The best family-friendly glamping near Portland, Maine

Cities called Portland crop up all over the United States, but no Portland does camping quite like Maine’s. From downtown to greater Portland, campsites offer a window into New England’s stunning scenery and communal culture. Embrace all things Maine with a tranquil beach campsite by the Atlantic Ocean, or, if you’re looking for a family-friendly or pet-friendly getaway, opt for an RV site with access to mini-golf and a playground. Just outside the city, you can explore Freeport’s Desert of Maine, though no matter where you stay, you’re guaranteed some of the state’s best camping.

99% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Outhouse, gardens, & firepit a short walk away.

Cities called Portland crop up all over the United States, but no Portland does camping quite like Maine’s. From downtown to greater Portland, campsites offer a window into New England’s stunning scenery and communal culture. Embrace all things Maine with a tranquil beach campsite by the Atlantic Ocean, or, if you’re looking for a family-friendly or pet-friendly getaway, opt for an RV site with access to mini-golf and a playground. Just outside the city, you can explore Freeport’s Desert of Maine, though no matter where you stay, you’re guaranteed some of the state’s best camping.

99% (1.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Tir na nOg Farm

98%

(363)

18mi from Portland · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Pownal, ME

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 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.

2. Dancing Lawn

100%

(80)

22mi from Portland · 1 site · Lodging · Arundel, ME

When we first purchased our property, we were made aware of a young fella needing a spot to set up his yurt. He lived with us for two years before moving along. We had enjoyed having him and his yurt on our land so when he left, It left a virtual and metaphorical hole. A couple years later we had an opportunity to purchase a yurt from an outdoor adventure company and so it began. We improved upon our tenant's idea by adding a proper outhouse and outdoor shower area. The space offered us a quiet haven during hectic times and now we are ready to share that opportunity. Our yurt sits on a quiet and private nook on our 7 acre property. We are right in between Kennebunk and Biddeford so there are quite a number of areas to explore if you make us your home base. It is a lovely 6 mile ride to Goose Rocks Beach or you can spend an afternoon walking around Dock's Square in Kennebunkport. Biddeford is a rapidly rebuilding mill town that has made several high profile food and travel publications for its great dining spots. If you are visiting to get away from the city, we are less than a mile away from the Eastern Trail which connects South Portland to Kittery, ME. Bring a bike or plan a quiet walk. We have a little fire pit so feel free to spend the day here and enjoy the birds. We hope to see you soon Kelly and Jason

3. Island View At Kiwanis Beach

99%

(66)

23mi from Portland · 3 sites · Lodging · Standish, ME

Enjoy unforgettable sunrises and sunsets at our private sandy beach on 448 acres of Watchic Lake. Perfect for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, Loon watching and pristine swimming! Break away from the chaos of everyday life and have a relaxing getaway on your own private sandy beach. At Island View at Kiwanis Beach you have your own inlet where you can fish, swim, canoe on 448 acres of water. listen to the loon warn their young when the American Bald Eagles are over head. Enjoy the beautiful sunsets over the lake. Local amenities include Hiking, walking trails, Farmers Market, local shops and Restaurants. if you chose to explore, White Mountains and North Conway Outlet stores, 45 minutes away ! Or the Atlantic ocean; Casco Bay, Old port of Portland, Old Orchard Beach and Saco Bay are 30 minutes away! Accommodations are large canvas tent on platform, with queen size bed. Picnic tables, 2 Adirondack chairs, easy-up canopy, firepit, 5 gallon water cooler, Coleman stove, cooler, lanterns, trash can, fire extinguisher and first aid kit, and portable toilet.

4. Slippery Rock Trails LLC

100%

(1105)

38mi from Portland · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Greene, ME

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.

