We have been to NL several times over the years. Plan to spend as much time as you possibly can there - one month minimum. It is a big island and there are lots of interesting things to do and see. We far prefer to take the short ferry both ways. The ferry is expensive but you will not regret the experience you will have. There used to be lots of good boondocking places - not sure if that is still the case.
One thing we enjoyed doing was visiting the small dinner theatres in various towns. We would ask if we could stay overnight in the parking lot following the presentation and were never refused.