The best campgrounds near Portland, Maine with horseback riding

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% (590)

Top-rated campgrounds near Portland

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% (590)

Top-rated campgrounds near Portland

1. Lake Auburn Community Forest

98%

(87)

37mi from Portland · 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.

2. Private site close to attractions

99%

(47)

37mi from Portland · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Large camping spot on the edge of a 125-acre farm. Site has an open area with sunny or shaded place to set up camp. Guests are welcome to walk or hike around the property. There are open fields and some rough hiking trails (wear good shoes!) Small stream runs through the property and there are wild turkeys, deer and other wildlife about. This is a rustic site with picnic table, fire ring and chemical toilet. Pretty and peaceful. Plenty of room to pull in a motorhome, camper or pop up Convenient to most locations in Southern Maine and NH. Located near the center of town, there are stores and restaurants within a 5-minute drive. Excellent location to be away from tourist areas but close enough to visit -Beaches 20-30 minutes, RT 95-15 mins, Portland 45; Portsmouth-45 mins, Kittery Outlets -30 mins. White Mountains 1 hour 30 mins.

3. Black Brook Acres

95%

(11)

44mi from Portland · 1 site · Lodging

Situated on the Denmark/Fryeburg town line, we're nestled in a valley between the Saco River and Pleasant Mountain. Ample opportunity for hiking and paddling adventures in the neighborhood. Saco River put-in/pick-up 5 mins down the road at Walkers Bridge. Close to White Mtns, lakes, rivers, and outdoor adventure galore. Right down the road from yoga & wood-fired saunas at Nurture Through Nature, Denmark Arts Center, Stone Mountain Arts Center, & Saco River Brewing. The lands are mostly field & forest, with trails along the Black Brook & seasonal kayak access to Pleasant Pond/Saco. Access via 302 / Stanley Hill Rd. for less dirt road travel. Shuttle services available if you're looking to float the Saco or mountain bike in North Conway.

4. Bradbury Mountain State Park

90%

(5)

34 sites · Freeport, Maine

Discover the scenic vistas and trails of Bradbury Mountain State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Browns Ridge Family Farm!

98%

(22)

45mi from Portland · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging

We are one of the first farms in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire and was originally the first stage coach stop for the area. Our house built in 1750s and at one point had hundreds of acres passed down which were passed down from a kings grant The original area was named after the original settlers, the Browns. Our house was also tavern in the beginning. This property has only passed hands through 4 families and remained with the Browns for most of its life. It has stayed as a farm for most of its tenure. We own 40 acres of pasture and woods and would love for you to come stay!

6. Hussey Mountain Tree Farm

100%

(435)

49mi from Portland · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

ATFS Certified Tree Farm Est. 2004 Camp with your group at our private Tree Farm / Conservation / Recreation Area. Established in 2004, we are an 87 acre ATFS certified Tree Farm located in the Blue Hills Range in the Foothills to NH’s White Mountains. Choose from one of four unique sites / outdoor spaces to best fit your camping needs; book a combination to reserve a section of the mountain, or book all four sites for total privacy or for events. Our Farm spans the northerly side of Hussey Mountain from the base to the summit. Guests are provided with private access to several miles of multi-use nature trails, multiple scenic lookouts, a three acre PYO blueberry maze, and a dock on our private eight acre pond with available boat rentals. At the 2WD shared parking area guests are provided with a outdoor shower with hot and cold water, a portable toilet, garden hose for washing, a power strip for charging devices, and a spigot with potable water for filling containers. Over two decades ago we created our first campsite for the purpose of hosting family and friends. Folks enjoyed camping on the mountain so much they often would choose our farm over traditional campgrounds. Hosting campers became a regular weekend event, and to accommodate more people we created three more sites spread out across the property. In 2020, we came across the Hipcamp app and started offering private reservations to the public. Since, we have been hosting campers on a daily basis and continuously improving our sites / infrastructure / views. We’re excited to see what the next two decades hold; come join us on the mountain! Things to do on the mountain SPRING-FALL include… Hiking on several miles of maintained nature trails marked with clear signage for easy day/night navigation. Relaxing/taking in the scenery from several scenic lookouts located on and around the mountain’s summit; combined they provide a 360-degree view spanning from the NH/ME Seacoast to the White Mountains of NH, to the Green Mountains of VT. Fishing, paddling, swimming, or relaxing on our dock. Bird/wildlife watching, berry picking, stargazing and leaf peeping. This is a place you can easily spend a few days and keep busy!