5. Raven's Rest Tiny Cabin

97%

(190)

44mi from Portland · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Alna, ME

the cabin is in winter mode and has limit water, please bring all the water you need. if you forget or need more the can supply water when we are available to do so. Our cabin is an off grid (very limited power, now way to charge or plug in AC devices) post and beam structure that we built 8 years ago. It's has a full kitchen, wood stove, and screened porch. There are jugs provided for doing dishes etc and a large (150 gallon) tank outside for refills. There are a generous supply of lanterns (both battery and inflatable solar) flashlights and string lights for lighting. This is a small two story timber frame cabin off grid and secluded deep in the woods. It has a separate outhouse as well as shower stall to use the solar shower bags in. The cabin has a king sized bed in the loft with a child size fold down bunk above it; there is also a pull out couch on the first floor. As well as a kitchen, screened in porch and fire pit. Linen, dishes and utensils are not included please bring all that you need. There is a propane 4 burner stove with oven and solar shower bags. Trash and campfire wood is included. We are very busy with kids and work, we try our best to clean and re-supply between guests but it is not always possible, please let us know if something needs attention!

Stories from the community

P

Patrick

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Raven's Rest Tiny Cabin

This is the best hipcamp site I've seen so far. We have stayed here 4 or 5 times and will definitely return. My son asked to spend his birthday here this year. There is a wood stove, comfortable beds and even a little electricity for lights. It is very private and quiet. It is well kept and tidy. Dogs are welcome.

L

Logan

October 2025

1 night at Raven's Rest Tiny Cabin

Incredible getaway. Thoughtful and well built cabin. Beautiful bench with a perfect incline to look at the stars in front of the fire. The wood stove kept us incredibly toasty. Absolute dream. Cannot beat it.

B

Bet

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Raven's Rest Tiny Cabin

Thoroughly enjoyed my stay at tiny house. The home has windows on every wall, taking advantage of it's beautiful secluded spot in the woods. The hosts were not intrusive, but were quick to respond to my questions. There's generous amounts of firewood on the property and the bench near the fire pit is at the perfect slant for stargazing. Would definitely return..

Kristen

October 2025

3 nights at Raven's Rest Tiny Cabin

Loved everything about this cabin. Perfect peaceful getaway to celebrate my good friends birthday. Wood stove heats cabin very well. Screened in porch is a nice added touch. Beds are all very comfy and it was nice having lights the worked! I would come back here again and again as it is just far enough away from civilization but also close if you needed to run somewhere for food or coffee! Also loved the amount of privacy the host gives you. I did not see the host at all during our stay but knew if we needed anything they were a call away.

Elsie

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Slippery Rock Trails LLC

We’ve been coming here for the past 7 years or so and we always look forward to it! The hosts are so welcoming and make you feel like your camping in a friends backyard! Their land is private and expansive! Can’t wait to come back next year!

M

Matt

October 2025

1 night at Dancing Lawn

Very thoughtfully put together stay with everything we needed! Be ready for a chill in the colder months but a space heater and extra blankets were provided to make the stay as comfortable as possible! We loved our stay at Dancing Lawn

J

Jon

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Tir na nOg Farm

The farm was very lively! Had a fun time learning about the animals. Hosts were very friendly. Had a nice bonfire as well :)

M

Mary Elizabeth

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Dancing Lawn

The idyllic location for being in nature. The yurt was wonderfully set up. We enjoyed hot tea each night. The property is close to amenities while feeling removed from the hustle and bustle of it all. Despite the cold we enjoyed an outdoor shower. The property is near a trail to take in all the changing leaves. The hosts were so kind and thoughtful and provided spot on recommendations. We are so grateful!

M

Marissa

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Slippery Rock Trails LLC

We loved our time at Slippery Rock Trail! The site is very private, quiet and well-maintained. We loved being able to kayak along the river and take naps in the hammock. The bed was comfortable and the outhouse was clean & well-stocked. The hosts warmly greeted us when we arrived to take us to the site, gave us a map with the surrounding walking trails, and made sure we had everything we needed to make sure our stay was a pleasant one. :)

J

Jessica

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Dancing Lawn

YURT=YES! We arrived to a wonderful oasis, greated by wild turkeys and a beautifully maintained home away from home! My mother and I went skydiving 8 minutes away for my birthday, and this is the perfect place to unwind and experience a wonderful mix of amenities and privacy. I could not have asked for a better birthday. Thank you to the wonderful hosts, who respond instantly and made our stay memorable for entertiny!

