Kemptville: Lakes, Rivers and History

Kemptville combines a landscape of lakes and rivers with a layered local history. Pearl Lake, the Tusket River and the Little River shape the area’s connection to its waterways. The area also features forested land, a large recreation area and historical themes ranging from Mi’kmaq history to Birchdale’s changing uses.

Lakes, Rivers and Forested Landscapes

Kemptville is located on Pearl Lake. The Little River runs through the community and is a tributary of the Tusket River; the Tusket River, in turn, runs along Kemptville. The two rivers therefore have different connections to the area: the Little River flows through Kemptville, while the Tusket River runs along it.

Kemptville’s landscape is also shaped by numerous sizeable lakes and rivers. Pine, fir, spruce and deciduous trees grow in the forested areas. Water and forest give the area’s description two concrete focal points: the lake and river landscape on the one hand, and the variety of tree species in the forested areas on the other.

Activities on the Water

Activities are tied to different bodies of water. Boating is available on the many lakes near Kemptville; kayaking is possible on the small rapids of the Tusket River near Kemptville. When comparing these options, you can use the type of water as a guide: the lakes are suited to boating, while the river rapids are suited to kayaking.

Kemptville has a large recreation area used for camping and sport fishing. This extends the area’s connection to the water beyond its lakes and river to a dedicated recreational area. If you are planning a specific activity, check the relevant access and use conditions beforehand.

History and Cultural Heritage in Kemptville

Kemptville’s documented cultural heritage includes Mi’kmaq history and the settlement of people from Argyle and Roberts Island in the early 19th century. The name of the community also has a historical connection: Kemptville was named in 1821 in honour of Sir James Kempt, the governor of Nova Scotia at the time.

Birchdale adds to this local history with the changing use of a building over different periods. It was built in 1911 and served as a fishing and hunting lodge from 1911 to 1920. Birchdale was renamed Nova Nada and, after being acquired by the Spiritual Life Institute, was used as a Carmelite hermitage. These stages illustrate how the history of a named place can be connected in different ways to settlement, naming and the use of buildings.

More Places of Interest in Yarmouth County

The wider destination of Yarmouth County has its own natural and cultural heritage sites. Acadian Skies & Mi’kmaq Lands in Yarmouth County was the first destination in North America to receive Starlight Certification.

Ellenwood Lake Provincial Park in Yarmouth County offers a 1.5-kilometre hiking trail through traditional Acadian forest. Activities in the park include swimming, boating and fishing. In the off-season, the park grounds and trail are suitable for walking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing; the buildings and summer facilities are closed then. These different seasonal uses can help you understand the character of the park depending on when you travel.

Le Village Historique Acadien de la Nouvelle-Écosse is located in West Pubnico and includes an old Acadian cemetery and five 19th-century buildings. The visitor reception centre offers interpretive exhibits on Acadian history and culture in Nova Scotia and other areas. A gift shop carries items made by local artisans. For specific visit planning, it is advisable to check current visitor options.

Discover more destinations: Tusket, Pubnico, Port Maitland, Argyle, Yarmouth.

View the broader travel guide: Yarmouth County.