7. Lulu's 100 Acre Wood Cabin

98%

(74)

49mi from Portland · 1 site · Lodging

The 100 acre wood located in the hills of Oxford County is a peaceful get away from the hussle and bussle of todays world. Recently selectively logged we discovered views of local mountains and decided to take advantage of the clearings. The cabin was built for me to steal away from the house and enjoy the wildlife, quiet, stars and silence. It is too peaceful to keep to myself so come and enjoy all that Norway Maine and the surrounding area has to offer! Learn more about this land: Welcome to Lulu's. Where you can get a little crazy under the moon or you can take in the peace and serenity of the stillness in the woods. Depends on what you are looking for! No neighbors to infringe on your ideal get away. The large cabin has a welcoming front porch to enjoy the amazing sunrises over Streaked Mtn. 100 acres of privacy to hike, watch wildlife and just relax. Cabin has outside facilities. Off the grid-no electric or running water. Cell service is adequate. 1 gallon of fresh well water provided for drinking and 10 gallons for washing/cooking. Bring your own linens for a queen size bed, twin bunk beds and a full pull out couch. 2 pillows are supplied with a pillow protective cover and pillow case which are washed after each guest. Pots, pans and utensils, are onsite which are washed between campers; trash bags, compost bags, paper towels, dish soap, dish towels and a 2 burner propane stove(green canisters needed) and an older propane table top grill are provided. Camp fire grill on site if you prefer cooking over open flame. There are some battery operated light switches and solar lights in the camp and outhouse. Please remember you will be required to remove trash and outhouse composting bag. Thanks and hope to see you at Lulu's 100 acre wood! Downtown Norway has quaint shops to browse! Norway Lake has a public beach and boat dock. Many hiking trails nearby-Noyes Mtn, Patch Mnt, Singpole and Streaked Mtn to name a few. ATV trails (also can be used for off-road biking)onsite connect with other towns for many miles and hours of riding. Plenty of lakes/rivers for kayaking. Casino, race track and breweries for night life. Oxford Hills has much to offer.

8. Dixon's Coastal Maine Campground

36mi from Portland · 33 sites

Dixon's Campground stands out as a serene retreat nestled within twenty-six acres of pristine Maine woods, offering campers a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquility. Located in Cape Neddick, Maine, this campground provides an idyllic setting for those seeking a peaceful escape while still being close to vibrant coastal attractions. Just two miles south of Ogunquit Center and three miles north of York Beach, Dixon's Campground is perfectly situated for exploring the stunning local scenery. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from hitting the beautiful beaches and browsing charming outlet shops to discovering the thrill of sea kayaking and visiting the iconic Nubble Light. After a day of adventure, unwind poolside and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding woods. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, Dixon's Coastal Maine Campground is your gateway to the best of southern Maine. Experience the perfect blend of outdoor fun and serene relaxation, all within reach of the area's natural wonders and local attractions.

Camper favorites near Portland

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Browns Ridge Family Farm!

98%

(22)

45mi from Portland · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging

We are one of the first farms in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire and was originally the first stage coach stop for the area. Our house built in 1750s and at one point had hundreds of acres passed down which were passed down from a kings grant The original area was named after the original settlers, the Browns. Our house was also tavern in the beginning. This property has only passed hands through 4 families and remained with the Browns for most of its life. It has stayed as a farm for most of its tenure. We own 40 acres of pasture and woods and would love for you to come stay!

Hussey Mountain Tree Farm

100%

(435)

