Camping in Maine: Best Maine Campgrounds 2023

Q: Is Maine good for camping?

Maine is an excellent destination for camping, offering a diverse range of landscapes and outdoor experiences. From coastal campgrounds to lush forests, the state boasts numerous public and private camping options for both tent and RV campers. Maine 's natural beauty, including Acadia National Park , Baxter State Park , and the famous Appalachian Trail, provide ample opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, canoeing, and fishing. To explore some of the best camping options in Maine , check out Hipcamp. Keep in mind that the camping season in Maine is typically from May to October, with peak season falling between June and August. During the off-season, some campgrounds may be closed or have limited services available.

Q: Is there free camping in Maine?

Yes, there is free camping in Maine , particularly in the state's vast public lands, such as the North Maine Woods and the Downeast Lakes Land Trust. These areas offer primitive, dispersed camping opportunities with limited or no facilities. Keep in mind that you should always practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment when camping in these areas. Additionally, some locations may require a small fee or permit for access, so it's essential to research specific areas before your trip. For more information on camping in Maine , visit Hipcamp.

Q: Is it legal to camp anywhere in Maine?

No, it is not legal to camp anywhere in Maine . Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds, state parks, and national forests. In some cases, you can camp on private land with the landowner's permission. Wild camping, also known as dispersed or primitive camping, is allowed in some areas of Maine , such as the White Mountain National Forest and the Appalachian Trail. However, it is essential to follow the specific rules and regulations for each area where you plan to camp. You can find more information about camping in Maine on Hipcamp.

Q: Is boondocking allowed in Maine?

Boondocking, also known as dry camping or dispersed camping, refers to camping without any hookups or amenities, typically in remote areas or on public lands. In Maine , boondocking usually means camping on public lands, such as national forests or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas, where you can camp for free or with minimal fees. Boondocking in Maine allows campers to enjoy the state's natural beauty, solitude, and wildlife while being self-sufficient and leaving no trace. Some popular boondocking areas in Maine include the North Maine Woods and remote parts of Downeast Maine . It's essential to follow Leave No Trace principles and local regulations when boondocking to ensure these pristine areas are preserved for future generations.

Q: When should I go to Maine for fall colors?

For the best fall colors in Maine , plan your visit during late September to early October. This timing typically coincides with peak foliage in various parts of the state, including Acadia National Park and the Maine Highlands. For the most accurate fall foliage predictions, check out Hipcamp's interactive foliage map .

United States
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Maine

95% (6868 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Maine

Under $50

88%

(250)

Top camping destinations

View of the Bubble's from Jordan Pond House

Acadia National Park

486 campgrounds

Sebago Lake State Park

1041 campgrounds

Camden Hills State Park

583 campgrounds

Cobscook Bay State Park

12 top campgrounds in Maine

95%

(345)

Hidden Valley Nature Center

8 sites · Lodging, Tents1000 acres · Newcastle, Lincoln

HIDDEN VALLEY NATURE CENTER IS 1,000 ACRES OF PROTECTED LAND IN JEFFERSON, MAINE - RICH WITH A VARIETY OF HABITAT AND TERRAIN INCLUDING OVER A MILE OF SHORE FRONT ON LITTLE DYER POND. Miles of multi-use trails great for hiking and biking, rolled and groomed XC ski trails, and several rustic huts and tent sites are waiting for you. Hidden Valley Nature Center (HVNC) is your forest. HVNC is part of Midcoast Conservancy, and a portion of the booking fees goes to support our mission to protect and restore vital lands and waters on a scale that matters. Midcoast Conservancy members receive a 40% discount. Not a member? Visit the Midcoast Conservancy website and join through the "donate" button at the top right of the home page. Your membership confirmation email will include your discount code. Thank you!

