The best lakeside camping in Maine

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If calm waters on sparkling shores is your ideal destination, consider Maine lake camping. In the northernmost part of the state, visitors can escape to Baxter State Park near Mount Katahdin, where the remote wilderness lends itself to moose sightings. Also to the north, Moosehead Lake is a favorite lake camping spot, as the region offers boating, fishing, hiking, and beaches. Elsewhere, campers can stay in the Belgrade Lakes Region near Augusta, or consider a canoe-in tentsite in the Rangeley Lake region. Here, islands offer private camping sites perfect for a summer vacation. Want to enjoy the coast as well as the lakes? Head to Downeast Maine, where lake campsites sit near Bar Harbor in Acadia National Park. Southern Maine has many lakeside campsites as well, with endless outdoor activities at Sebago Lake State Park, not too far from Portland, Ogunquit, Kennebunk, Sanford, and York. With abundant waterways, Maine is the perfect place to camp on a lake, whether you're in an RV, a tent, or a cabin.

95% (4.5K) 1,140 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Maine

Four Acre Woods Island Campground

1. Four Acre Woods Island Campground

97%
(1839)
Deer Isle, ME · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Tucked among spruce, fir, and birch on Sunshine Island in Deer Isle–Stonington, Four Acre Woods began more than 60 years ago as a small, family-run campground known as Sunshine Campground. Travelers from across the world visited this quiet island forest, drawn to its raw beauty and the peaceful energy that generations before us had loved and cared for. The campground eventually closed in the 1990s and sat untouched for over 15 years—its trails, clearings, and old campsites slowly reclaimed by the woods. The land waited, quietly, for someone to bring it back to life. In the years that followed, Caleb, a longtime local operator on the island, took interest in the property. Recognizing both its history and its potential to offer people a deeper experience of Deer Isle’s natural beauty, he began the process of carefully restoring and reopening the land. Working season by season, Caleb rebuilt the sites, added new infrastructure, re-established utilities, and designed a campground that honors the land’s roots while offering a comfortable, modern, and nature-forward experience for today’s guests. In July 2020, the property reopened under a new name: Four Acre Woods. Today, it blends the spirit of the original Sunshine Campground with thoughtful stewardship, simple comforts, and a deep respect for the forest that surrounds it. Visitors once again gather under the birches and spruces—sharing campfires, slow mornings, quiet nights, and the timeless island calm that makes this land so special. So— Welcome Home. Sincerely, The Caretakers of Four Acre Woods
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The Point

2. The Point

99%
(657)
Gouldsboro, ME · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
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Slippery Rock Trails LLC

3. Slippery Rock Trails LLC

100%
(1114)
Greene, ME · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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Lily Bay State Park

4. Lily Bay State Park

100%
(4)
State park in Maine · 91 sites
Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Lily Bay State Park.
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White Mountain National Forest

5. White Mountain National Forest

97%
(87)
National forest in New Hampshire · 833 sites
Find a variety of hiking trails, camping experiences, and scenic views in this New England forest.
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Mac's Camping Area

6. Mac's Camping Area

Poland, ME · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Mac's Camping Area stands out as a unique family-run campground, established by the McDonald family in 1970 when the owner's grandfather cleared the land with a vision of making camping accessible and enjoyable for all families. Known affectionately as Mac, his legacy continues to thrive in a beautiful, fun, and affordable environment that welcomes both families and their furry friends. At Mac's, we prioritize exceptional customer service and strive to meet the needs of our campers. Enjoy a day at our private beach where you can swim, soak up the sun, or build sandcastles. For those who love water activities, take your boat out on the lake or cast a line from our dock—there's no shortage of adventures waiting for you! Our campground features a playground, horseshoes, and a variety of family-friendly activities that guarantee fun for both kids and adults. Additionally, our recreation hall is stocked with board games, DVDs, and more for your entertainment. For RV enthusiasts, our spacious sites measure at least 40' x 40' and come equipped with 30-amp hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay with stunning lake views. Each of the 30 sites includes a fire ring and picnic table for your convenience. We also offer three tent sites, all located right next to the lake.
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The Howling Woods

7. The Howling Woods

96%
(273)
Southwest Harbor, ME · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
A mystical 7 acres of mossy woods on the edge of Acadia National Park. Listen for coyotes, owls and even loons on the lake. We are just a 1.5 mile walk from the border of the Park. Just a short drive from the most popular spots. Yet even at the height of summer, it’s really peaceful here on the quiet side of the island. Sometimes called the wild side :)
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Hidden Valley Nature Center

