The best waterfall campgrounds near Gardiner, Maine

Chasing waterfalls near Gardiner? You’re in luck—there are over 40 campsites here that put you close to the sound of rushing water. Average nights run about $35, but you’ll find spots for as low as $20. Campfires are allowed, pets are welcome, and you can count on hot showers after a day hiking or fishing. snow sports keep winter lively. Locals favor Hole in the Wall Camping (157 reviews), Deering Acres Campground (59 reviews), and Colby's Cabin (17 reviews) for easy waterfall access and solid amenities. Bring sturdy boots—terrain ranges from mossy creek beds to icy winter trails.

96% (285)

Top-rated campgrounds

Chasing waterfalls near Gardiner? You’re in luck—there are over 40 campsites here that put you close to the sound of rushing water. Average nights run about $35, but you’ll find spots for as low as $20. Campfires are allowed, pets are welcome, and you can count on hot showers after a day hiking or fishing. snow sports keep winter lively. Locals favor Hole in the Wall Camping (157 reviews), Deering Acres Campground (59 reviews), and Colby's Cabin (17 reviews) for easy waterfall access and solid amenities. Bring sturdy boots—terrain ranges from mossy creek beds to icy winter trails.

96% (285)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Deering Acres Campground

91%

(100)

41mi from Gardiner · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Brooks, ME

George Deering owned these acres and worked as a farmer in the early to mid 1900's, my parent's acquired the property in 1991 and it has since been passed on to me. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent in the field or near the wood line with a beautiful view; quiet and peaceful but close to amenities, a half mile away in the Town of Brooks. There is some availability for campers; although no hook-ups!

2. Colby's Cabin

100%

(24)

46mi from Gardiner · 1 site · Lodging · Carthage, ME

Colby's Cabin has everything you need for your stay in a beautiful, off-the-grid, rustic log cabin on 10 acres in a wilderness area minutes to Webb Lake, Tumbledown Mountain & Mt. Blue State Park. Many kinds of trails all around. In Maine’s finest hiking, hunting, fishing, skiing, hiking and boating territory. A perfect place for adventure, romance, celebration or serenity. An escape from the electronic world! But there is good cell/data service too. The cabin has solar and battery lights but no power or generator. Hand water pump in the kitchen during spring/summer/fall. 6 gallons of wash water provided in the winter. Spacious outhouse, solar shower, etc. (See Winter Conditions below). Glamping at its finest! This is a cozy place with led lights & solar lights, candles, gas cook range, gas refrigerator, wood stove, a dug well with hand-pump in the kitchen (pump can not be used when the temperature is below freezing) and a log cabin outhouse. King bed in bedroom; twin bunk beds and queen pull-out futon couch in great room Fully outfitted with dishes, utensils, pots,/pans, linens/blankets/pillows, books, games, oil lanterns, camp/bag shower and more. Firewood is included in the rental price. Propane, paper towels, toilet paper and dish soap are also provided. All Wheel Drive or 4WD is needed to access the cabin in winter and mud season. WINTER CONDITIONS (when ground is frozen): -4-wheel drive or All Wheel Drive needed. -There is NO running water from the well pump when the ground is frozen. The sink can be used with a bucket underneath. Bring extra water for washing. -Really big storms can cause reservations to be rescheduled -Extreme Cold Weather: When temperatures fall to 15 degrees or below, use the propane heater in the bunk room with the woodstove in the great room. Feed the wood stove every couple of hours. Snowmobilers! You may have to unload your machines at the bottom of the hill to get your trucks up the hill with trailers hitched or leave trailers at the bottom of the hill in a plowed out parking area, ride the snowmobiles up separately. -Shooting/Target practice is NO longer allowed due to lack of respect for safety by several sets of guests. Off the grid = NO ELECTRICITY! There IS cell/data service Bring your own drinking water

3. Hole in the Wall Camping

97%

(400)

47mi from Gardiner · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Strong, ME

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!

4. Dandelion Rest Stop

34mi from Gardiner · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Freedom, ME

Across the street from The Lost Kitchen. Quiet residence in the village across from the historic mill and a cascading waterfall on Sandy stream. There is a town pond for swimming, fishing and boating a 5 minute walk. Located in midcoast you are centrally positioned with Belfast, Camden, Waterville and Bangor a short drive.