Close easy picnic table that won't leave you far from the indoor kitchen area.

L

Lauren

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Slippery Rock Trails LLC

We love coming back to this place year after year! It’s so beautiful and John and his family have taken such great care of the land and are excellent hosts. 10/10 recommend!

J

Jennifer

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Dancing Lawn

A beautiful space. Well kitted out. Would absolutely recommend and return. Thank you both so much.

E

Emily

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Island View At Kiwanis Beach

The lake was warm still, clean, the views were beautiful. We were the last campers of the season so we had lots of privacy. The cabin had a fridge for us, a few basics re: utensils, plates , cups, washbin, an extra blanket, and a pull out couch. A fan, space heater, and toaster/coffeemaker. The space heater worked well at night. The bathroom was close and it had a full kitchen sink to wash, stall shower, toilet stall. There are motion sensor lights at night for the scaredy cats. Dumpster on site.

D

Derek

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tir na nOg Farm

Beautiful place to stay! Easy walk to the Hobbit House. The animals are amazing and everyone on the farm was so kind and helpful.

E

Elliot

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Dancing Lawn

We loved the yurt! It was the perfect little getaway and we will be back again! 10/10

R

Rachel

September 2025

1 night at Tir na nOg Farm

The folks at the farm were super kind and it was so incredibly peaceful there! We got to watch the baby highland cow get bottle fed which was such an awesome surprise! Very easy to access from Portland too! I highly recommend going to Elevensies too if you're there on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday!

H

Hanna

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Tir na nOg Farm

Holly was very considerate after a last minute cancel due to sudden health issues. I hope we can visit soon!

B

Brenda

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Island View At Kiwanis Beach

We enjoyed our weekend in the cabin! Clean, comfortable, and quiet. My sister stayed in one of the platform tent sites. We spent most of the weekend at their site and would walk (or canoe!) back to ours. Sarah was a great host and made us feel right at home. We will definitely be back next year.

Meghan

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Island View At Kiwanis Beach

Great spot to relax by the water and kayak/canoe! Loved having all the basics provided to keep setup to a minimum. It was perfect to have a propane stove especially!

S

Shaunte

September 2025

With pets

2 nights at Raven's Rest Tiny Cabin

The Tiny home made for a great 2 night getaway, with just enough accommodations to make a camping experience feel more like home. We enjoyed playing yard games in the well maintained yard space and cooking fun meals over the fire (such as plus that fire wood is provided!). Thanks again for sharing your space with us! We will be back.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best family-friendly glamping near Portland guide

Where to go

South of the City

Slowly make your way into Portland, and stop—and spend the night—just south of the city. Check into a beachfront rental in York County’s Kennebunkport or Old Orchard Beach, and enjoy views of the Saco Bay. Or, skip to Scarborough, where you’ll find no shortage of RV parks and glamping sites. Scarborough Beach State Park is a must-stop, especially for swimmers.

Casco Bay

If you’d rather camp north of Portland, you don’t have to go far for views. Rent a campsite in Casco Bay, where towering lighthouses and historic ships abound. Fishermen and birdwatchers will particularly enjoy the area’s robust wildlife, though if you want an ultra-adventurous camping trip, explore Chebeague Island. You’ll never tire of looking out at the clear Maine waters from your island tent site.

Sebago Lake

As one of Maine’s largest lakes, Sebago Lake proves that beachfront camping isn’t limited to the ocean. Check into a family campground and try kayaking around the lake. Then, unwind at your RV resort with full hookups and a fire pit. If you prefer biking, consider booking a campsite with trailhead access; Sebago Lake State Park is as picturesque as it is vast.

When to go

Maine is known for its cold waters year-round, so swimming—even in the summer—isn’t a given. Activities, however, are always guaranteed, so come between June and August to enjoy Portland at its most vibrant. Think: beachfront lobster shacks, outdoor concerts, and evenings spent barbecuing. Of course, crowds tend to have the same idea, so if you can handle chillier weather, book a campsite in the shoulder seasons. Campers will find a much quieter Portland—one best enjoyed from a campsite with wifi and extra blankets.