8. Hidden Valley Nature Center

95%
(547)
Jefferson, ME · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Midcoast Conservancy’s Hidden Valley is 1,000 acres of protected land in Jefferson, Maine. It is rich with a variety of habitat and terrain, including over a mile of shorefront on Little Dyer Pond, nearly 25 miles of multi-use trails are great for hiking, birding, and exploring. Try our rolled and groomed cross country ski trails in the winter. Hidden Valley is a Community Forest, part of over 16,000 acres protected and stewarded by Midcoast Conservancy, a non-profit. A portion of the booking fees supports the organization’s mission to protect and restore vital lands and waters in midcoast Maine on a scale that matters. NOTE: ALL of the cabins and campsites are walk-in only. There is no overnight camping allowed in the parking lot.
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Big Moose Inn Cabins & Campground

9. Big Moose Inn Cabins & Campground

94%
(44)
Millinocket, ME · 58 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Big Moose Inn Cabins & CampgroundIrving O. Hunt and his brother Lyman built some rough camps on Millinocket Lake before they became interested in the Nesowadnehunk Stream region. Whether or not their old camps were at the same site as the present camps on Millinocket Lake we do not know.The Millinocket Lake Camps, known today as Big Moose Inn, are located on a narrow spit of land separating Ambejejus Lake and Millinocket Lake. Before a dam controlled Ambajejus’ water level, it was possible to pole up the short stream from Millinocket Lake into Ambejejus.Fred Spencer build the camps, originally named Camp Eureka, in 1899 or 1900 and ran them with his brother. With the founding of Millinocket only a few years earlier and lumbering roads nearing Katahdin, the two lakes became more easily accessible. Camp Eureka was advertised as the only camp reachable by both boat (from Norcross) and road (from Millinocket). In 1905, the rate was $1.50 per day, meals included. Spencer also claimed the lakes had no flies or mosquitoes during spring and summer- a phenomenon caused by the way winds blow across the lakes, which makes it difficult for insects to gain a foothold.The camps’ name changed to Camp Spencer and later to Spencer’s Camps. Around 1929 the lease was transferred to Elmer Woodworth, who lived with his wife on a nearby island while they operated the camps. Elmer, a well-known guide, trapped over the winter, and his wife served as the camp cook. The couple soon renamed the camps Millinocket Lake Camps and Trading Post. They also maintained an outlying camp on Sandy Stream for their guests. In 1941, a major fire broke out in the area. The Woodworths saved the camps by wetting them down, but lost their island home when a stray spark jumped the cove. There is some evidence that, for a short time, a gentleman named Johnny Given either held the lease or managed the camps for the Woodworths. Except for that brief change the Woodworths operated the camps for many years until they passed the lease on to their son Ray, who ran them with his wife Muriel.In 1977, the lease was transferred to Bob and Frederica (“Teddy”) Boynton, who in 1981 sold the trading post to Erwin and Maureen Bacon. The Boyntons retained the sporting camp operation and later added a public restaurant. Teddy renamed the camps Big Moose Inn. Bob and his son Bruce made many renovations to the camps, while Teddy decorated and furnished them. The Boynton Family has remained involved in the success of the inn and restaurant. After Teddy’s death in 1991, management passed to Bruce and his sister Laurie, but Bob and other family members are still very involved.The dam separates the flowages of the two lakes. Millinocket Lake is about eight feet above its original level, and Ambajejus is now some 21 feet above its original level. Today several West Branch rafting companies make the inn their seasonal center of operations.At Big Moose, we bring you a rare blend of friendly service and lovely surroundings that successfully reflects our unique personality. Located on Millinocket Lake, Big Moose is the closest full service accommodations to Baxter State Park. Our central Katahdin Region lodging offers easy access to many of Baxter State Park's magnificent natural resources.Our Katahdin lodging packages consist of inn rooms, suites, lakefront and trailside cabins, and campgrounds. Fredericka's restaurant offers casual fine dining between two lakes while the Loose Moose Bar & Grille offers comfort food after a long day outdoors.-Dine in our newly remodeled dining room with friends and family. Our authentic solid oak tables and chairs make this room adaptable to any decor you choose when hosting weddings, reunions or anniversaries. A great place for corporate retreats and workshops. Our new side dining room offers intimacy and privacy for gatherings of 25 or less. Call to reserve it for your special celebration.•Big Moose Vacation Packages-Big Moose selects the best businesses to deliver a complete vacation package to you. We team with local and regional experts to offer guided tours, photography workshops, guided fishing trips and more. Choose one of the complete all inclusive packages from the list on the left and you will be assured a wilderness outdoor vacation that you won't soon forget. Want a weekend trip to Maine all your own, checkout the "Guides & Tours" section under Maine Adventures. Find great outdoor activities to do or take a guided excursion from one of the many knowledgeable tour guides who cater to Big Moose guests. The Big Moose Inn's location affords our guest many opportunities to enjoy the Maine outdoors. It is only a short distance from Baxter State Park and the North Maine Woods, where our guests enjoy the recreational adventures they come to the Katahdin region for. Explore the area by yourself or join a guided tour looking for wildlife or hike into remote wilderness areas with a Registered Maine Guide. The Penobscot River offers many recreational opportunities from fishing, canoeing to whitewater rafting.Our PoliciesPets: Dogs are welcome in our campground. However, we do not have any pet-friendly cabins. Pets are not permitted inside the Inn. Please follow these rules and expectations:• Pet must be on a leash at all times• Pet must not be left unattended because of the summer heat, barking, and possible damage.• Must pick up after your pet.If you would rather board your pet contact Katahdin Kritters Pet Resort - 207-746-8040Tax: All rates are subject to 9% Maine sales tax.PLEASE NO SMOKING IN CABINS OR INN ROOMS/SUITES, FINES MAY OCCUR.Cancellations: As an independently owned and operated inn, we do not overbook our accommodations - each reservation is made for a specfic date, accomdation, number of guests and we are expecting you! Cancellations and changes made with short notice impact us significally. We do sympathize, however, we must maintain our business policy due to limited season and accommodation demands.Prior to 30 days of arrival, full refund; cancellation within 30 days, no refund/forfeiture of deposit. No adjustments or refunds for early departures. Please note: There are no exceptions to our cancellation policy whether it be for reasons of sickness, family emergency or weather. Check-in: 4pm-10pmCheck-out: 10am.Cabin guests must bring their own towels, or they may call in advance to arrange for towels to be rented.
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Moosehead Lake