99%

(488)

The Point

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Gouldsboro, Hancock

The Point is located in Gouldsboro, in Downeast Maine on the Schoodic Peninsula near the Schoodic portion of Acadia National Park on occupied Wabanaki land. The point is our home, offered to guests as a place for seekers of peace and solace to gain a better relationship and appreciation with nature in a world that has forgotten the importance and connection we all have with the planet that sustains us. A priority here for me is keeping this land pristine and respected. Our mission to save and protect our natural environment and keep it natural and wild can only be accomplished with the active mindfulness of you. We aim to prove that hipcamp can be a magical experience for private landowners and campers alike, to provide a means of temporal community and beneficial alternative to traditional campgrounds; one that does not degrade the environment and break the peace that small towns still contain. Please be mindful of the trash you generate and mindful of the noise you are making— we aim to provide seekers of peace a *quiet* time in nature. Together we are here to be an example to others of what mindful camping can look like in this changing world. Thanks for caring to come, see, explore, learn and being apart of the solution! <3 We hope to hear from you <3

92%

(358)

Camps of the Pioneers

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Ellsworth, Hancock

Our property has a history detailed in the arrowheads and other Wabanaki artifacts found around the property. European settlers have also left clues behind of the shipbuilding industry and 1700's culture.Experience a bit of natural immersion and enjoy the endless opportunities for outdoor recreation while camping in the northern forests of Downeast Maine! We use our 6 acre property to focus on producing organically grown herbs, fruit, vegetables for local markets. We're finally making available the properties scenic brooks, forests and meadows to folks seeking to experience a truly unforgettable, countryside retreat.We’re just off the beaten path in an agricultural and fishing community on the Union River, 20 minutes drive from Acadia National Park and Mt. Desert Island. See what our other guests have had to say about their stays-“It’s an experience I would repeat with pleasure. Difficult to be short about my highlights: hearing the loon at night certainly, waking up with the quarter moon over my head, seeing the progression in changing colors of the leaves,the views from Mount Cadillac, and Beech Wood trail, Jordan Pond and the Bubbles,so many things really.” - Christine from Montpelier, France, Sept 2021."We were so at peace when we got here we just spent the rest of the day hanging at the yurt enjoying the peace and quiet today we are heading to the ocean!"- Jody from New Hampshire, July 2021."We could not have found a more idyllic place, plus it was our first experience in a yurt. We found your notes about Acadia super helpful and the yurt was just so beautiful and cozy. Having a hot bath and a little fire in the wood stove after a day of biking the Carriage Roads and swimming at Sand Beach could not have been more perfect. So glad we were at the yurt to enjoy the area and Acadia. We had an incredible stay and are hoping to come back next summer."- Jenn & Neil, August 2020.

Wolves and Sounds of the Night

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Trenton, Hancock

Before you make a reservation read the description of each site. Read all of the info. Our camping section is located on the property of Kisma Preserve. Home to black bear, local mammals , and our favorite, wolves. We live here full time and have been here in one way or another for over 30 years. The sounds of the night are magical. Unleash your imagination and camp here away from the crowds you may find within the local Acadia National Park area. Close to basic necessities, and a step away from the masses. We do educational tours daily by reservation. We may allow camping in Winter months but if it is between November and May it is very important to call and find out. The shower will be unavailable in freezing months and some sites inaccessible. CALL and speak with a staff member before reserving. Self contained Adventure Vans and tent campers with Winter Gear can be accommodated. If you want to have a solid roof , screens and a fabulous view ask about reserving our Cadillac Mountain View Loft or if the idea of being naked under the stars is appealing opt for our Raw and Rough site.! Pulling in late, and leaving early for a typical Sunrise reservation.? We can also accommodate that if we know that is all you want. Traveling with your horse.? Talk to us about an Equine site. The Biker’s Bunkhouse is ideal for motorcycle travelers as it shelters both the guest and the Bike/s. Always call, we can answer all questions to get you into the right site for your style of adventuring. With each listing be sure to read all the information. If you are interested in a spontaneous camping adventure, if your luggage got lost or if you just don’t want to deal with transporting camping gear we can connect you with a local gear renter who can supply you with a basic box of necessities including a tent. Questions.? Call.

96%

(326)

Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss

12 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Hancock

Come explore real Maine away from the crowds of Mount Desert Island/Acadia National Park/Bar Harbor at our sites at Wildberry Farm (Penobscot), Blueberry Fields Forever (Blue Hill) or Quiet Cove (Stonington)! Ask the host for tons of local recommendations, including best places to swim, hike, eat, or even have a super local experience and hop the Mail Boat out to Isle au Haut (out of nearby Stonington Harbor) and explore the beautiful trails and beaches of an even more remote island off the Maine coast!

