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The best river, stream, or creek camping in Maine

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Looking to get away from it all and immerse yourself in nature? Look no further than camping in Maine with a river. With over 700 options to choose from, Hipcamp offers a wide variety of campsites that cater to your activity/terrain preference. Whether you're an avid hiker, biker, or surfer, there's something for everyone. Discover hidden gems like Slippery Rock Trails LLC (347 reviews), WildWalkWays at Eastern Plant (190 reviews), and Camps of the Pioneers (203 reviews). With popular amenities such as showers, potable water, and pet-friendly options, you'll have everything you need for a memorable camping experience. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready to explore the great outdoors in Maine!

96% (4.8K) 1,427 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Maine

The Howling Woods

1. The Howling Woods

96%
(303)
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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Big Moose Inn Cabins & Campground

2. Big Moose Inn Cabins & Campground

92%
(76)
Millinocket, ME · 57 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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Flatrock on the River

3. Flatrock on the River

99%
(153)
Winterport, ME · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Quiet getaway that will allow you to forget about the craziness of life. 28 aches with a beautiful river running along the edge. Kayaking, swimming, fishing and more right on site. Arcadia national park only and hours' drive. Fort Knox only 15 minutes away. Great salmon and bass fishing in Swan Lake only 20 mins away.
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Camden Hills State Park

4. Camden Hills State Park

100%
(7)
State park in Maine · 107 sites
Discover the scenic vistas and outdoor adventures at Camden Hills State Park.
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Moosehead Lake

5. Moosehead Lake

100%
(3)
Park in Maine · 69 sites
Moosehead Lake: A Natural Gem with Endless Adventure and Scenic Campsites.
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Magnificent View Blueberry Hilltop

6. Magnificent View Blueberry Hilltop

99%
(192)
Union, ME · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Natural wild blueberry field, just as it has been for eons. 270 degree view of hills, fields, lakes and Mountains. Solitude, yet only 15 mins to Camden and Rockland. ECOTOURISM - As seen in the May 2021 issue of MAINE the Magazine! Camp, Hike, take Photos and Pick Wild Maine Blueberries! Private quiet SINGLE SPOT on a lovely hilltop wild blueberry field with stunning 270 degree views! Solitude without being remote, 2 miles from Rt 17 (past Union Country Club 9 hole golf course). 3 miles from downtown Union (featuring 3 Convenience stores, 1 Grocery store, 2 Banks with ATMs, 2 Restaurants, Pizza, Gas and a Laundromat) and only 12 miles to Camden and Rockland. Good Cellular signal. Good access road for your RV. The amazing views include Owl's Head lighthouse and Matinicus island in the very far distance, sunrise over Ragged Mountain and the Camden hills. To the north the Dixmont, and Bangor areas are visible. Watch the sunset to the west over Sennebec pond and Appleton ridge. To the southwest Mt. Washington may be just visible on a clear day. 75 acres of open fields and woodlands to explore at your leisure. Among the hidden gems you might find are the original homestead foundation, a vernal brook, a distant field that is totally secluded and an oak tree with a heart! Deer, wild Turkeys, Hawks, Owls and Bald Eagles are frequent visitors. You may even stumble upon wild raspberries and blackberries, if they're in season. The small town of Union also hosts the Maine Wild Blueberry Festival. The Lobster Festival is nearby in Rockland every August. No other campers are visible from your site - so you get breathtaking beauty all for yourself - and those with you! Note: Part of the land is a working Wild Blueberry farm and as such, on rare occasions, the quiet is interrupted to care for the crop. Should that take place we will credit you with a free day's stay. Note: No Trespassing signs are posted for the farm operation - these Do Not apply to Hipcampers! Please drive past them through the open gate to the site. Pack in and pack out! The 2 dumpsters along the main road are PRIVATE and are camera monitored. The owners require a $50 fee for unauthorized use, so please don't use them without permission.
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Cabin Creek Farm

