Blomidon Provincial Park*

Overview

Situated on the rugged headland of Cape Blomidon, this relatively large park overlooking the scenic Minas Basin offers camping, day-use, coastal access and is renowned for its hiking trails and scenic views.

70 campsites, open for camping from May to September.

Protection Values

The ecological integrity of this park is high and it contributes to the Province’s efforts to protect 12 % of its landbase by 2015.  The park is home to six critically imperiled vascular plant species, 12 imperiled vascular plant species, and three vascular plant species that are vulnerable to extirpation or extinction.  In addition, the park is home to 11 species of birds that are vulnerable to extirpation or extinction. A proposed expansion to the park boundary is expected to greatly enhance the property’s protection values.

Education Values

Provincially and regionally significant park, providing opportunities to interpret a wide variety of themes, including geology, geographic setting, evolution of regional landscape, flora, fauna.  This park has been identified as a significant location for the delivery of aboriginal cultural interpretation programs.  Provides panoramic views of Minas Basin.  Numerous interpretive events occur annually.

Tourism Values

Provincially and regionally significant tourism attraction with high quality natural heritage resources providing day use and destination opportunities for resident and out-of-province visitors, at a well recognized provincial landmark.  Provides wide range of facilities and services.  The Province’s recent acquisition of Cape Split further enhances and reinforces the provincial significance of this park.

Outdoor Recreation Values

Camping, picnicking, coastal access, hiking, viewing

Annual Visitation

6074 campers; day-use unknown

Revenue

2010: $90,178

Operating Cost

2010: $212,047

Other Site Considerations

Spruce Bark beetle damage may require restoration program to remove dead and dying trees in public use areas to re-establish a more suitable forest cover.