New Brunswick, known for its stunning natural beauty and maritime heritage, is also home to several abandoned places that reveal fascinating stories from the province’s past. From decaying industrial sites to eerie ghost towns, these locations offer a glimpse into forgotten history. Here are 10 of the most captivating abandoned places in New Brunswick, perfect for those interested in urban exploration (Urbex) and history.
1. Campbellton Psychiatric Hospital (Campbellton, New Brunswick)
The Campbellton Psychiatric Hospital, opened in the 1950s, was once a key mental health facility in the region. Closed in the early 2000s, the large, decaying building has been abandoned ever since. The empty corridors, crumbling walls, and eerie atmosphere make it one of New Brunswick’s most infamous abandoned locations, attracting urban explorers and paranormal enthusiasts alike.
2. Marysville Cotton Mill (Fredericton, New Brunswick)
Located just outside Fredericton, the Marysville Cotton Mill was one of the largest cotton mills in Canada when it opened in the 1880s. It operated for nearly a century before closing its doors. The massive stone structure, now abandoned, still stands as a reminder of the region’s industrial past. Overgrown with vegetation, the mill offers an intriguing spot for history buffs and explorers.
3. The Lepreau Radar Base (Lepreau, New Brunswick)
During the Cold War, Canada built several radar stations as part of the Pine Tree Line, including one in Lepreau, about an hour from Saint John. The base was abandoned in the 1980s and has been left to decay ever since. The collapsing buildings, rusting radar equipment, and the remote location give this site a spooky, apocalyptic feel.
4. St. Stephen’s Chocolate Factory (St. Stephen, New Brunswick)
Once a key player in Canada’s chocolate-making industry, the St. Stephen’s Chocolate Factory was abandoned after operations ceased in the mid-20th century. The empty factory, with its broken windows, rusting machinery, and old packaging materials, has become a ghostly reminder of the town’s once-thriving chocolate industry. While parts of it are off-limits, the exterior remains an eerie attraction.
5. Grand Manan Island’s Sardine Factories (Grand Manan, New Brunswick)
Grand Manan Island was once known for its booming sardine industry, with several sardine canning factories operating along the coast. These factories were abandoned as the industry declined in the 20th century. Today, the crumbling, rusting remains of these once-bustling factories can still be found on the island, offering a glimpse into the maritime history of New Brunswick.
6. Ladysmith Ghost Town (Queens County, New Brunswick)
Ladysmith is a small ghost town that was once home to a thriving lumber industry. Located in Queens County, it was abandoned in the early 1900s when the local lumber mill shut down. Today, only a few overgrown foundations and crumbling structures remain. The town’s desolate, forgotten atmosphere is both eerie and fascinating for those interested in exploring ghost towns.
7. Red Head Harbour Lighthouse (Saint John, New Brunswick)
The Red Head Harbour Lighthouse near Saint John has stood abandoned for decades. Once a guiding beacon for ships navigating the Bay of Fundy, the lighthouse has since fallen into disrepair, with broken windows and a rusting exterior. The isolation of the location, combined with the dilapidated state of the lighthouse, creates a haunting maritime atmosphere.
8. McAdam Railway Station (McAdam, New Brunswick)
Built in 1901, the McAdam Railway Station was once a vital transportation hub in New Brunswick. After the decline of the railway industry, the station was abandoned in the 1950s. Though part of it has been restored, many sections remain in a state of decay, including old railcars and the once-grand station interiors. The site has an eerie, ghostly charm, with its silent halls and fading grandeur.
9. Fredericton's Old Provincial Jail (Fredericton, New Brunswick)
The Old Provincial Jail in Fredericton was built in the 1840s and served as the main jail for the region until it was closed and abandoned in the mid-20th century. The old stone building, complete with narrow cells, rusting iron bars, and dark, cold interiors, has become an eerie attraction. The jail’s long history, including several executions, adds to its haunting atmosphere.
10. Tynemouth Creek Covered Bridge (Fundy National Park, New Brunswick)
Located near Fundy National Park, the Tynemouth Creek Covered Bridge is an abandoned wooden bridge that once connected rural communities along the Bay of Fundy. The bridge was decommissioned decades ago, and its weathered, collapsing structure now stands as a haunting relic of a bygone era. Its remote location and deteriorating condition make it a popular destination for photographers and explorers alike.
Conclusion
New Brunswick’s landscape is dotted with abandoned places that tell stories of industrial booms, maritime heritage, and forgotten communities. From decaying psychiatric hospitals to ghost towns and crumbling factories, these sites offer a unique look into the province’s past. As always, it is important to prioritize safety and respect property laws when exploring these locations, as many are dangerous or off-limits. For those who explore responsibly, these abandoned places provide a haunting and captivating journey through New Brunswick’s forgotten history.