7. Cabin Creek Farm

99%
(122)
Cranberry Isles, ME · 9 sites
Welcome to Cabin Creek Farm located on Great Cranberry Island Maine. The beauty and tranquility of our offshore Maine island are what many visitors hope to experience but few actually do. If you're hoping to exhale and slow down while being surrounded by nature, and quiet, we're your perfect spot! We are located just offshore from Mount Desert Island home to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor and other nearby towns. Catch a passenger ferry (BOAT) (sorry can't bring vehicles) out to Great Cranberry Island, Maine from: Northeast Harbor, (search: Beal and Bunker Ferry) for exact schedules. OR FROM Manset/Southwest Harbor. (search: Cranberry Cove Ferry) for exact schedules. (Note: Ferry reservations are NOT needed just get aboard and you pay once underway. You can view exact ferry departure times on individual camp descriptions.) If arriving outside ferry schedules Cadillac Water Taxi can bring you to Great Cranberry Island. Call Blair at 207-801-1898 to make a reservation. Our camp is located on a quaint pristine, offshore Maine island. We are an easy 1 mile walk from the ferry landing once you arrive. We have a shared use golf cart for our guests to get to and from camp! Great Cranberry Island is a beautiful peaceful place where the pace of life slows, nature abounds and the stars are bright. There is a small well stocked general store,, a museum, cafe and miles of pristine trails and rocky beaches to explore. Bicycles can be brought on the passenger ferries and are a great way to get around and further explore the island. Our camp is on the site of our former organic farm called Cabin Creek Farm overlooking the ocean (a tidal estuary called the pool), where we grew flowers, herbs and veggies. You can even kayak directly to us at high tide. The sites are a combo of a mixed manicured deciduous and conifer forest and open spaces with ocean views. "Once you have slept on an island, you'll never be quite the same!"
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Green Apple Grove

8. Green Apple Grove

96%
(12)
Ellsworth, ME · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape to Green Apple Grove, a peaceful Maine retreat where you can relax and reconnect with nature. Nestled in a quiet country setting near Ellsworth and within easy reach of Acadia National Park, this cozy campsite is the perfect base for exploring the area's scenic coastlines, charming towns, and outdoor adventures. Spend your days hiking, sightseeing, or simply unwinding by the campfire under Maine's starry skies. Keeping to the properties origins, we've arranged sites among the woodlands and apple trees of the early farming community who's artifacts and history still can be found here along the coastal inlets of Downeast Maine.
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Camp Cochran Webb River Carthage Me

9. Camp Cochran Webb River Carthage Me

98%
(279)
Carthage, ME · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful campsites right on the Webb River. DO NOT USE COORDINATES PROVIDED BY HIPCAMP. Use the address provided. We are on RT 142 in CARTHAGE, ME. Pitch your tent ON the bank of the Webb River In CARTHAGE, MAINE Campsite layered with a thick bed of sawdust, a swimming hole, and a great river view/sounds. ALL sites have fire pits, picnic tables, trash cans and recycleable cans. Mt Blue State park is about 5 miles, lots of great hiking trails within 10-15 miles. New in 2026 we have 2 electrical and water hook ups.
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Allagash Wilderness Waterway

10. Allagash Wilderness Waterway

100%
(2)
Park in Maine · 81 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Allagash Wilderness Waterway.
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Scraggly Lake Public Reserved Land

11. 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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Penobscot River Corridor

12. Penobscot River Corridor

100%
(1)
Park in Maine · 61 sites
Discover the Penobscot River Corridor: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.
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Sebago Lake State Park

13. Sebago Lake State Park

86%
(8)
State park in Maine · 250 sites
Sebago Lake State Park: A Haven for Year-Round Outdoor Fun.
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Continuous Harmony Farm Camp

14. Continuous Harmony Farm Camp

93%
(142)
Lincolnville, ME · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Continuous Harmony Farm is located on the north side of Camden Hills State Park. When this area was originally settled, the farm was located on the "highway" from Camden to seasonal pastures in Lincolnville. The trails leading to the park still go by the old foundations that dotted the old Government Road from Camden. The farm has 46 acres of flowing pasture, hardwood forest and flower and vegetable gardens. At the heart of the property is a large farm pond that has been used to water livestock for generations. We hope you can visit us soon! Our farm abuts Camden Hills State Park, offering dozens of miles of trails for hiking and biking. Farm activities include looking after our flock of Katahdin sheep, laying hens, bee hives and vegetable and flower gardens. Activities nearby include rock climbing, boating, horseback riding, paddle boarding and swimming.Learn more about this land:Continuous Harmony Farm Campsite is located under a great old white ash tree beside a large farm pond on 46 acres of sheep meadow, forest and fields. Our farm abuts Camden Hills State Park, offering dozens of miles of trails for hiking and biking. Farm activities include looking after our flock of Katahdin sheep, laying hens, bee hives and vegetable and flower gardens. Activities nearby include rock climbing, boating,, horseback riding, paddle boarding and swimming.
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Tir na nOg Farm

