If you are looking for a spot that seems farther away from the rest of the country and is a good spot to relax and do some recreation, than look no further than Miscou Island. Miscou Island is a place tucked away in the Maritime Province of New Brunswick. It was one of the first places explored by Jacques Cartier in 1534 and was a place for Basque fisherman around the same time period. It is in an area where the majority of residents are Acadian, their first language being french. The main industries in the area are fishing and peat moss harvesting. As a camping spot the area is second to none. The island itself is popular for birding, kite boarding and striped bass fishing.
There are a few accommodations on the island of Miscou itself, one being Camping La Vague. Camping La Vague is a campground that is run by a couple who are very welcoming to visitors both English and French. The camping can be described as “glamping”. There are bathrooms and a nice shower with warm water on the location. There is potable water however it would also be good to bring some since in dry years there isn’t a lot of water on site. As well located in the campground is a public shelter that can be used if groups want to get together and eat together or have an event. Wifi can be found at the entrance to the camp. You have the option to reserve a campsite, a cabin, or an RV. Various prices are posted on the campground website. Since fishing is an activity that can be done on the island, there is a fish cleaning station that has been set up away from the camp. The campground is situated right on the ocean. There is a sand beach running from the campground to pretty much all around the island. From the campground you can see across Chaleur Bay. From where you are you can see the tip of Gaspe far in the distance.
Things To Do
One popular activity that we often see people doing in the fall is bird watching. The island’s sand dunes and lagoons host a variety of migratory birds, including the rare piping plover. It is not unusual to be driving along and then see a random group seemingly just wandering the flats and dunes while holding cameras. The island is also known for the Miscou Island Lighthouse, which was built in 1856 and is located at the northern tip of the island. It has been chosen as a National Historic site.
Another activity that is popular on the island is sport fishing for striped bass. It is arguably one of the best striper spots around. For bait it is recommended to use either herring or squid and one can fish easily for them from the beach. Depending on their migration patterns one can get a lot of good action. Bring some good beach casting gear and try out some sports around the island. Be there when the tide is coming in, this is the time that they become most active. Here is a rig you can purchase for attaching bait:
The next time you plan your camping vacation, take a good look at Miscou Island. It is a great place to get away to and enjoy the ocean and what nature has to offer.