Campbellton is a city in the northern part of the province of New Brunswick and is located in Restigouche County.
It lies on the south bank of the Restigouche River, which forms the boundary between New Brunswick and Quebec and is known for its scenic location near the Appalachian Mountains.
The area’s history is deeply rooted in the fishing and forestry industries with a rich cultural background, influenced by the Mi’kmaq natives as well as French, British and Irish settlers.
Campbellton is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts with salmon fishing, canoeing, hiking and skiing in the nearby Sugarloaf Provincial Park major attractions along with the annual Salmon Festival.
History of Campbellton, New Brunswick
The history of Campbellton reflects broader themes in Canadian history, such as indigenous history, European colonization, economic development based on natural resources and cultural diversity.
Before European settlement, the area around Campbellton was inhabited by the Mi’kmaq people. They used the land primarily for fishing and hunting, capitalizing on the abundant resources of the Restigouche River and its surrounding areas.
The first European to explore the region was Jacques Cartier in 1534, although permanent European settlement didn’t begin until much later.
The area saw an influx of Acadian settlers in the 18th century, followed by United Empire Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution.
Campbellton was named after Sir Archibald Campbell, the Lieutenant-Governor of New Brunswick from 1831 to 1837. The town was officially established in 1889.
The 19th century saw the development of the timber and shipbuilding industries, which became the backbone of Campbellton’s economy.
The arrival of the Intercolonial Railway and later the Canadian National Railway in the late 19th and early 20th centuries transformed Campbellton into a significant transportation hub.
While the forestry industry remains important, there has also been growth in sectors like healthcare, education and retail in modern times.
What Is Size and Population of Campbellton NB?
Campbellton is relatively small city in New Brunswick with a significantly lower population than Moncton, Saint John and the capital Fredericton.
As of 2023, the city’s population stands at 12,391 which was a massive 67% increase on 2011 census number with Campbellton growing at a rapid rate.
Campbellton NB Postal Code
Campbellton has multiple postal codes that correspond to different areas within the city. Postal codes typically begin with the letters “E3N” followed by additional characters.
Is Campbellton A Good Place To Live?
Campbellton is very appealing for families to live in thanks to his clear-air living and scenic beauty, with proximity to the Restigouche River and Appalachian Mountains.
The city is home to rich blend of cultures, and offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.
The city has a strong sense of community, cultural events and a bilingual environment, but economic opportunities are more limited compared to larger cities in New Brunswick.
Is Campbellton Expensive To Live?
The cost of living in Campbellton is generally considered to be more affordable compared to larger cities in Canada.
This affordability is reflected in housing prices, cost of utilities and general living expenses.
We’ve detailed the best and worst places to live in Campbellton in a separate guide.
Campbellton NB Real Estate Types & Prices
Housing in Campbellton is varied with single-detached homes making up 49.2% of the housing stock.
The median home value in Campbellton is $125,000, with an average value of $141,400.
What is the Average Age In Campbellton?
Campbellton is home to an older population than other cities with an average age of 49.2, which is higher than the national average.
What Is The Average Income In Campbellton, New Brunswick?
The average income in Campbellton is $38,160 per year with the average household incoming standing at $64,400 according to Career Beacon.
What Is The Crime Rate In Campbellton, New Brunswick?
Although largely a safe city, Campbellton crime rates are 80% higher than the New Brunswick average according to Area Vibes statistics.
Campbellton Weather Yearly and Temperatures
Campbellton experiences a typical Canadian climate with cold winters, and cooler summers.
The city transitions through distinct seasons – Winter (December-February), Spring (March-May), Summer (June-August), and Fall (September-November) and has a typical New Brunswick weather pattern.
Winter (December to February):
- Cold and snowy, with average high temperatures around 20-22°F and lows around 2°F.
Spring (March to May)
- Gradual warming, with average highs moving from 33°F in March to 62°F in May, and lows from 11°F to 38°F.
Summer (June to August)
- Warmer and humid, with average high temperatures peaking at 77°F in July and lows around 48-54°F.
Fall (September to November)
- Cooling down, with average highs decreasing from 67°F in September to 40°F in November, and lows from 44°F to 25°F.
Does Campbellton Get Hurricanes?
Campbellton is not typically in the direct path of hurricanes like those that affect the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States.
However, remnants of hurricanes or tropical storms can occasionally reach the area, especially during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
When this happens, these systems can bring increased rainfall and wind, but they are generally much weaker than when they are over warmer waters.
The impact of such remnants in Campbellton would typically be less severe compared to areas closer to the Atlantic coast.
What Language Is Spoken In Campbellton?
In Campbellton, the majority of residents are bilingual and speak both English and French – unsurprisingly perhaps given the location on the Quebec border.
The city’s population is linguistically diverse, with 51.6% of residents speaking French and 46.9% speaking English. Additionally, a small percentage of the population speaks both English and French.
This reflects the bilingual nature of the province of New Brunswick, Canada’s only officially bilingual province.
What Are Famous Attractions And Places Of Interest In Campbellton?
Sugarloaf Provincial Park
The park caters to both adventure enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful nature retreat with numerous trails, including the challenging ascent to Sugarloaf Mountain’s summit.
The park features bike trails for different skill levels, skiing and snowboarding in the winter months and is also ideal for wildlife, flora and fauna for the lesser adrenaline junkies.
Restigouche River
Ideal for fishing for its Atlantic salmon fishing, Restigouche River is also hugely popular for kayaking and canoeing on the water
The river also offers some scenic walks along the banks and the opportunity to spot local wildlife along the riverbanks.
Campbellton Regional Museum
The Campbellton Regional Museum offers a deep dive into the history and culture of the region.
It showcases exhibits on local heritage, including the indigenous Mi’kmaq culture, the fishing industry, and the area’s logging history.
The museum provides a comprehensive understanding of Campbellton’s development and cultural influences.
Heritage Walking Tour
The Heritage Walking Tour in Campbellton is a self-guided exploration of the city’s historic sites and architectural landmarks.
It takes visitors through various points of interest, offering a glimpse into the city’s past and evolution over the years. This tour is an excellent way for visitors to connect with the city’s history and architectural beauty.
Salmon Plaza
Home to the infamous giant salmon sculpture, Salmon Plaza showcases the city’s fishing heritage. This is the central points for the annual Salmon Festival.
Salmon Festival
Salmon Plaza in Campbellton is a notable landmark celebrating the city’s deep connection with salmon fishing.
It is highlighted by a prominent sculpture of a salmon, symbolizing the significance of the Restigouche River as a renowned salmon fishing destination.
This plaza serves as a cultural and historical point of interest for both locals and visitors, embodying the essence of Campbellton’s heritage and its relationship with the natural environment.
It’s a popular spot for photographs and leisurely walks, offering a unique glimpse into the community’s pride in its fishing legacy.
Golf
Enjoy a round at the Restigouche Golf Club, Campbellton’s number one course, which is well-regarded and known for its scenic views and challenging layout.
Established in 1923, it overlooks the picturesque Restigouche River and caters to golfers of various skill levels including visitors to the region.
Downtown Campbellton
Downtown Campbellton is a vibrant area with a mix of local shops and restaurants, where visitors can explore unique products and enjoy diverse dining options.
The area also includes cultural landmarks and historic sites, hosts various events and festivals that reflect the city’s cultural richness.