Campbellton Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Campbellton with this comprehensive guide, covering everything from transportation options and logistics to local culture, food and drink scene, and must-visit attractions.


Introduction to Campbellton

Campbellton is a small city in the northern part of New Brunswick, Canada, known for its stunning natural beauty, historic sites, and vibrant cultural scene. Located on the shores of the Restigouche River, Campbellton offers visitors a unique blend of French and English heritage, as well as a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and camping.

List of Places to Visit in Campbellton

If you’re planning a trip to Campbellton, make sure to visit the following attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Campbellton Centennial Library and Museum: This museum is dedicated to the local history of Campbellton. The library has a collection of over 30,000 books, including rare editions and local history books.

  • Restigouche Gallery: This art gallery features the works of many local artists and holds exhibitions throughout the year.

  • Campbellton Train Station: The train station, built in 1902, is a National Historic Site. The building has been restored to its original condition and now houses a small museum.

Natural Attractions of Campbellton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sugarloaf Provincial Park: This beautiful park is located just outside of Campbellton. It features hiking trails, a beach, and a ski hill in the winter.

  • Salmon Fishing on the Restigouche: The Restigouche River is known for its salmon fishing. Hire a guide or venture out on your own to catch your dinner.

  • Appalachian Range: Campbellton is located at the base of the Appalachian Mountains and offers stunning views of the range.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Campbellton

There are several great hiking and biking routes in and around Campbellton, including:

  • Appalachian Trail: The Appalachian Trail runs through Campbellton and offers hikers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Sugarloaf Provincial Park: The park features several hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the Restigouche River and the surrounding mountains.

  • Waterfront Trail: The Waterfront Trail is a paved path that runs along the Restigouche River, offering beautiful views of the water and surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Campbellton: Activities and Tours

In Campbellton, there’s no shortage of fun things to do, from outdoor adventures to cultural activities and tours. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Take a Riverboat Tour: Take a scenic cruise down the Restigouche River and soak up the beautiful scenery.

  • Visit Salmon Plaza: This park is home to a life-sized statue of Canada’s longest-serving Prime Minister, William Lyon Mackenzie King.

  • Enjoy Aerial Park Adventure: Enjoy 54 various challenges, such as monkey bridges, zip lines, and more while navigating the aerial course at Sugarloaf Provincial Park.

Week-Long Itinerary for Campbellton

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Campbellton, consider the following itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Campbellton Centennial Library and Museum
2 Take a scenic drive along the Restigouche River
3 Explore Sugarloaf Provincial Park
4 Enjoy a Riverboat Tour
5 Visit the Restigouche Gallery
6 Go Salmon Fishing on the Restigouche
7 Hike the Appalachian Trail

Food and Drink Scene of Campbellton

Campbellton boasts a diverse food and drink scene, ranging from traditional Acadian cuisine to classic Canadian dishes. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poutine: This classic Canadian dish is a must-try. It consists of french fries, cheese curds, and gravy.

  • Lobster Rolls: Lobster rolls are a classic East Coast dish and can be found at many restaurants and food stands in the area.

  • Tourtière: Tourtière is a traditional Acadian meat pie, made with ground pork, beef, and potatoes.

Local Beverages

  • Moosehead Beer: Moosehead is a popular Canadian beer, brewed in nearby Saint John.

  • Traditional Acadian Drinks: Try some traditional Acadian beverages, such as spruce beer or raspberry cordial.

Where to Stay in Campbellton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options in Campbellton, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some popular choices include:

  • Comfort Inn
  • Super 8 by Wyndham Campbellton NB
  • Quality Hotel & Conference Centre
  • Danny’s Inn

What to Buy in Campbellton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re souvenir shopping in Campbellton, consider picking up some of the following items:

  • Maple Syrup: Canadian maple syrup is a must-buy souvenir. Look for local producers to support the community.

  • Lobster figurines and t-shirts: Lobster is a huge part of the local cuisine, so why not bring home a little lobster-inspired souvenir?

  • Acadian traditional hats and accessories: Take home a piece of Acadian culture and tradition with a traditional Acadian hat or sash.

Local Culture and Customs of Campbellton

Campbellton is a welcoming and diverse community, with a unique blend of French and English cultures. It’s important to respect local customs and traditions when visiting the area, such as:

  • Be respectful of the Acadian culture: Acadian culture is an important part of Campbellton’s heritage. Take the time to learn about the traditions and customs and be respectful when visiting cultural sites.

  • Be aware of bilingualism: Many residents of Campbellton speak both French and English. Be aware of this when communicating with locals and try to use a few basic French phrases during your stay.

Best Time to Visit Campbellton

The best time to visit Campbellton is during the summer months, from June to August. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Campbellton

Do:

  • Do try Acadian traditional food
  • Do take a scenic drive along the Restigouche River
  • Do take time to explore Sugarloaf Provincial Park

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in the natural areas
  • Don’t expect restaurants to be open late

Safety and Health

Safety in Campbellton

Campbellton is a safe community, with a low crime rate. However, it’s always important to exercise caution when traveling in any foreign city. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables in a safe place.

Health in Campbellton

Campbellton has several medical facilities, including a hospital and clinics. Canadian healthcare is notoriously expensive, so it’s important to have travel insurance before arriving.

Getting to Campbellton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Campbellton is located in northern New Brunswick, several hours from the nearest major city. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Campbellton

The nearest airport to Campbellton is the Bathurst Airport, located about an hour’s drive away. Other nearby airports include the Greater Moncton International Airport and the Fredericton International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Campbellton

There are several bus stations located within driving distance of Campbellton, including the Caraquet Bus Terminal and the Saint-Quentin Bus Terminal.

Other Options

If you’re driving, take Highway 11 to Campbellton. The city is located just off the highway.

How to Get Around in Campbellton

The best way to get around Campbellton is by car or bike. There is a local bus service, but it has limited routes and schedules. Bikes can be rented at Sugarloaf Provincial Park and other local outfitters.

Where to Go Next from Campbellton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Campbellton is located in a beautiful part of New Brunswick, with lots of nearby attractions and destinations to explore. Some options include:

  • Bathurst, New Brunswick: This nearby city offers beautiful beaches, charming cafes, and historic sites.

  • Matapedia, Quebec: This charming town just over the border in Quebec offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and local cuisine.

Conclusion

Campbellton, New Brunswick is a charming city with lots to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural sites, or local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this hidden gem of northern Canada.

Salmon Sculpture in Downtown Campbellton, City Center building and Sugarloaf Mountain in the background Salmon Sculpture in Downtown Campbellton, City Center building and Sugarloaf Mountain in the background