10. Moosehead Lake

100%
(3)
Park in Maine · 69 sites
Moosehead Lake: A Natural Gem with Endless Adventure and Scenic Campsites.
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Allagash Wilderness Waterway

11. Allagash Wilderness Waterway

100%
(2)
Park in Maine · 81 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Allagash Wilderness Waterway.
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Rangeley Lake State Park

12. Rangeley Lake State Park

100%
(2)
State park in Maine · 52 sites
Discover Rangeley Lake State Park's scenic beauty and outdoor adventures.
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Scraggly Lake Public Reserved Land

13. Scraggly Lake Public Reserved Land

100%
(2)
Park in Maine · 16 sites
Scraggly Lake Public Reserved Land: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.
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Blueberry Land Tent Platforms

14. Blueberry Land Tent Platforms

96%
(158)
Pembroke, ME · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
We have four raised platforms, accessible by car, each with a canvas-covered A-frame Each platform is nested in their own private setting around the edges of our 12-acre organic blueberry barren. All four platforms are fully screened-in, with stylish canvas-covered timberframes and circular red doors. These canvas tents are relatively bug-proof and waterproof; you do not need to bring a tent! You do need to bring your own bedding. ***If you are particularly sensitive to bugs, you may want to bring your own tent (to put inside our tent) or a mosquito net. This is the Northeast during the summertime, we cannot ensure there will be no bugs. Blueberry Land is part of Smithereen Farm, but is located around the corner from our Home Farm on Youngs Cove Road, near Reversing Falls. This is an off grid, rustic site with only a port-a-potty. If you need to use any other amenities, you are welcome to use the WIFI, fill your water bottles, charge your electric vehicle and buy supplies at the Smithereen Farmstore (12 Little Falls Road, Pembroke). We sell cold drinks, beer and wine, frozen fish, meat, our own fruit popsicles, also organic veggies, honey, products from many local and Maine farms, camping supplies, ready to eat food, snacks, chocolates and even fresh baked cookies. Park at the store, and then jump into the Pennamaquan River (two dams, a rope swing) to cool off after exploring the town. Note: there is no potable water at the site, you will need to bring a vessel and fill up in town. There are beautiful walking, biking and canoeing opportunities in every direction—check out Cobscook Shores, Downeast Coastal Conservancy trails by Reversing Falls, Maine Coast Heritage trails on the Bold Coast and at Sipps Bay, Nature Conservancy trail at Hersey Point, Shackford head at Eastport, and of course much more on Campobello. Blueberry bushes are low, native, fruit-growing, covered in flowers in spring and then berries in summer, turning bright bright red in the fall when kissed by frost. Our blueberries are certified organic by MOFGA and surrounded by birch, fir, spruce and flowering perennial beds to improve insect habitat. Please DO NOT DRIVE/ tread ON THE BERRIES, they are food that we harvest and sell! Park in the parking lot, three sites are immediately visible, the fourth site is a further drive down the road, past the port-o-potty, in the back field, to the left. Low hung vehicles beware! If in doubt park in the parking lot. Upon booking, we will send you a PDF welcome packet filled with helpful information about the farm, local sites to see, and a comprehensive list of our recommendations. We will say it again: remember to prepare for MOSQUITOES in summer! We really recommend you approach Washington County as an opportunity to PICNIC! The "dining out" options are limited. Bring a pocketknife, a frying pan, a big cooler for butter and milk with ice packs so you can pick up local crabmeat (Betty's Crabmeat) and mayo and salads (Smithereen Farmstore) and eggs from ends of driveways, bring a cutting board—a big water jug, a camp stove/kettle, more warm socks than you think you need... and a sense of adventure! We have a EAT DOWNEAST digital map, guidebook and brochure at the Farmstore you can pick up a copy or download from our website. Thank you for taking the time to support supporting local farmers and food businesses of Washington County! We wish you a pleasant stay all the way DOWNEAST!
