Campground
camping
Coastal Trail to Pissing Mare
hiking
Sea kayak day from Charlottetown
kayaking
Camping
Camping in the park.
- Newman Sound — full-service
- Malady Head — quieter
- Backcountry: South Broad Cove
Best time to visit
- Spring
- May–June: icebergs, blackflies arriving.
- Summer
- July–August: whales offshore, warm enough to camp.
- Fall
- September: berries and quiet trails.
- Winter
- Limited services; ice fishing.
- Peak
- July through mid-August.
- Shoulder
- June or September.
Wildlife
What you'll see.
Coastal lookouts for whales; beaches for capelin runs.
Common species
Moose · Black bear · Bald eagle
Signature species
Humpback whale · Bald eagle · Capelin (rolling on beaches in June)
Wildlife safety
Moose collisions are a real driving risk in Newfoundland — slow down at dawn/dusk.
Nearby communities
Where to base yourself.
- Glovertown
- Eastport
- Bonavista
Nearby attractions
- Bonavista Peninsula
- Discovery UNESCO Geopark
Suggested itineraries
Pick a length.
weekend
Newman Sound weekend
Camp, boat tour, beach day.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Terra Nova National Park.
Can I camp in Terra Nova National Park?+
Yes. Terra Nova 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 Terra Nova 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 Terra Nova 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 Terra Nova National Park?+
Late June through 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 humpback whales, moose, bald eagles and capelin. 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 four days.
Nearby parks