15. Tir na nOg Farm

98%
(399)
Pownal, ME · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging
Highland cattle graze at the forest's edge on our Celtic-heritage farm: a gentle retreat with options for woodland wandering, farm-fresh breakfasts (weekdays only, must be requested one week in advance), and campfires complete with traditional Gaelic music! Our 40-acre farm includes heritage-breed animals, organic gardens, and over 30 acres of conservation woodlands. We favor scythes over tractors--your stay will be quiet and fume-free! Bradbury Mountain and several trail networks are nearby, along with rivers, ocean beaches, and an excellent locavore food scene. Since the early 1800s, this land on the edge of Chandler Brook has nourished bodies and spirits alike. Sloping pastures meet well-managed woodlands, making this a haven for both humans and wildlife. Since the 1980s, we have worked to restore the soil and make a "hand-built" life as farmers using pre-industrial organic methods. We maintain pollinator habitats, tend an fledgling orchard of heirloom-variety fruit trees, and conserve rare heritage-breed animals, including Tamworth pigs and Scottish Highland Cattle. Our shared love for Celtic folk culture has blended naturally with our love of sustainable agriculture to create Tir na nOg Farm. Today, the work of restoration continues with the help of farm partners, family, friends, WWOOFers, and other volunteers. This land is already better than we found it, but we hope it will remain a gathering-ground of culture and agriculture, tradition and innovation for generations to come.
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Slippery Rock Trails LLC

16. Slippery Rock Trails LLC

100%
(1181)
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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BrandiLee Woods at the Woolley farm

17. BrandiLee Woods at the Woolley farm

99%
(59)
East Baldwin, ME · 2 sites
We are a Hobby farm located on a peaceful and remote 15 acres of fields and 20 acres of woods. We raise Jacob sheep and have 4 gentle Haflinger ponies as well as Chickens, dogs and cats. There are walking and horseback riding trails through the woods. Guests here can learn about raising and caring for sheep and horses. . We also offer inexpensive outdoor weddings at our beautiful gazebo in the woods.
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Porcupine Creek Rustic Camping

18. Porcupine Creek Rustic Camping

99%
(83)
Liberty, ME · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Porcupine Creek Rustic Camping sits in the middle of our 50 acre Tree Farm. Campsites sit at the edge of small open fields are are spaced to give you the feeling of having your own space. We currently have two camping sites a Tree House and Camping Tent. The camping-related structures on our property are built with wood harvested from our tree farm and milled on-site. Deer regularly visit, the birds are constant company and other critters roam. Accommodations include rest rooms, shower rooms (sites come with solar shower bags) fire pits and campfire wood. Please see our website for up-to-date information.
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Earth Paradise Eco-Retreat

19. Earth Paradise Eco-Retreat

98%
(27)
Stoneham, ME · 4 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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Magical Mountain River retreat

20. Magical Mountain River retreat

98%
(234)
Newry, ME · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Scars in the polished granite streambed tell the story of saw mills from the 19th century. Not far from the foundation of one of the more established farmsteads of the era, this campsite is tucked away from the road down by the rushing Bull Branch of the Sunday River. Whether you bake on the rocks after dipping, or toss a fly in a quiet pool, the river will soothe your soul. Explore endless mountains streams, trails to the Appalachian Trail, and remote dirt roads in the heart of the Mahoosucs from your secluded walk-in low impact tent site with privy. Deep swimming holes and trout fishing beckon. There are five sites in total. Hillside, Riverside and Fireside each have a picnic table, they all share a fire pit and a privy and are on the side of the road closest to the river. Main Eastside and the North site also share a fire pit and privy, Main Eastside has a picnic table, these two sites are across the street from the river which is just a short walk away. Riverside: a more secluded site and closest to the river Hillside: the smallest site available and closest to the parking area, other campers will need to access their sites by walking past this campsite Fireside: closest to the communal fire pit and privy ** Parking is available at the top of the campsite. The sites are accessed down a steeper path. Gear carts are provided. 1 vehicle is permitted per site but additional parking is available across the street. Please inquire for directions/instructions. ** Main Eastside: our largest site, suitable for a large group, closest to the privy and fire pit, has a picnic table North Site: smaller site and located in the woods, campers drive past the Main Eastside site to access, this site has a more remote feeling, there is no picnic table but campers do have access to the shared fire pit at the Main Eastside site and the privy
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