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River Run Off-grid Cabins & Camping

15. River Run Off-grid Cabins & Camping

95%
(11)
Clinton, ME · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Enjoy nature and the peaceful sounds of the Sebasticook river. With 40 private acres of forest and trails to explore and 3,200 foot frontage on the Sebasticook river, this is an ideal setting for a peaceful offgrid retreat located just 10minutes from town. Excellent bird watching, kayaking, hiking, and fishing with well maintained trails that loop around the property. River views, and trails that wrap around the sides of the property take you on a peaceful stroll around the river bend. This property has a well maintained Amish built outhouse, with provided ecofriendly toilet paper, and wood chips for composting. We have Picnic tables, lawn games, grills, fire pits, kayaks, and more. Excellent cell signal and easy drive up spots. *Kayak rentals and firewood are optional add ons for your stay.*
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Wild Soul Serenity Campground

16. Wild Soul Serenity Campground

100%
(19)
Waltham, ME · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
*Events-Sept 12th Annual Wellness Fundraiser- Raffle, food, fire, music, games! Enjoy the festivities and a 2nt stay minimum with a discount. Beach tenting opens end of June. Founded in 2024, Wild Soul Serenity (WSS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping others heal, reconnect, and thrive through the restorative power of nature and holistic wellness. Our mission is to create a sustainable sanctuary for Veterans, First Responders, creatives, and the broader community to experience mental, emotional, and spiritual renewal. WSS was born from a desire to serve and support others while building a sustainable, passive residual income model that reinvests into the land and the people it serves. Nestled in the wilderness near Acadia National Park, our off-the-grid campground merges rustic camping on a lake. If available we offer massage therapy, yoga, energy work, and bodywork, (to name a few) in three ways: 1. When campers request private sessions during their stay. 2. When wellness professionals host ongoing services onsite. 3. During WSS-hosted events that feature healing arts practitioners. Our event space will be available for rental and collaboration with local businesses, nonprofits, and community groups—so long as their purpose aligns with our values: promoting wellness, building connection, and supporting mental health through holistic means and nature's tranquility. Each year we expand on this campground until it's full vision is a reality. For 2026 we have a few campsites, some have platforms, some without. The plan this year is to add a cabin, woodshed, bathroom and work on the trail system. Each campsite has a buffer of vegetation with the lake as a view, a fire pit and space to have more than one tent. There will be a camp style toilet. There's no running water, not much cell service, no electricity. Park at the main road and bring your camping items into the woods. Your site will be labeled. Trash in, trash out. Firewood for sale, camping gear for rent. Canoe and walk the beach (if low levels). Dog friendly: must be friendly, on a leash and please be mindful of dogs digging. Here we value the land, it's sanctuary and soil erosion prevention along the shoreline. Friends and Family Market on rte 1A is the closest resupply.
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Earth Paradise Eco-Retreat