Spectacle Island, Damariscotta Lake

1 site · Tent1 acre · Newcastle, Lincoln

The sister islands, shaped like a pair of spectacles as their name suggests, offer opportunities for swimming, blueberry picking, camping, and general exploration. Although the islands make up a small portion of the 1000+ acres protected by Midcoast Conservancy in the Damariscotta Lake Watershed, they are among the most popular. The islands have long been a gathering spot for local families to swim. The islands were donated to Midcoast Conservancy in 2000 and are now forever protected. When you reserve your spot on Spectacle Island, know that it comes with a healthy dose of day use during peak summer weekends.

100%

(70)

Hazelbrook Cabin at Full Plate Farm

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Round Pond, Lincoln

Raising our food and building community here in Midcoast Maine.

Four Acre Woods Campground

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Deer Isle, Hancock

A beautiful island campground, thickly forested with spruce, fir, and birch, was created over 60 years ago, on Sunshine Island in Maine. Under the name, Sunshine Campground, it hosted people from all over the world and delivered the spirit and essence of this ancient, abundant land - that so many ancestors had roamed and celebrated before. As far as through the 90’s, it was open to the public, but then sat, alone, for 15 years, waiting for someone to revive it and bring it back to the world. Then one day, Caleb and Wolf met on a bus, heading south from Down East Maine, and instantly connected and joined forces. They worked together, redressing a home, in Stonington, for visitors to experience and became brothers. Eventually, the presence and opportunity of the campground caught their attention and after working out the technicalities, they worked together to bring this beautiful land and campground back to the people under its new life and name, Four Acre Woods. After opening on July 1st 2020, the land is finally back to sharing all of her beauty and spirit with the people. So, Welcome Home. Sincerely, - Four Acre Woods Caretakers

Slippery Rock Trails LLC

5 sites · Lodging, Tents400 acres · Greene, Androscoggin

Forty five years ago, our family started assembling 400 acres of woods and fields on the banks of the beautiful Androscoggin River. We enjoy actively managing the property for wildlife habitat and tree growth. The diverse landscape includes over 1/2 a mile of river frontage, a 10 acre wildlife pond, rolling hills in the meadows and steep forested terrain with more than 10 miles of multi-use trails running throughout. Our lands have long been open to local hikers, bikers and cross country skiers, we are excited to share this beautiful property with a larger community. Scout for wildlife and birds, on our private 400 acres of forests and fields. Tire yourself by hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, or cross country skiing the 10 miles of private trails. Located across the river from Riverlands State Park, just minutes from Lewiston-Auburn, Bates College, local breweries and just 2 1/2 hours from Boston. Wildlife abounds both on the property and across the river at Androscoggin Riverlands State Park.Quite often, a gentle breeze off the water will offer relief from black flies and mosquitoes, but the right bug repellent is recommended especially to fend off those pesky ticks that are so common in Maine.

100%

(36)

TreeYurt

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Cumberland, Cumberland

It started years ago my sister and I stayed in a yurt at a campground in Oregon. That was it. I was hooked so I got one. There is something magical about staying in a round structure in the trees. My love of nature and comfort drove me to create this special place to be able to share it with others. My TreeYurt is a platform built high in the trees so it essentially like a treehouse but with a yurt instead. It is located in the back part of my property surrounded by woods. In the spring there is a small stream running nearby and soon to come a bridge over to the fairy village. The land is somewhat sloped yet comfortable. There are apple orchards nearby and many hiking trails a short distance away as well as Portland a mere 15 minutes. The kitchenette has a small fridge a coffee maker a cook top with two burners pots pans utensils and kitchen towels as well a propane grill outside. There is a wood stove for heating in the winter as well as a monitor heater that makes it very cozy for chilly nights. The yurt is insulated so it is a great year round glamping adventure. I provide fire wood for the wood stove inside but the camp fire wood for the outdoor fire pit is $5 per bundle. The outhouse has a dry flush toilet and instructions at located in the yurt and out house. There is no running water although recently added an outdoor sink for the warmer months is available for use for dishwashing and a bit of cleaning up. I provide gallons of drinking water and dishwashing water for the colder months inside the yurt with dish tubs sponges and soap.

100%

(66)

The Bird's Nest-Private Tiny House

1 site · Lodging23 acres · New Vineyard, Franklin

Our tiny house is made from recycled materials and is nestled in the woods of western Maine. Trails, wildlife, campfire, woodstove, and sleeping loft.

