Prince Edward Island may be the smallest province in Canada, but don’t let that intimidate you. Just because it’s the smallest, doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot to do. Not only is there a lot to do, but even though it’s a small province, they managed to fit a ton of provincial parks in! If you’ve never been to PEI or camped in one of their provincial parks, now is definitely the time.
Imagine this: there is a lighthouse to your right, a beach right in front of you, your RV camper right behind you, and a million things you and your friends and family can cross off your bucket list.
Not only will you love the camping, but you’ll be able to have some of the best seafood in the world. Since PEI is so small, you could even make stops at multiple provincial parks during your trip. Whether you’ve never been to the East Coast or you’re looking for something new to try, PEI is where you belong.
Cabot Beach Provincial Park
Best time to visit: If you want to be able to dip your toes in the warm beaches, visiting Cabot Beach Provincial Park in the summertime is definitely best. The park is open from June 5th to September 20th, and it has a ton of activities on site. Not to mention, it’s very close to the Green Gables Shore touring region, which of course, is where PEI celebrates Anne of Green Gables.
RV hookups available: No, but RVs are welcome.
Things you must do at Cabot Beach Provincial Park: Since it’s only about a 30 minute drive to the Green Gables Shore, you must visit this iconic spot. If you’re looking for authentic seafood, right down the road is a spot called Ship to Shore where you’ll taste amazing lobster, oysters, clam chowder, and more! If you and your family are into biking, there is a long bike trail (62 km to be exact) that will take you through the best views.
Tips: Reservations for Cabot Beach Provincial Park start on April 1st. However, if you’re planning on staying for longer than 30 days, make sure to contact the park directly.
How to book: Online here.
Jacques Cartier Provincial Park
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Jacques Cartier Provincial Park is absolutely in the summertime. It’s open from from June 7th to September 7th, but that’s not the only reason you should visit in the summer. This park has a massive beach, with even bigger waves crashing on the shore. You don’t have to travel to a tropical place to view these kinds of waves.
RV hookups available: No, But RVs are welcome.
Things you must do at Jacques Cartier Provincial Park: The best part about this park is you can say at the edge of the beach, and right as you wake up, you can walk over with your morning coffee. Every July, there is a celebration to commemorate when Jacques Cartier first visited Canada in 1534. If the weather isn’t as you expected, you can drive over to North Cape where they have a restaurant called Wind & Reef Seafood Restaurant as well as a marine aquarium!
Tips: Reservations for Jacques Cartier Provincial Park start on April 1st. This is a very popular campsite, so book ASAP.
How to book: Online here.
Cedar Dunes Provincial Park
Best time to visit: Cedar Dunes Provincial Park is a beautiful park in PEI that is famous for its beaches, as well as the unique lighthouse that you can’t miss. The park is open from early June to mid-September, so you’ll be able to get everything out of this park that you want.
RV hookups available: No, but RVs are welcome.
Things you must do at Cedar Dunes Provincial Park: Of course, you’ll want to visit the stunning beaches and everything around your campsite. However, there is a lighthouse at Cedar Dunes Provincial Park that is actually the only lighthouse in Canada connected to an inn. The West Point Lighthouse has a museum as well that you can tour! If you’re looking for great seafood, The Catch Kitchen + Bar is right on the beach and will satisfy your craving.
Tips: Reservations for Cedar Dunes Provincial Park starts on April 1st.
How to book: Online here.
Panmure Island Provincial Park
Best time to visit: Out of all the beaches in PEI, Panmure Island Provincial Park has one of the provinces best white sand beaches. The park is open from June 9th to September 17th, and I would suggest booking a long trip as you may never want to leave. There are so many different aspects to this park that you’ll immediately fall in love.
RV hookups available: Yes!
Things you must do at Panmure Island Provincial Park: Book a couple of days to just lie on the beach and take in the sun. But after you’re bored of doing that, you should make your way to the sand dunes that gives an amazing view of the park and water. If you’re hungry and want some delicious food, check out Sandbar & Grill, which is just a walk away from your campsite.
Tips: Reservations for Panmure Island Provincial Park starts on April 1st.
How to book: Online here.
Red Point Provincial Park
Best time to visit: If you’re looking for a family friendly campground, then you’ll love Red Point Provincial Park. It’s open from June 1st to late September, which will allow you to enjoy the beautiful beach as well as the lifeguards on duty.
RV hookups available: Yes!
Things you must do at Red Point Provincial Park: You’ll definitely want to spend time at the beach, as your friends and family will absolutely love it there. However, about 10 minutes away from the park is Souris, which is a seaside town. There are a few places in town where you can get authentic seafood, souvenir shops, and you can even ride the ferry!
Tips: Reservations for Red Point Provincial Park starts on April 1st.
How to book: Online here.
