Terra Nova National Park & Our Famous RV Cat Tunnel System

Kim Martinez
Jul 6
3 min read

Updated: Jul 7

Newman Sound Campground - Where Cat Dreams Come True

Discovering Terra Nova's Hidden Gem

Terra Nova National Park offers one of the most beautiful RV campgrounds we've experienced - Newman Sound Campground. We couldn't have timed our visit better, as Canada's "Canada Strong" program is currently encouraging everyone (not just Canadians!) to explore the country's incredible national parks and campgrounds.

The best part? All of Canada's National Parks and National Monuments have free entrance, and campgrounds are 25% off. We jumped on this amazing opportunity and booked our spot at Newman Sound - a large, beautifully wooded campground positioned right at the edge of two Newfoundland peninsulas, situated on the ocean with two large sounds running on either side of the park.

The Perfect Cat Paradise Setup

Terra Nova Big Campsite

We scored a fantastic space that allowed for an elaborate cat setup, and since we were staying for four days, Thumper, Bandit, and Twix got the full run of the site. There were a few territorial squirrels that kept chattering warnings at them not to get too close to their nests, plus lots of birds providing the perfect soundtrack - basically cat heaven!

The "Crazy Cat RV Tunnel System" Everyone's Talking About

Everyone asks about our tunnel system. People stop, back up, bring friends back for a second look, take countless pictures, and even knock on our door for more information. It's become quite the conversation starter!

Setup Time: It Depends on the Space

I customize the system based on each campsite - every location is different. On rainy or windy days when space is limited, I might set up a simple straight line configuration with a low tent and a few weights inside. This basic setup takes about 15 minutes.

When I have more room to work with, I love to expand and get creative with different connection configurations. There are so many ways to connect the tunnels - I do it differently almost every time! A more elaborate setup might take 20-25 minutes, and I'll admit, I've been known to "overdo it" when the space allows.

To purchase my favorite Cat tunnel system click here or go to "Our Favorite Gear"

Takedown: Always Faster Than Setup

No matter how long the setup takes, takedown is always quicker - never more than 15 minutes. I have a system down pat: the tunnels fold and gather easily, and all the tents fit into their bags quickly.

The Results: Happy, Safe Cats

The end result is a setup that gives our cats incredible freedom while keeping them safe. They absolutely love going in and out (and in and out and in and out!) of their tunnel system. When we're at the RV, we usually leave the door open all the time - the tunnel connects through a ring cut out of our screen door with weather stripping around it to keep bugs out.

We often leave the door open with the tunnel attached all night, depending on where we're camping. Here in Newfoundland, we feel very safe. We do have a small lock on the screen door, and there are really limited animals that would pose a threat to our cats.

A Game-Changer for RV LifeThe cat tunnel system has become an essential part of our RV travel life. It gives our three cats the outdoor enrichment they crave while keeping them secure, and it's brought us countless conversations with fellow travelers who are fascinated by our setup.Stay tuned for our upcoming video showing the complete setup process and watch Thumper, Bandit, and Twix enjoying their tunnel adventures!