95%

(84)

Happy Hippie Lane Maine

9 sites · Lodging, Tents3 acres · Wiscasset, Lincoln

WELCOME to Happy Hippie Lane Maine! Get your "groove" on or hang loose here on a precious little island with a big bridge just off route one in the heart of Midcoast. Hundreds of guests report the perfect balance of upbeat fun and chill time and call our place and hospitality "magic", "amazing" and "holy guacamole!". We have been hosting guests for 7 years at our eclectic, nature filled, good vibe overflowing, quirky lodging. Come and expect some interaction with hosts, to your comfort, and possibly bumping into another guest or two as you are mesmerized by the evening call of the hermit thrush on route to the campfire or spontaneously planned lobster/vegan/other bake in the back yard. Enjoy great conversation at the fire and burn a few marshmallows. Bend your ear for that haunting barred owl or coyote call. I support your relaxing beverage or two at the fire or around the property but this definitely not a party place. We will consider your pet with $35 fee and a conversation ahead of time. We have a jack russell and black cat so have to protect their interests and those of other pets and guests coming as well. Your pup must be on leash at all times unless/until we decide they are safe, others are comfortable and that it works for all to have them run free at times. Thanks! Lounge on stunning porch busy with wildlife, walk or bike a woodsy trail, nod out or challenge your son to a game of tetherball. Just minutes from busy Route One, this lovely island oasis is convenient to local favorites like Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Popham Beach, Reid State Park, the quaint towns of Bath and Damariscotta and all the midcoast has to offer. You can find yoga, pottery, preserves to explore and organic beer on the island as well. Ask Cary about signing up for a reiki session, foraging/wild edibles walk and nibble, a workshop on kombucha with your own "scobie" to go, arts and crafts to include tea cup bird feeders and solar bird baths, a boardgame, a lead road ride or a mountain bike rental to explore gravel here. Continue the "community story" by adding a line or more, add your touch to the hippie bus with a little paint....so much more. Cary loves to help you plan your day based on your interests. Ask about lobster or vegan backyard dinners (additional price), her famous blueberry muffins and fresh veggie frittatas at breakfast with enough interest and other "extras" on the property. You can rent a bicycle, enjoy a relaxing, healing Reiki session, or inquire about a workshop on a variety of nature based subjects or an art or craft activity. You will LOVE this spot. See you soon! Once you have booked, I will want to chat with you about your plans and prospective time of arrival. I do not offer meals on a regular basis, but if there is enough interest I can consider. I accept guests generally between the hours of 4-9 pm but have a fluctuating schedule like most of us. Thanks in advance for your understanding and care.

Available this weekend

95%

(345)

Hidden Valley Nature Center

8 sites · Lodging, Tents1000 acres · Newcastle, Lincoln

HIDDEN VALLEY NATURE CENTER IS 1,000 ACRES OF PROTECTED LAND IN JEFFERSON, MAINE - RICH WITH A VARIETY OF HABITAT AND TERRAIN INCLUDING OVER A MILE OF SHORE FRONT ON LITTLE DYER POND. Miles of multi-use trails great for hiking and biking, rolled and groomed XC ski trails, and several rustic huts and tent sites are waiting for you. Hidden Valley Nature Center (HVNC) is your forest. HVNC is part of Midcoast Conservancy, and a portion of the booking fees goes to support our mission to protect and restore vital lands and waters on a scale that matters. Midcoast Conservancy members receive a 40% discount. Not a member? Visit the Midcoast Conservancy website and join through the "donate" button at the top right of the home page. Your membership confirmation email will include your discount code. Thank you!

Wolves and Sounds of the Night

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Trenton, Hancock

Before you make a reservation read the description of each site. Read all of the info. Our camping section is located on the property of Kisma Preserve. Home to black bear, local mammals , and our favorite, wolves. We live here full time and have been here in one way or another for over 30 years. The sounds of the night are magical. Unleash your imagination and camp here away from the crowds you may find within the local Acadia National Park area. Close to basic necessities, and a step away from the masses. We do educational tours daily by reservation. We may allow camping in Winter months but if it is between November and May it is very important to call and find out. The shower will be unavailable in freezing months and some sites inaccessible. CALL and speak with a staff member before reserving. Self contained Adventure Vans and tent campers with Winter Gear can be accommodated. If you want to have a solid roof , screens and a fabulous view ask about reserving our Cadillac Mountain View Loft or if the idea of being naked under the stars is appealing opt for our Raw and Rough site.! Pulling in late, and leaving early for a typical Sunrise reservation.? We can also accommodate that if we know that is all you want. Traveling with your horse.? Talk to us about an Equine site. The Biker’s Bunkhouse is ideal for motorcycle travelers as it shelters both the guest and the Bike/s. Always call, we can answer all questions to get you into the right site for your style of adventuring. With each listing be sure to read all the information. If you are interested in a spontaneous camping adventure, if your luggage got lost or if you just don’t want to deal with transporting camping gear we can connect you with a local gear renter who can supply you with a basic box of necessities including a tent. Questions.? Call.

