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Mactaquac Provincial Park adventures

Mactaquac Provincial Park Adventures

Mactaquac Provincial Park is a large outdoor recreation area centered around the Mactaquac Dam on the Saint John River, offering diverse activities including hiking, camping, fishing, and water sports.

5,000+
Acres Protected
20+
Miles of Trails
Approximately 150,000
Annual Visitors
1967
Year Established

About Mactaquac Provincial Park

 

Mactaquac Provincial Park is situated on the banks of the Saint John River near Fredericton in New Brunswick, Canada. Created in conjunction with the construction of the Mactaquac Dam in the 1960s, the park covers over 5,000 acres of mixed forest, wetlands, and river shoreline. The park's landscape includes a large reservoir created by the dam, providing extensive opportunities for boating, kayaking, and fishing. The ecology of the park features typical Acadian forest species, including maple, birch, and spruce, and serves as habitat for various birds, mammals, and freshwater fish. Recreationally, the park is popular for its well-maintained picnic areas, campgrounds, and multi-use trails suitable for hiking, biking, and in winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching and exploring the park’s interpretive exhibits which highlight the history of the dam construction and local ecology. The park's notable landmarks include scenic viewpoints overlooking the reservoir and river, as well as the nearby Mactaquac Dam complex itself. Mactaquac Provincial Park is appreciated for its family-friendly environment and variety of seasonal activities, making it a key outdoor destination in the region that combines natural beauty with recreational infrastructure.

Highlights

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Views of the Mactaquac Dam and Saint John River reservoir

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Extensive multi-use trail system for hiking and biking

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Wildlife viewing opportunities including migratory birds and deer

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Popular campground with lakeside and forested sites

Notable Natural Features

Mactaquac Dam

An important hydroelectric dam built in the 1960s, creating the reservoir that shapes much of the park's landscape and recreational offerings.

Trail System

Over 20 miles of interconnected trails for hiking, mountain biking, and snow sports that traverse forests, wetlands, and river viewpoints.

Reservoir and River Shoreline

Extensive water access for boating, fishing, paddling, and birdwatching across the Saint John River’s wide reservoir.