News release

Opening Dates for Provincial Parks

12 May 2026 | 12:06 PM

Graphic design with photo of people in canoes that says parks' opening weekend is Friday, May 15

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Provincial parks attract more than a million visitors annually, with the number of campers increasing each year.

NOTE: A list of opening dates for camping parks across the province follows this release.

Nova Scotia’s provincial parks start opening for the season this Victoria Day weekend. Most day-use and camping parks open on Friday, May 15, and the rest will open by June 5.

“Our provincial parks allow Nova Scotians and visitors from around the world to get outside and enjoy the beautiful nature that defines our province,” said Kim Masland, Minister of Natural Resources. “We’re making a number of improvements to modernize amenities and accessibility this year, so even more people will be able to enjoy the amazing natural spaces Nova Scotia has to offer.”

Provincial parks attract more than a million visitors annually, with the number of campers increasing each year.

The 2026-27 provincial budget includes $9.5 million for improving campsites, updating washrooms and upgrading roads, parking lots and trails. Visitors will see improved amenities and services at parks including Blomidon, Dollar Lake and Martinque Beach.

Park visitors are reminded to be vigilant about wildfire prevention. Campfires and smoking are not allowed in day-use parks or at beaches at any time, and people at provincial camping parks and other campgrounds must follow daily provincial burn restrictions. That means campfires are only permitted after 2 p.m. and before 8 a.m. when the Province’s BurnSafe map is green, or between 7 p.m. and 8 a.m. when the map is yellow – the same as campfires in people’s backyards. If the map is red, campfires are not allowed. A $25,000 fine applies to violations of the daily burn restrictions.

Devices such as gas stoves and charcoal briquette barbeques can be used any time, following manufacturers’ instructions.

Quick Facts:

in 2025, there were 103,690 overnight stays at provincial camping parks, a nine per cent increase over 2024 and a new record – the first time there have been more than 100,000
visitation was also up at the 17 provincial beaches with lifeguards
last year, 56 per cent of campers were from Nova Scotia, 32 per cent from other parts of Canada and 12 per cent were international visitors
alcohol and cannabis are not permitted at day-use parks
people should take precautions to prevent tick exposure when they are outdoors, such as tucking in shirts and pulling socks over pant legs; for early protection against Lyme disease, people can visit their local pharmacist to have their tick bite assessed and determine if a preventive antibiotic is appropriate