TreeYurt

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Cumberland, Cumberland

It started years ago my sister and I stayed in a yurt at a campground in Oregon. That was it. I was hooked so I got one. There is something magical about staying in a round structure in the trees. My love of nature and comfort drove me to create this special place to be able to share it with others. My TreeYurt is a platform built high in the trees so it essentially like a treehouse but with a yurt instead. It is located in the back part of my property surrounded by woods. In the spring there is a small stream running nearby and soon to come a bridge over to the fairy village. The land is somewhat sloped yet comfortable. There are apple orchards nearby and many hiking trails a short distance away as well as Portland a mere 15 minutes. The kitchenette has a small fridge a coffee maker a cook top with two burners pots pans utensils and kitchen towels as well a propane grill outside. There is a wood stove for heating in the winter as well as a monitor heater that makes it very cozy for chilly nights. The yurt is insulated so it is a great year round glamping adventure. I provide fire wood for the wood stove inside but the camp fire wood for the outdoor fire pit is $5 per bundle. The outhouse has a dry flush toilet and instructions at located in the yurt and out house. There is no running water although recently added an outdoor sink for the warmer months is available for use for dishwashing and a bit of cleaning up. I provide gallons of drinking water and dishwashing water for the colder months inside the yurt with dish tubs sponges and soap.

The Point

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Gouldsboro, Hancock

The Point is located in Gouldsboro, in Downeast Maine on the Schoodic Peninsula near the Schoodic portion of Acadia National Park on occupied Wabanaki land. The point is our home, offered to guests as a place for seekers of peace and solace to gain a better relationship and appreciation with nature in a world that has forgotten the importance and connection we all have with the planet that sustains us. A priority here for me is keeping this land pristine and respected. Our mission to save and protect our natural environment and keep it natural and wild can only be accomplished with the active mindfulness of you. We aim to prove that hipcamp can be a magical experience for private landowners and campers alike, to provide a means of temporal community and beneficial alternative to traditional campgrounds; one that does not degrade the environment and break the peace that small towns still contain. Please be mindful of the trash you generate and mindful of the noise you are making— we aim to provide seekers of peace a *quiet* time in nature. Together we are here to be an example to others of what mindful camping can look like in this changing world. Thanks for caring to come, see, explore, learn and being apart of the solution! <3 We hope to hear from you <3

Camps of the Pioneers

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Ellsworth, Hancock

Our property has a history detailed in the arrowheads and other Wabanaki artifacts found around the property. European settlers have also left clues behind of the shipbuilding industry and 1700's culture.Experience a bit of natural immersion and enjoy the endless opportunities for outdoor recreation while camping in the northern forests of Downeast Maine! We use our 6 acre property to focus on producing organically grown herbs, fruit, vegetables for local markets. We're finally making available the properties scenic brooks, forests and meadows to folks seeking to experience a truly unforgettable, countryside retreat.We’re just off the beaten path in an agricultural and fishing community on the Union River, 20 minutes drive from Acadia National Park and Mt. Desert Island. See what our other guests have had to say about their stays-“It’s an experience I would repeat with pleasure. Difficult to be short about my highlights: hearing the loon at night certainly, waking up with the quarter moon over my head, seeing the progression in changing colors of the leaves,the views from Mount Cadillac, and Beech Wood trail, Jordan Pond and the Bubbles,so many things really.” - Christine from Montpelier, France, Sept 2021."We were so at peace when we got here we just spent the rest of the day hanging at the yurt enjoying the peace and quiet today we are heading to the ocean!"- Jody from New Hampshire, July 2021."We could not have found a more idyllic place, plus it was our first experience in a yurt. We found your notes about Acadia super helpful and the yurt was just so beautiful and cozy. Having a hot bath and a little fire in the wood stove after a day of biking the Carriage Roads and swimming at Sand Beach could not have been more perfect. So glad we were at the yurt to enjoy the area and Acadia. We had an incredible stay and are hoping to come back next summer."- Jenn & Neil, August 2020.

