Pinware River Provincial Park is a gem tucked away in the fishing community of Pinware in Newfoundland and Labrador. Opened in 1974, this 168-acre (68 ha) park may be small, but it certainly does not disappoint. Pinware River Provincial Park and the surrounding area have quite a bit of history, particularly in whaling and fishing. Rich in marine resources, the area first attracted Indigenous people and later European settlers.
Today, Pinware River Provincial Park is a popular destination for fishing. With an abundance of salmon and trout, anglers rarely leave disappointed. Humpback whales, along with several other species of whales and dolphins are often spotted by park visitors from the late spring to early fall. At the park beach, many different types of seabirds may be seen searching for food or resting near the shoreline.
Camping is open at the park from June to September. Opening and closing dates can vary due to snowfall. Many of the campsites can accommodate RVs and travel trailers, including large rigs up to 35 feet. Campsites are reservable online. The park offers dry camping only, but a water tap and a dump station are located near the campground. Additionally, there is a comfort station near the park entrance with showers and laundry facilities.
Pinware River Provincial Park is located off of Route 510, also known as the Trans-Labrador Highway in Pinware, NL. It is about 20 miles (32 km) southwest of another fishing community, Red Bay. Limited supplies may be found in Pinware as well as the nearby town of West Saint Modeste.
If visiting early in the camping season, it is encouraged to check that the park is open. Snow can linger in the area well into June and it may push back the opening date. The roads leading to the park are easy to navigate even for those with big rigs. Some campsites at the park can accommodate rigs up to 35 feet in length.
The park is small in size making it walkable from one end to the other. If preferred, visitors can also park in the day-use area which is adjacent to the beach, picnic area, and activity center.
Pinware River Provincial Park has 22 campsites. Camping is open at the park from June to September and reservations for campsites can be made online in advance of your visit. The opening date can vary due to lingering snow.
Some campsites are located along the beach while there are more heavily wooded and private campsites on the other side of the camping loop. The campsites are spacious and some can accommodate RVs and travel trailers up to 35 feet. Each campsite has vehicle parking, a picnic table, fire ring, and garbage can. The campground has dry campsites only, though potable water is available to park guests at the nearby water tap.
Throughout the camping area you'll find pit toilets. Additionally, the park has a comfort station with flush toilets, showers, and laundry facilities. Park guests may purchase firewood at the park to burn in the fire ring at their campsite. For those with RVs and trailers, there is a dump station located at the park.
Historically, the area was attractive to settlers due to its marine resources. Pinware River remains a popular fishing location to this day. Trout and salmon are abundant, making the odds in the favor of anglers. There are restrictions on trout and salmon fishing at the park. Check fishing regulations and ask park staff about any restrictions before casting your line.
Pinware River Provincial Park is a beautiful spot to enjoy a picnic for gatherings both small and large. There are 25 picnic sites at the park. Drinking water taps and restrooms are located near the picnic area. The parking lot nearby makes it easy to transport and carry coolers and other picnic supplies.
The sandy beach at Pinware River Provincial Park makes for an excellent viewing area to take in the scenery of the park and surrounding region. The Pinware River flows into the Strait of Belle Isle and visitors to the park are able to enjoy the shoreline of both. Lounge on the beach, take a walk along the shoreline, or even brave the cold water on a warm day. There is a parking lot near the beach, though it is also a short walk from the campground.
The nearly one mile (1.2 km) hiking trail at the park is the perfect way to take in the landscape and stretch your legs. This easy trail leads to an overlook that provides views of the town of Pinware as well as the river. The trail can be muddy and it is recommended to wear hiking boots or rubber footwear if planning to head down the trail.
Park guests hoping to see wildlife won’t be disappointed. Whales are often sighted in the Strait of Belle Isle. There are many different types of seabirds that are common to Pinware River which can be viewed near the shoreline. In the evenings, it is common to hear loons calling across the water.
Even in the peak of summer, nights can be cool with the average temperature often dropping into the 40s after dark. What better way to keep warm than by sitting around a campfire sharing stories or playing games? Each campsite has a fire ring. Firewood can be purchased or visitors can bring in their own.
