Discover Terra Nova National Park
Nestled in the rugged beauty of Newfoundland and Labrador, Terra Nova National Park beckons with its rich history of heroism and endurance. This page serves as a portal to explore the resilience of the human spirit against the backdrop of untamed wilderness.
As you delve into Terra Nova’s depths, you’ll uncover tales of exploration, colonization, and the enduring bond between humanity and nature. From the Indigenous peoples who first roamed these lands to the European settlers who braved the Atlantic to carve out a new life, each chapter in Terra Nova’s saga is etched with the marks of courage and perseverance.
Top 3 Facts About Terra Nova National Park
01
Size
Covering an impressive area of 400 square kilometers (155 square miles), Terra Nova National Park is one of Canada’s larger national parks, offering ample space for exploration and outdoor activities.
02
Visitor Numbers
Annually, Terra Nova National Park welcomes around 100,000 visitors worldwide. This number continues to grow as more people discover the park’s natural beauty, rich history, and diverse recreational opportunities.
03
Campgrounds
Terra Nova National Park features multiple campgrounds catering to various preferences, from fully-serviced sites with amenities like electricity and showers to more rustic backcountry camping options. With over 200 campsites across the park, visitors can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying modern conveniences.
Camping and transportation in Terra Nova National Park
Backcountry camping permits required for wilderness camping opportunities.
How to Get to Terra Nova National Park
Getting to Terra Nova National Park is relatively straightforward, although it depends on your starting point. Here are general directions:
- By Car: If you’re traveling from Newfoundland, Terra Nova National Park is accessible via the Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1). From the west, take Route 330 or Route 310, which lead directly to the park. From the east, you can reach the park by taking Route 1 to Clarenville and then following Route 310.
- By Air: The closest major airport to Terra Nova National Park is St. John’s International Airport (YYT) in St. John’s, Newfoundland. From there, you can rent a car and drive to the park, which is approximately three hours away.
- Boating: For those arriving by boat, Terra Nova National Park has a marina located at Newman Sound, providing docking facilities for boaters exploring the coastline.
Places to Stay Near Terra Nova National Park
There are several campgrounds and camping options near Terra Nova National Park, catering to various preferences and amenities. Here are some popular places to camp near the park:
- Terra Nova National Park Campgrounds: The park offers several campgrounds, including Newman Sound Campground, Malady Head Campground, and Newman Sound Adirondack Campsites. These campgrounds provide a range of facilities, including washrooms, showers, and picnic areas, and offer stunning views of the park’s natural beauty.
- Salmon Cove Sands: Located just outside the boundaries of Terra Nova National Park, Salmon Cove Sands offers a beautiful beachside camping experience. With serviced and unserviced campsites, visitors can enjoy beachcombing, swimming, and picnicking while camping in this picturesque setting.
- Thorburn Lake Park: Situated approximately 20 minutes west of Terra Nova National Park, Thorburn Lake Park offers campsites along the shores of Thorburn Lake. Campers can enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing in the lake, as well as hiking trails and scenic viewpoints nearby.
Driving
The park features well-maintained roads that provide access to various points of interest, trailheads, campgrounds, and scenic viewpoints.
Public
Terra Nova National Park does not have public transportation services. Visitors typically rely on private vehicles or rental cars to explore the park’s various attractions and access its amenities.
Parking
Terra Nova National Park provides parking areas throughout the park to accommodate visitors who arrive by car. These parking areas are typically located near trailheads, picnic areas, scenic viewpoints, and other points of interest.
Best Time to Go to Terra Nova National Park
Summer
Summer is the peak season in Terra Nova National Park, attracting visitors with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the perfect time to explore the park’s extensive network of hiking trails, which lead to breathtaking viewpoints, serene ponds, and secluded beaches. Water-based activities abound during the summer months, with kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding opportunities on the park’s pristine lakes and coastal waters. Families can enjoy picnics at scenic spots throughout the park or participate in interpretive programs and guided walks offered by park staff. Camping is popular in the summer, with campsites filling up quickly, so make reservations well in advance.
Winter
While winter brings colder temperatures and snowfall to Terra Nova National Park, it also offers unique outdoor recreation and exploration opportunities. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities, allowing visitors to traverse the park’s snowy landscapes and experience its serene winter beauty. Ice fishing is another favorite pastime, with anglers drilling holes in the frozen lakes to catch trout and smelt. For those seeking a more leisurely winter experience, the park’s groomed trails are perfect for snowmobiling or a peaceful stroll through a winter wonderland.
Spring
Springtime in Terra Nova National Park brings new life as the landscape awakens from winter’s grasp. During this season, temperatures rise, and the park begins to bloom with vibrant wildflowers and budding trees. Spring is an excellent time for hiking as trails become more accessible, offering opportunities to witness cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. Birdwatching enthusiasts will delight in the chance to spot migratory birds returning to the park, including warblers, waterfowl, and birds of prey. Anglers can also use the spring runoff to cast their lines in the park’s rivers and streams, hoping to reel in trout and salmon.
Fall
As summer fades into fall, Terra Nova National Park transforms into a kaleidoscope of autumn colors, with vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold painting the landscape. Hiking remains popular, with cooler temperatures making for comfortable treks through the park’s forests and along its coastal trails. Anglers can enjoy some of the best fishing of the year as salmon begin their annual spawning run in the park’s rivers and streams. Wildlife enthusiasts may also spot moose, black bears, and other animals preparing for the winter months ahead.
Must-See Attractions
Helpful Tips: Making the Most of Your Adventure to Terra Nova National Park
Plan Ahead
Before your trip, research the park’s attractions, trails, and facilities. Consider booking accommodations and campsites in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
Pack Essentials
Bring essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, a map or GPS device, and a first aid kit. Proper footwear is essential for hiking, and bear spray may be advisable for certain trails.
Respect Wildlife
Terra Nova National Park is home to diverse wildlife, including moose, black bears, and various bird species. Observe wildlife from a safe distance and never feed or approach animals. Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.
Stay on Designated Trails
Stick to designated trails and obey signage to protect fragile ecosystems and prevent accidents. Some trails may be closed or have restrictions due to wildlife activity or environmental conditions, so be sure to check for updates before hiking.
Frequently Asked Questions about Terra Nova National Park
The park is open year-round, but operating hours for facilities such as visitor centers and campgrounds may vary depending on the season. It’s best to check the park’s website or contact park staff for current hours.
Yes, there are entrance fees for Terra Nova National Park. Fees vary depending on the type of entry pass (e.g., daily, annual) and the visitor’s age and residency status. Details on fees can be found on the park’s website.
Yes, the park offers several campgrounds with both serviced and unserviced campsites and backcountry camping options. There are also nearby accommodations in towns such as Glovertown and nearby bed and breakfasts.
Yes, fishing is permitted in Terra Nova National Park. Anglers must have a valid Newfoundland and Labrador fishing license, and there may be specific regulations regarding catch limits and species.
Yes, swimming is allowed in designated areas within Terra Nova National Park. Sandy Pond and other freshwater lakes offer opportunities for swimming, but visitors should exercise caution and be aware of water conditions.
Yes, Terra Nova National Park offers winter recreational opportunities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. However, checking trail conditions and safety advisories before engaging in these activities is essential.