If you're hankering to hit the open road with your RV in tow, consider a visit to Mactaquac Provincial Park. It's an amazing place for your next outdoor adventure.
Mactaquac Provincial Park was founded in the 1960's with the building of the Mactaquac Dam. This beloved property rests along the banks of the Saint John River, a body of water known for its tranquil nature and picturesque setting. This recreational area sits in the midst of dense woods and consists of 525 hectares (or 1300 acres), giving families ample room to explore.
The property is home to two marinas, the Mactaquac Power Boat Marina and the York Centennial Sailboat Marina, and also houses two freshwater beaches. Though swimming and sunbathing are two of the park's most popular activities, windsurfing, canoeing, and fishing are also popular summertime attractions.
Located just 27 km (17 miles) from the city of Fredericton., Mactaquac Provincial Park offers families the opportunity to enjoy rural Maritime living coupled with proximity to one of New Brunswick's premier cities. Families stopping by Fredericton for the day can enjoy everything from fine dining to farmers' markets, cultural events, shopping, and more.
Mactaquac Provincial Park also houses the popular TreeGo Mactaquac Aerial Adventure, a challenging rope skills and ziplining course. Situated near to the park is the Mactaquac Golf Course which offers 18 hole championship golfing year round.
For an idyllic vacation in a beautiful rural Canadian paradise, plan to make your next RV stay at Mactaquac Provincial Park. It's a fantastic place for a holiday.
The trip from Fredericton, NB to Mactaquac Provincial Park covers 27 km (17 miles) of ground. To follow this route, begin on NB-102 N and continue until you reach Mactaquac Rd in French Village. Follow this road until you see the signs for Route 105 N/NB-105 N which will take you directly to your destination. Your journey travels along two lane roads that are kept in good condition. Occasionally, wildlife crosses the highway, so be sure to stay alert for their presence. Construction occurs periodically in the summer months.
Travelling from Edmundston, NB to the park encompasses 260 km (162 miles) in total. The journey begins on Trans-Canada Hwy/NB-2 E. Continue on this highway until you reach Prince William Rd/NB-635 E in Prince William. Follow exit 253 to NB-102 S. Continue along the path to Route 105 N/NB-105 N until you reach the park. This route is comprised of mostly two lane highways kept in good condition. Construction occurs occasionally, but in general, traffic moves along well.
Parking is available in the lot found at the entrance to Mactaquac Provincial Park.
Mactaquac Campground offers RV and tent camping by reservation between mid-May and September each year. There are 401 campsites; many of which offer both power and water hookups. Families may choose from campsites that are out in the open or surrounded by woods. Generator use is allowed, and dogs may join their owners at their campsite so long as they remain leashed.
When calling to make a reservation, it is best to share your trailer's length with the office staff to ensure a space of adequate size is available for trailers exceeding 32 feet.
There are many different amenities at this campground including laundry facilities, bathrooms with showers, firewood for sale, playgrounds, firepits, and picnic areas. Among the most popular activities are windsurfing, canoeing, sunbathing, swimming, hiking, and fishing.
Swimming is one of Mactaquac Provincial Park's most popular activities in the summer. With two freshwater beaches to choose from, you will be spoiled for choice for places to take a dip. The swimming is unsupervised at this park, so do be careful to avoid entering the water when the weather conditions are poor, or the current is too high.
Following your swimming adventure, you can meander along the rock and sand-lined coast in search of seaside treasures or relax along the shore to work on your suntan.
Be sure to bring along some drinking water to remain hydrated. Your dog is welcome to join you at both of these beaches but must remain leashed at all times.
The park's zipline is a much-beloved destination for families looking to enjoy a unique outdoor activity. This aerial adventure is a series of rope skills and zip lining built on a challenging course. The course requires both balancing and climbing skills and requires good upper body strength to complete. There is a course specifically for children to enjoy.
Note that this is a fee-based activity. The staff suggest the following dress code for each guest's comfort and safety: running shoes, comfortable clothing which covers both the waist and upper portions of the legs, long hair kept tied back, and no jewellery, watches, or sunglasses. In addition to this, drinking water, sun protection, and bug repellent are highly recommended.
Golf aficionados won't want to miss out on a trip to Mactaquac Golf Course. This 18 hole championship golf course is open year round for families to enjoy. The property is home to a popular restaurant that is well-renowned for its casual fine dining. The food is both delicious and high quality and is crafted from local, in season ingredients.
Stop by the pro shop to pick up a few tips on how to improve your game or buy a souvenir or two to take home as a memento of your New Brunswick vacation.
Be sure to bring along sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
Mactaquac Provincial Park is located in a rural area of the province of New Brunswick. As such, no public transportation is available to this park and camping facility.
Mactaquac Provincial Park is home to six hiking trails of varying lengths and intensities. One of the most popular trails is the Beaver Pond Trail which runs through an area known as a beaver habitat.
The terrain on the hiking trails is quite varied and moves through areas of lush forest and flatlands. Along your route, you will discover many different varieties of rich vegetation as well as wildflowers in season.
Wear appropriate footwear and bring along drinking water to keep your thirst at bay. Your dog may join you on your hiking adventure so long as he remains leashed.
The scenic Saint John River is the perfect place to do some fishing. You can launch your boat from one of the marinas or fish right from the banks of the beach; either way you're in for an afternoon of fun.
The water remains calm and clear, making it ideal for taking your canoe on your fishing expedition. Be sure to bring along a packed lunch and some drinking water to keep hunger and thirst at bay.
With firepits available at the campsites, you can fillet your haul and cook up a feast over an open fire.
Mactaquac Provincial Park is an incredibly scenic spot, making it a natural haven for families who fancy themselves amateur photographers. From the lush green forest to the stunning views from the banks of the Saint John River and more, you will not want for subject material to fix your lens on.
Along your journey through the woods, you will encounter unique plant and animal life and even wildflowers in season. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing and carry drinking water with you to remain well-hydrated.
