Things To Do
in Campbellton
Campbellton is a bilingual riverside town in northern New Brunswick perched along the Restigouche River and facing Quebec’s Pointe-à-la-Croix across the water. It blends maritime heritage with Acadian and Francophone influences, offering a friendly, small-town atmosphere with scenic waterfront views. The town serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures in Restigouche County, from fishing and hiking to seasonal markets and cultural events.
With a compact downtown, pleasant bridges, and coastal charm, Campbellton invites relaxed exploration and day trips into surrounding forests and lakes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Campbellton and check into your cozy accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along the Restigouche River, enjoying the refreshing morning air and scenic views. Visit local cafes for a taste of the region's renowned breakfast dishes.
Explore the Campbellton Heritage Museum to uncover the rich history of the area. Afterward, grab lunch at a local eatery, sampling fresh seafood from the Atlantic Ocean. Spend the rest of the afternoon hitching a ride on the scenic Acadian Coastal Drive.
Unwind with dinner at a waterfront restaurant, where you can savor local cuisine while watching the sunset. Join a local fishing tour for an opportunity to catch some fish and learn about the area's fishing culture. Conclude the night with a walk on the boardwalk, soaking in the evening ambiance.
Start your day with a hike in Sugarloaf Provincial Park, surrounded by stunning landscapes and wildlife. Enjoy the tranquility of nature as you breathe in the fresh air and take in the panoramic views from the summit. Pack a light breakfast to enjoy amidst the natural beauty.
Return to town for lunch at a local pizzeria, then prepare for some outdoor adventure with kayaking or canoeing on the Restigouche River. Experience the thrill of the waterways while soaking in the picturesque scenery and observing local wildlife. Afterward, spend some time fishing or relaxing by the riverbank.
For dinner, select a cozy bistro that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine. You might also participate in a local cultural event, such as a music festival or farmers' market, depending on the season. Finish your day enjoying the sounds of the river and the vibrant local atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🥖Bakery item | $2-4 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per liter) | $1.50-2.00 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $12-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful riverfront setting with easy access to outdoor activities
- Friendly, bilingual community and approachable dining options
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Weather can be unpredictable; plan for seasonal closures and longer travel times for some destinations
Places to Visit in Campbellton
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river scenes with bridges, boats, and golden-hour reflections; best at sunrise or sunset.
Cross-river viewpoints for dramatic river photographs and cross-border scenery.
Characterful streets, colorful storefronts, and activity along the waterfront with seasonal markets.
Nearby wooded areas and small cascades offer tranquil nature shots away from the town center.
Food in Campbellton
Campbellton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Acadian potato dish baked into a crusty pie, often available at local seafood houses and community markets.
Must-Try!
Creamy chowder loaded with local fish, shellfish, and seasonal vegetables, commonly served in waterfront eateries.
A rustic blueberry-based dessert similar to a cobbler, reflecting Atlantic Canadian berry treasures.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market by the water offering seafood, fresh produce, crafts, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Many residents are bilingual (French and English). Greet in the language you’re comfortable with, and switch as needed; politeness and small talk are appreciated.
Queue politely, maintain personal space, and respect quiet hours in residential areas; ask permission before taking photos of people.
Cross-border interactions with Quebec communities are common; be mindful of regional differences in etiquette and language use.
Safety
Tipping in Campbellton
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, a tip of 15-20% is customary for good service in restaurants and cafes. Rounding up at bars or cafés is common for small purchases, and a tip jar is sometimes present in casual venues.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; Interac e-Transfer and contactless payments are common; cash is always handy for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild with transitional weather; frequent showers. Great for blossoms, riverside trails, and early market openings.
Warm days with abundant outdoor events, waterfront activities, and long daylight hours; be prepared for occasional showers.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; excellent for scenic drives, hikes, and harvest festivals.
Cold with potential snow and ice; watch for icy roads and enjoy winter sports, cozy cafés, and riverbank scenery in a quiet season.
Campbellton at Night
Hiking in Campbellton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside trail options that provide scenic views of the water and surrounding forests.
Short to moderate trails offering peaceful forest walks and animal sightings.
A longer day trip for panoramic hilltop views and more challenging hiking, suitable for a weekend excursion.
Airports
How to reach Campbellton by plane.
A small regional airport located to the north of Campbellton, providing limited flights and convenient access for quick connections.
A larger regional airport offering more flight options, roughly a couple of hours’ drive from Campbellton.
A major international hub in New Brunswick for broader domestic and international connections, located several hours away by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Francophone and Anglophone residents, with strong Acadian and Indigenous influences shaping local culture.
A friendly, family-oriented town with a steady mix of long-term residents and seasonal visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A cornerstone of Canadian culture, with local leagues and community rinks during winter.
The Restigouche River is renowned for salmon and local fishing opportunities in season.
Winter-friendly activities on nearby trails and forested areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Campbellton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable-forward dishes at local eateries; many places can adapt seafood-focused plates; ask for substitutions and fresh market vegetables.