The best waterside camping in Maine

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Waterfront camping in Maine means waking up to the slap of a paddle or the call of a loon. With over 2,300 options, you’ll find sites perched beside lakes, tucked along winding rivers, and scattered from tidal coves to rugged pond shores. The average night runs $55, but you can score a spot for as little as $15. Top-reviewed camps like Slippery Rock Trails LLC (508 reviews), The Point (471 reviews), and Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss (241 reviews) get high marks from locals and travelers alike. Bring your dog, light a campfire, and don’t forget your rod—fishing, hiking, and snow sports are all on the table. Most sites have toilets and welcome pets, so you can focus on exploring the woods, not logistics.

96% (7.2K) 243 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Maine

Big Moose Inn Cabins & Campground

1. 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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Electrical hookup
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Blueberry Land Tent Platforms

2. 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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The Queen's Property on Thomas Pond

3. The Queen's Property on Thomas Pond

97%
(49)
Casco, ME · 1 site · Tent, RV
Thomas Pond is a beautiful 533-acre freshwater lake with over 10 miles of shoreline. The Pond reaches a maximum depth of 64 feet, with an average depth of 22 feet. From your private beach, you can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding in a peaceful waterfront setting. The gently sloping, sandy water is ideal for children to play and/or for adults to unwind with a book and a favorite drink. Just a short woodland walk from your RV, the beach offers a relaxing retreat for the whole family. Guests also enjoy access to the private boat launch, and the new dock is available for your boat throughout your stay. LOCAL ATTRACTIONS NEAR CAMP Just five minutes from camp, guests have easy access to everyday essentials, including ice, firewood, snacks, fuel, and RV supplies. For added convenience, groceries can be ordered online for pickup at Hannaford Brothers Grocery or Walmart, making it simple to stock up on your way to camp or restock during your stay. During your stay, you may wish to explore the natural beauty and small-town charm of Maine’s Lakes Region. Spend a day in the historic oceanfront city of Portland or discover the nearby towns of Windham, Naples, and Bridgton. Just eight minutes from your site, Naples offers boat rentals, welcoming waterfront shops, and a wonderful selection of dining options for a relaxed afternoon or evening out. A bit farther north, Bridgton offers a charming downtown with distinctive local shops, inviting pubs, and well-regarded restaurants. Crystal Lake’s scenic beaches, located along the edge of town, make it an especially lovely destination for a family outing or an easy day trip. The nearby towns of Raymond and Windham also offer an excellent selection of restaurants, grocery stores, hardware stores, and gas stations, all just three to four minutes from your campsite. For guests who enjoy time outdoors, Sebago Lake State Park spans 1,342 acres along the shores of Sebago Lake and features protected forests, scenic bike paths, and beautiful lake beaches. The park and lake are home to some of Maine’s finest sandy beaches and offer an exceptional range of outdoor experiences, including water sports, fishing, boating, boat rentals
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Full hookups
Lake St. George State Park

4. Lake St. George State Park

State park in Maine · 38 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Lake St. George State Park.
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Toilets
Campfires
Machias River Corridor

5. Machias River Corridor

Park in Maine · 4 sites
Discover the wild Machias River Corridor, a haven for paddlers and nature lovers.
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Toilets
Campfires
Sennebec Lake Campground

6. Sennebec Lake Campground

Appleton, ME · 32 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover the unique charm of Sennebec Lake Campground, where 40 stunning acres of private lakefront property offer an unparalleled camping experience. Nestled amidst majestic cathedral pines and towering oaks, our campground provides a serene escape that allows guests to reconnect with nature, family, and friends. With breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains, visitors can immerse themselves in tranquility or seek adventure in the great outdoors. Whether you prefer a peaceful day on the water or exploring nearby hiking trails, Sennebec Lake Campground caters to all outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy a leisurely paddle on our pristine lake, where the harmonious blend of water, woods, and shoreline creates the perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection. Create lasting memories with loved ones as you explore the rugged beauty of Maine, where the mountains meet the sea. Join us for an unforgettable vacation filled with nature's wonders and the warmth of genuine hospitality.
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Full hookups
Magnificent View Blueberry Hilltop

7. Magnificent View Blueberry Hilltop

99%
(171)
Union, ME · 2 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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Picnic table
Lake Auburn Community Forest

8. Lake Auburn Community Forest

98%
(87)
ME · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled against 200 acres of protected watershed lands we are located directly on the original Spring Road from the 1800s. A short walk or bike southwest to the Lake Auburn Community Center and northeast to Lake Auburn's W.Spring Rd trails. Beautiful sunrises down by the water and catch the sun setting from your Hipcamp:) Learn more about this land: Miles of pedestrian trails nestled in the 300 year old West Auburn (Minot) Farm pastures and wooded forests. 50/30/20/15 amp services, water, sewer drains or dump station or Porta potty depending on which site you select. Firewood, dump station, rubbish services, internet, mail delivery, cable available for additional venmo/PPal fees.
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Full hookups
Continuous Harmony Farm Camp

9. Continuous Harmony Farm Camp

93%
(124)
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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Electrical hookup
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Mount Blue State Park

10. Mount Blue State Park

State park in Maine · 136 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Mount Blue State Park and its array of outdoor activities.
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Toilets
Campfires
Nahmakanta Public Reserved Land

11. Nahmakanta Public Reserved Land

Park in Maine · 22 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Nahmakanta Public Reserved Land.
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Toilets
Campfires
Richardson Public Reserved Land

12. Richardson Public Reserved Land

Park in Maine · 3 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Richardson Public Reserved Land.
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Toilets
Rocky Lake Public Reserved Land

13. Rocky Lake Public Reserved Land

Park in Maine · 11 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Rocky Lake Public Reserved Land.
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Hole in the Wall Camping

14. Hole in the Wall Camping

97%
(400)
Strong, ME · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
We purchased this land a few years ago when our neighbors decided to sell. It abuts our property They used it as a place for their family to gather and camp on during Maine wonderful summer season. It is a beautiful, quiet spot with a great view and a small pond. Hipcamp lets us share this spot and helps pay our property taxes. We are located in the western mountains of Maine in a summer community on Porter Lake. There is a beautiful view of New Vineyard mountain from our 3 acre field. We are going through some growing pains. We currently have no hookups available. We have added a bath house with hot showers which will soon be up and running. The camp sites have been relocated deeper into our property. A loop road behind our private pond provides the access. We will be adding power and water to all our sites as soon as possible. The camping area is fairly private from our neighbors along the road. The site has a small private pond surrounded by trees you can sit and relax near. You can (walk/bike/drive) the 1/4 mile down the dirt road to the public beach. The beach has a public dock, boat ramp, swim float, picnic tables and grills. Paddle out to the island and try the rope swing with one of our kayaks or canoes. Be sure to check out the bald eagles that live in the white pine tree just a little farther down the island. You will hear the loons during your stay and possibly see a mother with her babies on her back. There are also ducks and ducklings and geese with gosling paddling about the lake. The state stocks the lake with trout, splake, and salmon if you like to fish. There is plenty to do right here!
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Hamilton Farm Getaway