5. Ironside Farm

100%

(20)

40mi from Gardiner · 5 sites · Tents · Norway, ME

Discover the epitome of outdoor serenity at our property, where carefully selected camping sites provide breathtaking vistas of both sunrise and sunset, framed by the majestic embrace of surrounding mountains. Immerse yourself in nature's canvas, with each moment offering a panoramic spectacle that paints the sky with hues of dawn and dusk. Embark on a multitude of outdoor escapades in our local haven. Traverse the expanses of our 87-acre property, inviting you to explore hidden trails and embrace the beauty of untouched landscapes. For a more elevated experience, venture to the renowned Buck's Ledge, where nature's grandeur unveils itself in a spectacular display. For thrill-seekers, nearby Mt. Abrams offers exhilarating mountain biking trails, ensuring an adrenaline-fueled journey through rugged terrains. Alternatively, surrender to the tranquility of local ponds as you embark on a kayaking adventure, letting the gentle waters guide you through serene landscapes. Your next adventure awaits—whether it's a leisurely hike through our expansive property or an adrenaline-pumping mountain biking expedition. Feel free to reach out to us via private message for more information, and let the anticipation of your next outdoor escapade begin.

6. Bay Berry Hill with a view!

90%

(5)

47mi from Gardiner · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Searsport, ME

At the top of the hill you can see the bay with trails and a moose that visits in the spring.Theres a small stream running thru the lower entrance of the property. Back in the 1800 they raised sheep and farmed the land.

Stories from the community

O

Olivia

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Colby's Cabin

What a great stay!!! The space was clean and included everything needed for a relaxing weekend. The wood stove heated the whole cabin nicely. Hope to be able to stay again.

N

Nehemiah

November 2025

Tent

4 nights at Deering Acres Campground

I had a nice stay here. The privy was clean and it's only 30-40 minute drive from Bangor. The sites are on a slight grade of a hill but it isn't that bad and they each have a fire ring and picnic table with a trash can.

E

Emma

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ironside Farm

We loved the site so much we decided to stay for a second night!

E

Emma

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ironside Farm

We had a phenominal time during a little late season camping trip here. The land was stunning and provided awesome views of the stars at night; the stream made for great ambient sound, all around great area! Sean was super friendly and we even got to meet the goats! Short drive away from Norway and Bethel, would defintiely recommened if you're looking for a weekend getaway trip.

M

Michelle

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Deering Acres Campground

Beautiful, grassy hillside with a lovely sunset. Easy to find, traffic on the nearby road isn’t bothersome.

J

Joseph

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ironside Farm

Sean's meadows have lots of space and nice views for camping. Very peaceful environment.

S

Sam

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hole in the Wall Camping

Enjoyed my stay! Arrived after dark and Tom made a point to come find me lost and show me my way. Great view of stars and short walk to the public beach. Loons and owls all night!

K

Keegan

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Deering Acres Campground

Great camping experience. A beautiful field with plenty of room and privacy. The Port-o-john was in top quality condition. I would definitely stay again

K

Kelsea

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hole in the Wall Camping

Great stay! Enjoyed the field to ourselves and loved being able to watch to the beach!

E

Emily

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ironside Farm

What a great place to stay! Peaceful and private, the dogs had fun too. The sites are nicely spread out and there seems to be something for everyone! We checked out the waterfall on the property and the host was very kind and welcoming!

S

Susannah

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hole in the Wall Camping

Great spot for a weekend! Tom and JP were extremely friendly and helpful. The lake is perfect and our kids spent a whole day swimming, jumping off the floating dock and playing the boats that Tom provided.

A

Adam

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ironside Farm

Seans property was great! Big open field with privacy. I would stay here again.

M

Mike

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Ironside Farm

Had an amazing weekend with my 10 year old daughter. I’ve stayed here multiple times and it’s been great every time. We found a cool little museum in Woodstock, and had a great afternoon exploring nearby towns and found a public beach not too far away.

N

Norm

August 2025

15 ft campervan

1 night at Hole in the Wall Camping

Nice spot to camp for a night. Close to a beautiful clear lake. Host was friendly and available if needed.

Elizabeth

July 2025

24 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Hole in the Wall Camping

It was a great weekend at Tom’s. He has some construction going on for a new bath house so he moved us away from the noise and upgraded us to have electrical. His Handy man Jp was very helpful and a pleasure to chat with. This place is a campground in progress but that didn’t stop us from having a great time. Beanies beach just down the road was beautiful and refreshing. Plan on going back again!! Can’t wait to see all the new improvements. Thanks Tom and Jp for a pleasant experience.

G

Gary

July 2025

12 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Deering Acres Campground

Just a field with a Porta-pottie , a fire ring, picnic bench and a good view, but what more do you need? May be showers.

P

Peter

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ironside Farm

Sean was a great host. Very communicative and friendly. The camping spot by the pond was very secluded and peaceful.

G

Gary

July 2025

12 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Deering Acres Campground

Nice spot. Very scenic. Quite quiet. Quite roomy. Very little level spots. Brooks is a nice little community with a cafe and a health food store and a new food market. Ralph’s cafe has had a line waiting for breakfast the 2 times I tried to eat there.

G

Guy

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ironside Farm

Quiet and beautiful spot. Will definitely stay again.

F

Fariel

July 2025

Tent