Wilderness reserves are large protected areas (greater than 1,000 km2) that are designed to protect significant natural features and landscapes. They also provide wilderness areas for traditional outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, canoeing, and hiking, and serve as study areas for researchers, teachers, and students. Entry permits are required for all activities.
There are two wilderness reserves in Newfoundland and Labrador, and both are located on the Island portion of the province. The Avalon and the Bay du Nord were both created primarily to protect the habitat and range of a caribou herd, in order to ensure its survival. They are excellent places for wilderness camping, canoeing and kayaking, hunting and angling, bird and wildlife watching, and other low-impact outdoor recreational activities.