49mi from Portland · 7 sites · Tents, RVs

ATFS Certified Tree Farm Est. 2004 Camp with your group at our private Tree Farm / Conservation / Recreation Area. Established in 2004, we are an 87 acre ATFS certified Tree Farm located in the Blue Hills Range in the Foothills to NH’s White Mountains. Choose from one of four unique sites / outdoor spaces to best fit your camping needs; book a combination to reserve a section of the mountain, or book all four sites for total privacy or for events. Our Farm spans the northerly side of Hussey Mountain from the base to the summit. Guests are provided with private access to several miles of multi-use nature trails, multiple scenic lookouts, a three acre PYO blueberry maze, and a dock on our private eight acre pond with available boat rentals. At the 2WD shared parking area guests are provided with a outdoor shower with hot and cold water, a portable toilet, garden hose for washing, a power strip for charging devices, and a spigot with potable water for filling containers. Over two decades ago we created our first campsite for the purpose of hosting family and friends. Folks enjoyed camping on the mountain so much they often would choose our farm over traditional campgrounds. Hosting campers became a regular weekend event, and to accommodate more people we created three more sites spread out across the property. In 2020, we came across the Hipcamp app and started offering private reservations to the public. Since, we have been hosting campers on a daily basis and continuously improving our sites / infrastructure / views. We’re excited to see what the next two decades hold; come join us on the mountain! Things to do on the mountain SPRING-FALL include… Hiking on several miles of maintained nature trails marked with clear signage for easy day/night navigation. Relaxing/taking in the scenery from several scenic lookouts located on and around the mountain’s summit; combined they provide a 360-degree view spanning from the NH/ME Seacoast to the White Mountains of NH, to the Green Mountains of VT. Fishing, paddling, swimming, or relaxing on our dock. Bird/wildlife watching, berry picking, stargazing and leaf peeping. This is a place you can easily spend a few days and keep busy!

Lulu's 100 Acre Wood Cabin

98%

(74)

49mi from Portland · 1 site · Lodging

The 100 acre wood located in the hills of Oxford County is a peaceful get away from the hussle and bussle of todays world. Recently selectively logged we discovered views of local mountains and decided to take advantage of the clearings. The cabin was built for me to steal away from the house and enjoy the wildlife, quiet, stars and silence. It is too peaceful to keep to myself so come and enjoy all that Norway Maine and the surrounding area has to offer! Learn more about this land: Welcome to Lulu's. Where you can get a little crazy under the moon or you can take in the peace and serenity of the stillness in the woods. Depends on what you are looking for! No neighbors to infringe on your ideal get away. The large cabin has a welcoming front porch to enjoy the amazing sunrises over Streaked Mtn. 100 acres of privacy to hike, watch wildlife and just relax. Cabin has outside facilities. Off the grid-no electric or running water. Cell service is adequate. 1 gallon of fresh well water provided for drinking and 10 gallons for washing/cooking. Bring your own linens for a queen size bed, twin bunk beds and a full pull out couch. 2 pillows are supplied with a pillow protective cover and pillow case which are washed after each guest. Pots, pans and utensils, are onsite which are washed between campers; trash bags, compost bags, paper towels, dish soap, dish towels and a 2 burner propane stove(green canisters needed) and an older propane table top grill are provided. Camp fire grill on site if you prefer cooking over open flame. There are some battery operated light switches and solar lights in the camp and outhouse. Please remember you will be required to remove trash and outhouse composting bag. Thanks and hope to see you at Lulu's 100 acre wood! Downtown Norway has quaint shops to browse! Norway Lake has a public beach and boat dock. Many hiking trails nearby-Noyes Mtn, Patch Mnt, Singpole and Streaked Mtn to name a few. ATV trails (also can be used for off-road biking)onsite connect with other towns for many miles and hours of riding. Plenty of lakes/rivers for kayaking. Casino, race track and breweries for night life. Oxford Hills has much to offer.

Dixon's Coastal Maine Campground

36mi from Portland · 33 sites

Dixon's Campground stands out as a serene retreat nestled within twenty-six acres of pristine Maine woods, offering campers a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquility. Located in Cape Neddick, Maine, this campground provides an idyllic setting for those seeking a peaceful escape while still being close to vibrant coastal attractions. Just two miles south of Ogunquit Center and three miles north of York Beach, Dixon's Campground is perfectly situated for exploring the stunning local scenery. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from hitting the beautiful beaches and browsing charming outlet shops to discovering the thrill of sea kayaking and visiting the iconic Nubble Light. After a day of adventure, unwind poolside and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding woods. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, Dixon's Coastal Maine Campground is your gateway to the best of southern Maine. Experience the perfect blend of outdoor fun and serene relaxation, all within reach of the area's natural wonders and local attractions.

Public campgrounds near Portland

90%

(5)

Bradbury Mountain Campground

18mi from Portland · 34 sites · Tents, RVs · in Bradbury Mountain State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

A

Alexander

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hussey Mountain Tree Farm

How detailed the host was. He had a hatchet for us to use, had gallons of water prepared for us, and a tent with decorative light to liven the spot.

J

Jacob

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hussey Mountain Tree Farm

Awesome host and place to go camp and explore the mountain! Definitely suggest checking out the trail system!

