Shepody National Wildlife Area wilderness guide
National Wildlife Area · NB

Shepody National Wildlife Area

A haven for bird enthusiasts, Shepody National Wildlife Area offers a rich diversity of habitats crucial for the protected species it harbors.

National Wildlife Area12,200

Designation

National Wildlife Area

Total Wilderness Area

12,200

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Shepody National Wildlife Area

A haven for bird enthusiasts, Shepody National Wildlife Area offers a rich diversity of habitats crucial for the protected species it harbors.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in southeastern New Brunswick, Canada, Shepody National Wildlife Area comprises over 12,000 acres of mudflats, salt marshes, and forests. It is part of the larger Bay of Fundy ecosystem, renowned for having the highest tides in the world. Established in 1980, the area plays a critical role as a migratory stopover for thousands of birds, particularly during the fall and spring migrations. The diverse habitats support shorebirds such as the endangered Semipalmated Sandpiper and provide breeding grounds for many waterfowl species. The environment also supports a variety of plant species that thrive in the unique tidal and saline conditions. The area attracts researchers, bird watchers, and nature lovers keen on experiencing its natural beauty and ecological importance. The Chignecto Isthmus, a vital ecological corridor, further enhances its significance in species migration and genetic exchange.

Field Guide · National Wildlife Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Shepody National Wildlife Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The expansive mudflats that attract thousands of shorebirds✦ The salt marshes, crucial habitats for breeding waterfowl✦ The panoramic views of the Bay of Fundy✦ The endangered Semipalmated Sandpiper migration
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Shepody National Wildlife Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Shepody National Wildlife Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Shepody National Wildlife Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Shepody National Wildlife Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access, but no facilities are available.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Shepody National Wildlife Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Hopewell Cape, New Brunswick
⌖ 3.91 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hopewell Cape, New Brunswick

Hopewell Cape offers stunning outdoor adventures on the Bay of Fundy coast. Hike scenic trails, kayak around iconic rock formations, and explore vast tidal flats. Ideal from late spring to early fall for nature lovers and photographers.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Riverside-Albert, New Brunswick
⌖ 10.57 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Riverside-Albert, New Brunswick

Riverside-Albert is a quiet Bay of Fundy village offering scenic hikes, paddling through tidal rivers, and excellent wildlife viewing. Ideal for travelers seeking nature, stunning tides, and seasonal colors in a peaceful setting.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Sackville, New Brunswick
⌖ 10.62 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sackville, New Brunswick

Sackville is a welcoming town in New Brunswick known for its scenic hiking, paddling, and birdwatching across lush marshes and coastal landscapes. A perfect basecamp for exploring natural areas and experiencing the Bay of Fundy’s unique tides.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Memramcook, New Brunswick
⌖ 12.21 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Memramcook, New Brunswick

Memramcook is a quiet New Brunswick town ideal for hiking, bird watching, kayaking, and cross-country skiing. Its scenic rivers, forest trails, and cultural sites offer a peaceful nature escape year-round.

Late Spring to Early Fall; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Amherst, Nova Scotia
⌖ 15.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Amherst, Nova Scotia

Amherst, Nova Scotia, offers peaceful hiking, biking, paddling, and winter skiing amid coastal and forest landscapes. This small town is a quiet base for exploring nearby parks, tidal bays, and historic sites year-round.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Riverview, New Brunswick
⌖ 22.39 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Riverview, New Brunswick

Riverview, New Brunswick, offers outdoor lovers easy access to river paddling, scenic hiking, biking trails, and winter cross-country skiing. Its riverfront parks and unique tidal bore make it a great year-round destination for family-friendly adventures.

Late Spring through Fall for paddling and biking; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Shepody National Wildlife Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

One Hour of Pure Throttle: Jetski Rush from Pointe-du-Chêne
ADVEXPEDITION
Pointe-du-Chêne, New Brunswick
Jet Ski RentalADV Bookable

One Hour of Pure Throttle: Jetski Rush from Pointe-du-Chêne

A one-hour jetski rental that puts beginners and thrill-seekers on premium Sea‑Doos to glide across the waves—this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and who fits the ride.

Jet Ski RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Llamas on the Shore: A Short 1‑km Beach Walk at Petit Cap
ADVEXPEDITION
Beaubassin-est, New Brunswick
Walking TourADV Bookable

Llamas on the Shore: A Short 1‑km Beach Walk at Petit Cap

A gentle, 45‑minute guided 1 km stroll on Petit Cap Beach that pairs easy seaside walking with up‑close encounters and photo time with llamas and alpacas.

Walking TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Riding Minas Basin’s Surge for Striped Bass at Kingsport
ADVEXPEDITION
Canning, Nova Scotia
FishingADV Bookable

Riding Minas Basin’s Surge for Striped Bass at Kingsport

A guided 4.5-hour charter in the Minas Basin that targets striped bass amid the Bay of Fundy’s massive tides and requires local boat-handling expertise for safety and success.

FishingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip