The best lakeside camping near Dexter

·

Set your sights on Dexter if you want lakeside camping in Maine. With over 390 lake campsites here, you can pitch a tent steps from the water’s edge, watch loons at dawn, and end your day by the fire. Campsites cluster along quiet coves and in woods thick with pine. Rates start at $25 a night, with an average around $55. Showers, campfires, and pet-friendly spots are common, so you won’t have to rough it. Wildlife-watching draws plenty of early risers, while hiking trails and winter snow sports keep things lively year-round. For a local favorite, check out Hole in the Wall Camping (157 reviews), The Lonely Loon (76 reviews), or Evergreen Conservation Area (58 reviews). Bring binoculars—bald eagles patrol these shores.

96% (603)

Top-rated campgrounds near Dexter

2. 100 Mile Wilderness Cabin

99%
(81)
25mi from Dexter · 1 site · Lodging
This is a quaint, off grid cabin located in Elliotsville, Me., surrounded by wilderness, next to the Appalachian Trail in the 100 Mile Wilderness. Propane lights, glass front woodstove, fully operational kitchen, propane cookstove, fire pit out front, BBQ grill on porch. Firewood and propane and plenty of water at sink provided. 2 8ft kayaks for your use to explore all the ponds and lakes nearby. You can spend days or weeks exploring the area, hiking, biking, canoeing, mountain climbing and swimming. Its like going back in time a hundred years but you have some cell reception, unlike our ancestors. Have made several improvements to cabin not yet reflected in guest photos. Yeti type cooler provided for refrigeration of food for longer stays. The cabin is small but can accommodate 5 easily. Queen bed with bunk beds in 1st floor bedroom, full size and twin bed in upstairs bedroom. Clean linens provided. Open kitchen and living room.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$67
 / night

3. Cabin of the Woods at Tilden Pond

98%
(22)
45mi from Dexter · 1 site · Lodging
Winter camping is upon us! Soon you will be ice fishing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing in the Woods! Test your skills and enjoy the solitude of an all natural retreat. The Cabin will have some insulation this winter making your stay more comfortable. Bring your own heat source (if needed), or a good low temperature sleeping bag. Only 5 minutes off of Route 1 and even less from Route 3 near Belfast. There is a loft for sleeping with a mattress pad and two cots available for sleeping comfort. Enjoy the PRIVACY-over 230 acres of varied terrain typical of the Maine woods and wildlife including 1,200 feet of shoreline on the Tilden Pond. There is no public access to the 350-acre Tilden Pond. You can use the 10X14 Cabin which easily sleeps 4.. The Woods are separated by the Alder Brook which splits the entire property and flows into the pond. The Woods are an amazing place to de-stress, boost mental health and improve overall well-being naturally. There are two firepits and free firewood, fire starters. lighters and a dry tinder box along with hygienic supplies (Camp toilet, Biodegradable personal waste bags, Biodegradable soap, Toilet paper, hand sanitizer and candles) and a pit latrine. The Cabin of the Woods is close to popular Mid-coast towns like Camden, Rockport and Rockland with all of their amenities while enjoying life in this off-grid all-natural and relaxing setting. A 15-minute drive to Belfast allows you to find great lobster fresh from a lobster pound or pick up a meal and enjoy it while watching the daily life in Belfast Harbor and waterfront or other spots like Searsport Harbor or Sears Island. Short trip to Camden, Rockport and Rockland. Scenic 1 hour plus drive to Acadia National Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$34
 / night

7. Spacious Skies Balsam Woods

95%
(20)
18mi from Dexter · 126 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Spacious Skies Balsam Woods is a hidden paradise of a campground located right in the heart of Maine, just a half hour south of Moosehead Lake, the largest lake in Maine, and 60 miles as the crow flies from the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, Mt. Katahdin, in Baxter State Park. We offer both wooded and open sites that can accommodate most rigs. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, water, 30 or 50-amp electrical service, and most offer sewer. Groups and tent campers are welcome. Balsam Woods campground is less than a minute’s drive from Piper Pond, a 2-mile-long lake with public boat launch and beach access. Onsite, we have a camp store and snack bar stocked with necessities, treats, and goodies for the whole family. There is no shortage of fun activities with our heated pool, classic rec hall, playground, a new jumping pillow, and gem mining! We have three cozy rustic cabins as well as three deluxe cabins for those wanting to experience the beauty of the great outdoors but who may not be ready for the tenter or RV life!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night

8. Private Campsite w Lake option

97%
(19)
40mi from Dexter · 1 site · Tent, RV
Two Adults maximum(21 years and older), a Minimum $45 per night (without lake access) (with lake access and use of 2 kayaks, life jackets and paddles is an additional $40 or ($20per person). A private one campsite only, on a 3.5 acre forested lot. that is located across the camp road from the host's camp on beautiful, deep, spring fed Phillips/Lucerne Lake..The campsite is 30 minutes from Acadia National Park, 20 minutes from the Bangor Waterfront Concert Venue. (option) - lake access with two 15ft kayaks w/paddles and life jackets. The camp site can host tenting; or one small RV. * The campsite driveway ( marked by 2 thin orange driveway markers)is on the crest of a hill 200 yards prior to the 785 Lakeview Ave. address. (option) - a large 15' X 15 ' tent is available to rent with a queen size and single air mattress) . or the campsite can host one RV: the site does not have water or electrical hook up. But the host's camp has (option)an outdoor electrical box for use and an outdoor water faucet for use. There is a 20 gallon water barrel on the campsite and fire pit, outdoor table and chairs, and large trash barrel. Options- (option) - a basic small portable toilet is an available. The site is very private with a partial lakeview. The footpath from the campsite to the host's camp is about 150ft. and 75 more feet to lake access. There is a full service grocery store w/Dunkins and Amato's, Subway and Gas just seven minutes from campsite. (Option) - the host's camp has walk in lower level that has a queen size bed , refrigerator and living space w/television for rental time period options.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

9. Private Waterfront Cabin/Campsites

98%
(62)
15mi from Dexter · 4 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night

14. Hole in the Wall Camping

97%
(400)
45mi from Dexter · 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 have 2 trailer sites with power and water (non potable) and an out house. The field has several fire pits and soft grassy spaces for pitching tents. 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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night

19. Lakeside Mini A-Frame

99%
(62)
38mi from Dexter · 1 site · Lodging
Our cute little A-frame sleeps 2 people comfortably. It comes with its own outdoor kitchen, grill and outdoor bathroom, with a hot shower and composting toilet. There is cell phone service here as well. You will also enjoy your own private waterfront space with free kayak use, hammocks and firepit with complimentary fire wood. The lake does not have a sandy bottom, so you might want to bring water shoes. We are located about halfway between Bangor and Ellsworth. The Mini is a perfect spot for day trips to the coast. Just a 15 minute ride to Bangor where you will find many local breweries, restaurants, concert venue, theaters, shopping and night life. We are only an hour away from beautiful Mount Desert Island. Our area has abundant small wildlife. We regularly see rabbits, geese, ducks, beaver, eagles, osprey and of course loons. Kayak over to our private island where there are blueberries, and a mating pair of eagles. Paddle over, have lunch, pick some blueberries for your morning cereal, go for a swim. You could also kayak through the thoroughfare to Holbrook Pond. The site is small, just 1 acre and we do live very close by. You will have privacy, but you may hear or see us or our dogs at points during your stay. We will provide a few jugs of water, but you may want to bring some of your own. Cookware, plates, cups, utensils, and cooler are available for use. There is also a gas grill available. Linens will be provided if you don't bring your own, however the bed might not be made up. Our work schedules don't allow us to be how before 4:00 to clean up from previous campers. When checking out, please strip the bed and leave in tote. Thank you for your understanding.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$75
 / night

Set your sights on Dexter if you want lakeside camping in Maine. With over 390 lake campsites here, you can pitch a tent steps from the water’s edge, watch loons at dawn, and end your day by the fire. Campsites cluster along quiet coves and in woods thick with pine. Rates start at $25 a night, with an average around $55. Showers, campfires, and pet-friendly spots are common, so you won’t have to rough it. Wildlife-watching draws plenty of early risers, while hiking trails and winter snow sports keep things lively year-round. For a local favorite, check out Hole in the Wall Camping (157 reviews), The Lonely Loon (76 reviews), or Evergreen Conservation Area (58 reviews). Bring binoculars—bald eagles patrol these shores.

96% (603)

Top-rated campgrounds near Dexter

2. 100 Mile Wilderness Cabin

99%
(81)
25mi from Dexter · 1 site · Lodging
This is a quaint, off grid cabin located in Elliotsville, Me., surrounded by wilderness, next to the Appalachian Trail in the 100 Mile Wilderness. Propane lights, glass front woodstove, fully operational kitchen, propane cookstove, fire pit out front, BBQ grill on porch. Firewood and propane and plenty of water at sink provided. 2 8ft kayaks for your use to explore all the ponds and lakes nearby. You can spend days or weeks exploring the area, hiking, biking, canoeing, mountain climbing and swimming. Its like going back in time a hundred years but you have some cell reception, unlike our ancestors. Have made several improvements to cabin not yet reflected in guest photos. Yeti type cooler provided for refrigeration of food for longer stays. The cabin is small but can accommodate 5 easily. Queen bed with bunk beds in 1st floor bedroom, full size and twin bed in upstairs bedroom. Clean linens provided. Open kitchen and living room.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$67
 / night

3. Cabin of the Woods at Tilden Pond

98%
(22)
45mi from Dexter · 1 site · Lodging
Winter camping is upon us! Soon you will be ice fishing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing in the Woods! Test your skills and enjoy the solitude of an all natural retreat. The Cabin will have some insulation this winter making your stay more comfortable. Bring your own heat source (if needed), or a good low temperature sleeping bag. Only 5 minutes off of Route 1 and even less from Route 3 near Belfast. There is a loft for sleeping with a mattress pad and two cots available for sleeping comfort. Enjoy the PRIVACY-over 230 acres of varied terrain typical of the Maine woods and wildlife including 1,200 feet of shoreline on the Tilden Pond. There is no public access to the 350-acre Tilden Pond. You can use the 10X14 Cabin which easily sleeps 4.. The Woods are separated by the Alder Brook which splits the entire property and flows into the pond. The Woods are an amazing place to de-stress, boost mental health and improve overall well-being naturally. There are two firepits and free firewood, fire starters. lighters and a dry tinder box along with hygienic supplies (Camp toilet, Biodegradable personal waste bags, Biodegradable soap, Toilet paper, hand sanitizer and candles) and a pit latrine. The Cabin of the Woods is close to popular Mid-coast towns like Camden, Rockport and Rockland with all of their amenities while enjoying life in this off-grid all-natural and relaxing setting. A 15-minute drive to Belfast allows you to find great lobster fresh from a lobster pound or pick up a meal and enjoy it while watching the daily life in Belfast Harbor and waterfront or other spots like Searsport Harbor or Sears Island. Short trip to Camden, Rockport and Rockland. Scenic 1 hour plus drive to Acadia National Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$34
 / night

7. Spacious Skies Balsam Woods

95%
(20)
18mi from Dexter · 126 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Spacious Skies Balsam Woods is a hidden paradise of a campground located right in the heart of Maine, just a half hour south of Moosehead Lake, the largest lake in Maine, and 60 miles as the crow flies from the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, Mt. Katahdin, in Baxter State Park. We offer both wooded and open sites that can accommodate most rigs. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, water, 30 or 50-amp electrical service, and most offer sewer. Groups and tent campers are welcome. Balsam Woods campground is less than a minute’s drive from Piper Pond, a 2-mile-long lake with public boat launch and beach access. Onsite, we have a camp store and snack bar stocked with necessities, treats, and goodies for the whole family. There is no shortage of fun activities with our heated pool, classic rec hall, playground, a new jumping pillow, and gem mining! We have three cozy rustic cabins as well as three deluxe cabins for those wanting to experience the beauty of the great outdoors but who may not be ready for the tenter or RV life!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$40
 / night

8. Private Campsite w Lake option

97%
(19)
40mi from Dexter · 1 site · Tent, RV
Two Adults maximum(21 years and older), a Minimum $45 per night (without lake access) (with lake access and use of 2 kayaks, life jackets and paddles is an additional $40 or ($20per person). A private one campsite only, on a 3.5 acre forested lot. that is located across the camp road from the host's camp on beautiful, deep, spring fed Phillips/Lucerne Lake..The campsite is 30 minutes from Acadia National Park, 20 minutes from the Bangor Waterfront Concert Venue. (option) - lake access with two 15ft kayaks w/paddles and life jackets. The camp site can host tenting; or one small RV. * The campsite driveway ( marked by 2 thin orange driveway markers)is on the crest of a hill 200 yards prior to the 785 Lakeview Ave. address. (option) - a large 15' X 15 ' tent is available to rent with a queen size and single air mattress) . or the campsite can host one RV: the site does not have water or electrical hook up. But the host's camp has (option)an outdoor electrical box for use and an outdoor water faucet for use. There is a 20 gallon water barrel on the campsite and fire pit, outdoor table and chairs, and large trash barrel. Options- (option) - a basic small portable toilet is an available. The site is very private with a partial lakeview. The footpath from the campsite to the host's camp is about 150ft. and 75 more feet to lake access. There is a full service grocery store w/Dunkins and Amato's, Subway and Gas just seven minutes from campsite. (Option) - the host's camp has walk in lower level that has a queen size bed , refrigerator and living space w/television for rental time period options.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

9. Private Waterfront Cabin/Campsites

98%
(62)
15mi from Dexter · 4 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night

14. Hole in the Wall Camping

97%
(400)
45mi from Dexter · 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 have 2 trailer sites with power and water (non potable) and an out house. The field has several fire pits and soft grassy spaces for pitching tents. 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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night

19. Lakeside Mini A-Frame

99%
(62)
38mi from Dexter · 1 site · Lodging
Our cute little A-frame sleeps 2 people comfortably. It comes with its own outdoor kitchen, grill and outdoor bathroom, with a hot shower and composting toilet. There is cell phone service here as well. You will also enjoy your own private waterfront space with free kayak use, hammocks and firepit with complimentary fire wood. The lake does not have a sandy bottom, so you might want to bring water shoes. We are located about halfway between Bangor and Ellsworth. The Mini is a perfect spot for day trips to the coast. Just a 15 minute ride to Bangor where you will find many local breweries, restaurants, concert venue, theaters, shopping and night life. We are only an hour away from beautiful Mount Desert Island. Our area has abundant small wildlife. We regularly see rabbits, geese, ducks, beaver, eagles, osprey and of course loons. Kayak over to our private island where there are blueberries, and a mating pair of eagles. Paddle over, have lunch, pick some blueberries for your morning cereal, go for a swim. You could also kayak through the thoroughfare to Holbrook Pond. The site is small, just 1 acre and we do live very close by. You will have privacy, but you may hear or see us or our dogs at points during your stay. We will provide a few jugs of water, but you may want to bring some of your own. Cookware, plates, cups, utensils, and cooler are available for use. There is also a gas grill available. Linens will be provided if you don't bring your own, however the bed might not be made up. Our work schedules don't allow us to be how before 4:00 to clean up from previous campers. When checking out, please strip the bed and leave in tote. Thank you for your understanding.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$75
 / night

Camper favorites near Dexter

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near Dexter

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field