15. Hamilton Farm Getaway

96%
(41)
Whitefield, ME · 1 site
Denali, our farm hound, looks forward to greeting you. The sheep and pigs will also enjoy seeing you. Our farm cabin has a great feel of being connected to nature. It is quiet, cozy and a wonderful place to watch the sunset overlooking grazing animals. The cabin has a queen bed in the downstair bedroom and another double bed in the loft. The couch in the sitting room also folds-out to a double bed for the children. We use high-quality cotton sheets, pillows and down comforters - to assure you will be cozy and feel pampered. We provide coffee/tea service in the morning in our farm store. The cabin does not have heat, electricity or running water. We provide numerous battery-charged lights and candles making this a is cozy, relaxing and perfect way to experience Maine farm life. An outhouse is nearby. We provide an outdoor hot-water shower. Plan to visit our farm store where you can buy home-made soap, beeswax candles, organic wool pillows, sheep and goat skins and other creations made by Patti. Loads of hiking trails are right out our door or wander down the gravel road. Visiting the animals (sheep, pigs and, of course, Denali - the farm hound) is always a highlight for guests. Please leave your own dog at home, thank you. Chris is a proud Mainer and natural tour guide. He will be happy to provide you with his favorite recommendations and hidden gems. For the past eleven years, hundreds of people have enjoyed seeing the lambs, walking on our trails, and relaxing in a cell-free zone. In the summer our cabin books every night – so we encourage you to make reservations soon. If you would like to talk over your plans, please give us a call. Denali the hound (and we) look forward to welcoming you!
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TOAD HALL

16. TOAD HALL

94%
(42)
Harrison, ME · 1 site
Toad Hall is a heated, one room, 8x8 cabin in Harrison, Maine, with access to the Bear River for wading and swimming (depending on the river height.) There is a firepit at the cabin, along with one down by the river. Firewood is provided. The lower area by the river is a beautiful place to hang out, pitch hammocks etc... The cabin is near the road, which is great for loading in and loading out, but you will hear/see cars drive by. (Read our reviews, we stand by them!) There is no running water or bathroom on the property so please bring a camping potty and do not bury human waste! The Bear River, which is a beautiful spot to swim and wade in, runs right through the property- but it's also drinking water and a protected watershed. Again, please make sure you have a camping potty plan. Cabin Features: There are 2 cots inside, but also feel free to bring your own pads/bedding. There are solar lights inside, along with a USB plug to charge small devices. It is a clean, warm, dry room, with beautiful light and good ventilation with the windows cracked. Nearby places you will like: We are within walking distance to downtown restaurants and public swimming area on Long Lake. There's also porto potties next to the walkable country store, which has everything you forgot to bring. Also a great ice cream shack, and an above-average watering hole, The Olde Mill Tavern. This is a self check-in/out, so expect an easy arrival process (and we'll ask you to please leave the property prepared for the next guest to arrive.)
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The Gabled Farm House

17. The Gabled Farm House

94%
(8)
Farmington, ME · 1 site
This camping spot has it all. Privacy, you have the whole camp to yourself. Easy river access on the property, just a minute down the trail, miles of atv/walking trails within a few minutes walk, a full service gas station, convenient store and diner just minutes walk as well. And we're under an hour to 3 ski resorts and larger cities. About 15 minutes to a Walmart in Farmington for necessities. Bring your kids, your dogs, even your horses. Trails for 4 wheelers, horses, hikers. Fishing on property. Free access to fresh award winning water. Safe, friendly, small Maine Town. Note if you have a super fancy camper and you're afraid of a little scratch, perhaps this Camp isn't for you.
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Wild Maine Blueberry Camp!

18. Wild Maine Blueberry Camp!

67%
(3)
Aurora, ME · 6 sites
Greetings Hipcampers! We are located in beautiful Aurora ME 28 miles outside of Bangor along route 9 headed towards Calais and the Canadian border. Come enjoy fresh picked Wild Maine blueberries August-September. Or we'll loan you a rake and you can harvest your own! We are located 2 miles from Ralphie's General store and cafe. He has gas, diesel, general supplies, camping supplies and bait. Great fishing nearby at our many nearby ponds. Long Pond and Dow Pines recreation area is a 10 minute drive from camp to swim, fish and get ice cream. The Union River is nearby also for swimming and fishing. The Airline Brewing Company is nearby next to Ralphie's (Thursday to Sunday). Great selection of fresh micro-brews and great food. Matt the chef has a great team. Rock climbing nearby in Clifton (Cliff Town). Our blueberry farm/ campground makes a great base camp for the many adventures to be had in these parts. I have 4 generations of roots in Aurora and would love to tell you about the area. Happy travels!
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