Kouchibouguac National Park
General Information
The park is open year-round for walking, hiking, biking, camping and winter recreation; the main gate is open mid-May to mid-Oct. The Information Centre, 1 kilometre (.6 mi.) east inside the gate, has a multimedia presentation about the park's diverse habitats, as well as trail maps and information about facilities, nature walks, evening programs and outdoor presentations. It is open daily 8-8, mid-June through Labour Day; 9-5, mid-May to mid-June and day after Labour Day-early Oct. If the entrance gate kiosk is closed, entry passes can be purchased at the center.The St. Louis Kouchibouguacis, Black and Kouchibouguac rivers give the parkland its Mi'kmaq name—Kouchibouguac (KOOSH-e-boo-gwack), or “river of the long tides.” The rivers and other waterways provide canoe routes to the park's interior, and beach and woodlands hiking trails and interpretive nature trails offer access to its many varied habitats. Bicycle, paddleboat, canoe and kayak rentals are available.
Canoeing is the best way to get an up-close view of seals and bird species. Grey seals congregate on off-shore sandbars from May through October; bird-watching is best in spring and fall, when shorebirds and waterfowl stop over during seasonal migrations.
Primitive campsites are accessible by hiking, canoeing or bicycling. If you intend to use off-road campgrounds, you must register at the information center when arriving and again when leaving.
A national park fishing permit is required ($9.80 daily, $34.30 annually). A boardwalk, showers and a canteen are provided at Kellys Beach, also referred to as “the edge of New Brunswick.” The park's loose gravel trails are well maintained and ideal for cycling. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and tobogganing are popular cold-weather activities.
Trail shelters are equipped with wood stoves and picnic tables. Favorite picnic areas include Callanders, La Source and Kellys Beach.
ADMISSION
ADMISSION to the park (mid-June through Labour Day) $7.80; $6.80 (ages 65+); free (ages 0-17); $15.70 (family). Admission Apr. 1 to mid-June and day after Labour Day-Nov. 30 $3.90; $3.15 (ages 65+); free (ages 0-17); $9.80 (family). Campsites can be reserved in advance.
PETS
PETS are permitted only in certain areas. They must be on a leash at all times and may not be left unattended.