Star Hosts in Maine

95%

(345)

Hidden Valley Nature Center

8 sites · Lodging, Tents1000 acres · Newcastle, Lincoln

HIDDEN VALLEY NATURE CENTER IS 1,000 ACRES OF PROTECTED LAND IN JEFFERSON, MAINE - RICH WITH A VARIETY OF HABITAT AND TERRAIN INCLUDING OVER A MILE OF SHORE FRONT ON LITTLE DYER POND. Miles of multi-use trails great for hiking and biking, rolled and groomed XC ski trails, and several rustic huts and tent sites are waiting for you. Hidden Valley Nature Center (HVNC) is your forest. HVNC is part of Midcoast Conservancy, and a portion of the booking fees goes to support our mission to protect and restore vital lands and waters on a scale that matters. Midcoast Conservancy members receive a 40% discount. Not a member? Visit the Midcoast Conservancy website and join through the "donate" button at the top right of the home page. Your membership confirmation email will include your discount code. Thank you!

Four Acre Woods Campground

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Deer Isle, Hancock

A beautiful island campground, thickly forested with spruce, fir, and birch, was created over 60 years ago, on Sunshine Island in Maine. Under the name, Sunshine Campground, it hosted people from all over the world and delivered the spirit and essence of this ancient, abundant land - that so many ancestors had roamed and celebrated before. As far as through the 90’s, it was open to the public, but then sat, alone, for 15 years, waiting for someone to revive it and bring it back to the world. Then one day, Caleb and Wolf met on a bus, heading south from Down East Maine, and instantly connected and joined forces. They worked together, redressing a home, in Stonington, for visitors to experience and became brothers. Eventually, the presence and opportunity of the campground caught their attention and after working out the technicalities, they worked together to bring this beautiful land and campground back to the people under its new life and name, Four Acre Woods. After opening on July 1st 2020, the land is finally back to sharing all of her beauty and spirit with the people. So, Welcome Home. Sincerely, - Four Acre Woods Caretakers

Hazelbrook Cabin at Full Plate Farm

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Round Pond, Lincoln

Raising our food and building community here in Midcoast Maine.

Slippery Rock Trails LLC

5 sites · Lodging, Tents400 acres · Greene, Androscoggin

Forty five years ago, our family started assembling 400 acres of woods and fields on the banks of the beautiful Androscoggin River. We enjoy actively managing the property for wildlife habitat and tree growth. The diverse landscape includes over 1/2 a mile of river frontage, a 10 acre wildlife pond, rolling hills in the meadows and steep forested terrain with more than 10 miles of multi-use trails running throughout. Our lands have long been open to local hikers, bikers and cross country skiers, we are excited to share this beautiful property with a larger community. Scout for wildlife and birds, on our private 400 acres of forests and fields. Tire yourself by hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, or cross country skiing the 10 miles of private trails. Located across the river from Riverlands State Park, just minutes from Lewiston-Auburn, Bates College, local breweries and just 2 1/2 hours from Boston. Wildlife abounds both on the property and across the river at Androscoggin Riverlands State Park.Quite often, a gentle breeze off the water will offer relief from black flies and mosquitoes, but the right bug repellent is recommended especially to fend off those pesky ticks that are so common in Maine.

Spectacle Island, Damariscotta Lake

1 site · Tent1 acre · Newcastle, Lincoln

The sister islands, shaped like a pair of spectacles as their name suggests, offer opportunities for swimming, blueberry picking, camping, and general exploration. Although the islands make up a small portion of the 1000+ acres protected by Midcoast Conservancy in the Damariscotta Lake Watershed, they are among the most popular. The islands have long been a gathering spot for local families to swim. The islands were donated to Midcoast Conservancy in 2000 and are now forever protected. When you reserve your spot on Spectacle Island, know that it comes with a healthy dose of day use during peak summer weekends.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Camden Hills State Park

Camden, Maine

100%

(7)

Cobscook Bay State Park

White Mountain National Forest

Bartlett, New Hampshire

100%

(2)

Allagash Wilderness Waterway

Ashland, Maine

100%

(2)

Rangeley Lake State Park

Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land

Camping in Maine guide

There's much more to Maine than lighthouses, lobster shacks, and sandy beaches. The northernmost state in New England packs in surprising variety, from the rocky islands and seaside resorts of the Atlantic shore to the forests and mountains of the Appalachian Mountains. Campers can take their pick of 32 state parks and one epic national park, filled with lakes, woodlands, and beaches to hike, bike, climb, and kayak. "Vacationland" pulls in the summer crowds, especially along the coast, but our pick is fall, when the northern highlands are ablaze with foliage.