17. Earth Paradise Eco-Retreat

97%
(17)
Stoneham, ME · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are off the beaten path in the forest near the White Mountain National Forest. A 6 to 8 minute hike from your site gets you to a private lake. We have two local waterfalls only 2 miles away. Drive back out to 5 Kezars road. Take a right on the paved road. It will turn back into dirt. Keep on this road until you see a beautiful stone house on your left. Keep going just up the hill and you will see a right turn into the woods where you can park. There are no signs for Kezar gorge. Hike towards the sound of the falls. There is a small cave under the falls you can climb up into if you are a strong swimmer. There is a second set of falls if you hike down the river. A most magical spot for sure. There is a beautiful hike to a mountain lookout view of an amazing panoramic of lakes and mountains including Mt Washington and Pleasant Ski mountain right from your site. Here is a link for all Greater Lovell Land trust trails: https://www.gllt.org/five-kezars-reserve Virginia lake is in the White Mountain National forest and is only 6 miles ( a ten minute drive away) Sometimes you have to hike in a bit to get to the beach. Very private. Shallow beach is great for children and dogs. Keewayden Lake Dam is a fun place to swim in a local lake. Only an 8 minute drive Keoka lake has a nice beach with a dock to swim too. !0 minute drive Covered Bridge in Bethel Screw Ager falls at Graftons Notch State park 45 min drive Ski resorts nearby are Sunday River, Mt Abrams and Pleasant Mt
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Private Waterfront Cabin/Campsites

18. Private Waterfront Cabin/Campsites

98%
(62)
Palmyra, ME · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Black Owned. Female Owned. Queer Friendly. Cannabis Friendly. Animal Friendly. Child Friendly. Earth Friendly. Restore inner peace as you immerse your senses in our tranquil 170 acre landscape of Central Maine woods and waterways, located directly off the ITS 84 Rec Trail– 5 min from I95 (exit 150). Once home to a thriving primitive campground, Nature’s Way, nestled along a private half-mile on Douglas Pond, we take pride in retaining that original camp charm while supplying upgrades and necessities to ensure your stay is enjoyable and memorable! Local trails provide great opportunities for hikers, bikers and snowmobilers to get out and play. Easy access to I95 provides a home base for your other Maine adventures and events. We are proud to be stewards of this land, recognized as the Wabanaki Territory in origin. Our sacred space is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including songbirds, rare native bird species, deer, and unique and distinct fish populations. We are additionally proud to be cannabis caregivers here in Maine, devoted to living soil-grown, rare genetics and terpene-rich strains that express the medicinal power of the plants, particularly pertaining to the endocannabinoid system’s function within the human body. Outpost: Our outpost is located ½ way to the cabin/campsite area and across from the event field. Offerings rotate seasonally to include in-house-made goods and services. We are also happy to offer cannabis caregiver services on site with a diverse selection of small batch flower and other THC/CBD products to enjoy while finding your Peace Of Maine. We occasionally host unique events and services that will be announced on our social media pages and may be requested for small groups with prior arrangements made. These options include, but are not limited to, healing sessions incorporating massage, natural aesthetics and energy work, customized ritual and ceremony, and multimodal movement and meditation offerings. WE DO NOT allow hunting or foraging on the property. WE DO allow fishing.
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Hazelbrook Cabin at Full Plate Farm

19. Hazelbrook Cabin at Full Plate Farm

100%
(121)
Round Pond, ME · 1 site
Raising our food and building community here in Midcoast Maine.
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Moreyville Camp Ground

20. Moreyville Camp Ground

100%
(30)
Deer Isle, ME · 1 site · Tent, RV
Camp site has room for a couple of tents or one large RV, bathroom in main house for cleaning up. Adults and kids 8yrs old and up.Two acres of private property, with access to my family's shore, which has it's own private cove, one hr before high tide for kyaking. Ten min. walk to near by park. 2.2 Miles back to Rt 15 to access the entire Deer Isle Area. 5 mins to the closes grocery store, post office, bank, gas. 15 mins to Stonington Harbor, for Resturants with Fresh Maine seafood, and the mail boat to Isle le Hou. Pet friendly. Sight closes down October 1st til May 30th
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