Where to Go

Aroostook & the Highlands

Maine’s mountainous north is the stuff that hiker’s bucket lists are made of. The sprawling wilderness of Baxter State Park is the starting point of the epic Appalachian Trail and home to Maine’s highest peak—the 5,267-foot Mount Katahdin. Miles of hiking trails run through the highlands, along with some of the state’s best snowmobiling and cross-country skiing trails. To get on the water, head to Moosehead Lake, or try paddling and backcountry tent camping along the Allagash Wilderness Waterway.

Maine Lakes & Mountains

The hills and valleys of western Maine are peppered with high peaks and hundreds of glacial lakes, affording plenty of opportunities for a back-to-nature camping experience. Drive the High Peaks Scenic Byway for some of the most spectacular views, enjoy family camping at Sebago Lake State Park, or check into an RV park near Bethel, Naples, or Lewiston. In winter, rent a cozy ski chalet and hit the ski resorts of Sugar Loaf, Shawnee Peak, and Sunday River.

Southern Maine Coast

When summer temperatures soar, some of the most popular Maine campgrounds and beaches are found along the southwest shore. Head to the beach towns of Kennebunkport, Freeport, and Portland for old-fashioned seaside fun; go boating or kayaking around Casco Bay; then snag an RV site or cabin rental at the oceanfront campground in Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park.

Downeast & Acadia

Maine’s only national park, Acadia National Park, is the headline act of DownEast, the state’s rugged and rocky southeastern coast. Opt to stay on the mainland at Bar Harbor and head over to admire the park’s historic lighthouses and ocean views, or choose from multiple camping areas on the islands. Further north, the 15 coastal parklands of Cobscook Shores have picnic tables, boat launches, and backcountry camping sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Maine is an excellent destination for camping, offering a diverse range of landscapes and outdoor experiences. From coastal campgrounds to lush forests, the state boasts numerous public and private camping options for both tent and RV campers. Maine's natural beauty, including Acadia National Park, Baxter State Park, and the famous Appalachian Trail, provide ample opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, canoeing, and fishing. To explore some of the best camping options in Maine, check out Hipcamp. Keep in mind that the camping season in Maine is typically from May to October, with peak season falling between June and August. During the off-season, some campgrounds may be closed or have limited services available.

Yes, there is free camping in Maine, particularly in the state's vast public lands, such as the North Maine Woods and the Downeast Lakes Land Trust. These areas offer primitive, dispersed camping opportunities with limited or no facilities. Keep in mind that you should always practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment when camping in these areas. Additionally, some locations may require a small fee or permit for access, so it's essential to research specific areas before your trip. For more information on camping in Maine, visit Hipcamp.

No, it is not legal to camp anywhere in Maine. Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds, state parks, and national forests. In some cases, you can camp on private land with the landowner's permission. Wild camping, also known as dispersed or primitive camping, is allowed in some areas of Maine, such as the White Mountain National Forest and the Appalachian Trail. However, it is essential to follow the specific rules and regulations for each area where you plan to camp. You can find more information about camping in Maine on Hipcamp.

Boondocking, also known as dry camping or dispersed camping, refers to camping without any hookups or amenities, typically in remote areas or on public lands. In Maine, boondocking usually means camping on public lands, such as national forests or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas, where you can camp for free or with minimal fees. Boondocking in Maine allows campers to enjoy the state's natural beauty, solitude, and wildlife while being self-sufficient and leaving no trace. Some popular boondocking areas in Maine include the North Maine Woods and remote parts of Downeast Maine. It's essential to follow Leave No Trace principles and local regulations when boondocking to ensure these pristine areas are preserved for future generations.

For the best fall colors in Maine, plan your visit during late September to early October. This timing typically coincides with peak foliage in various parts of the state, including Acadia National Park and the Maine Highlands. For the most accurate fall foliage predictions, check out Hipcamp's interactive foliage map.