M

Marshall

October 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hussey Mountain Tree Farm

My Wife, Fur Baby, and I stayed at Eben’s land for a weekend and had an Amazing Time!!! Let me start of by saying the host Eben was wonderful!!! He met us upon arrival and was so kind and friendly and welcoming. He goes out of his way to show you how things at the site work and truly makes sure you understand how to operate everything. He had given us a map of the property and showed us everything his land had to offer and asked us what exactly what we were looking to do. Upon us answering what it was we were looking to do his made suggestions to accommodate our needs. He made suggestions around the area that were dog friendly so we would be able to accommodate our fur baby as well. Which was very thoughtful! After we were all set with everything he left us to ourselves and what a beautiful peaceful place it is. We chose the following morning to take a hike around the property and were pleasantly pleased with all the Beautiful Views his property had to offer. There’s nothing better than lying on a hammock and looking at Mountain View’s of the Fall Foliage. It truly looked like views you would see in a book or a movie. They were truly breathtaking. It was so nice to see our fur baby run free in the wilderness and soak up all the new scents. He was in heaven. This place is relaxing, peaceful, and just what we needed to disconnect from the daily hustle and bustle of Life. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this place to others and we will most certainly be back without a doubt.

d

delilah

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hussey Mountain Tree Farm

this was our second year camping at this mountain, and we absolutely loved it!! the views from our site was incredible, and eben does a great job taking care of the campsites and seeing if we need anything:) we stayed at pretty much the top of the mountain, and there are definitely some steep spots, just to be cautious of if you have kids! but i 100% recommend!! we stayed at site 3🍁🍂

derek

October 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

3 nights at Hussey Mountain Tree Farm

This is a hidden gem, with trails an amazing view. Great host and all the amenities we needed. Will definitely come back when back in the area. Thanks Eben.

Roman

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lulu's 100 Acre Wood Cabin

Great location and setup. Nice escape into the woods with everything one would need to stay.

K

Kat

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Black Brook Acres

Beautiful spot, and Orianna provided just enough comfort for our crew in the yurt. And, she shared very well communicated details! The stars and moon rise were unparalleled in the open field, get there when the weather is clear if you can. All in all, a wonderful stay!

Lisa

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hussey Mountain Tree Farm

I couldn't have asked for a better experience. Eben was very gracious, attentive, and extremely knowledgeable. My boyfriend and I enjoyed our conversations with him. Hussey mountain is absolutley beautiful and magical. Each campsite was very private with tons of amenities. We will definitely be back in the future. If you love nature, I highly recommend this hipcamp!

J

Justin

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Black Brook Acres

The location was perfect, accommodations amazing, and the hosts went way out of their way to make sure our group was comfortable. The yurt is beautiful! Would highly recommend.

C

Carmen

October 2025

2 nights at Lulu's 100 Acre Wood Cabin

I loved Linda's cabin and land. The view was incredible. I could barely leave the porch! It was perfect. Peace and solace. Thanks Linda! See you again soon.

B

Ben

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lulu's 100 Acre Wood Cabin

Everything exceeded our expectations. The check in instructions were super clear and easy to follow, and the cabin was everything and more! We had our two dogs with us and they were able to be off leash while we were there and they LOVED it. A dreamy escape from everyday life!

A

Adrienne

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Black Brook Acres

Orianna's location is absolutely beautiful and remote, the yurt is appointed nicely--exactly as described. Everything was clean, Orianna was responsive to questions and provided additional items for the cold at our request. The outhouse was clean and well maintained.

Malorie

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Hussey Mountain Tree Farm

Camped all over the US and this was our favorite site yet. Be prepared for a half mile hike with 200 ft elevation gain to get to the site. Completely worth taking advantage of Eben’s offer to transport gear via his 4-wheeler. Views were amazing and the site could not be more prepped with everything you’d need short of a tent. Eben is the nicest guy and has taken great care of this site. If we are in the area again this will 100% be our first choice.

Stephen

October 2025

12 ft travel trailer

With kids

2 nights at Hussey Mountain Tree Farm

Eben reached out ahead of our arrival to ensure he could meet us and provide detailed instructions about the property’s layout, complete w/ a map & personalized advice on local attractions. Our primary goal was to relax & enjoy the hiking trails on the property. Eben provided clear directions for navigating the mountain & even provided a few links w/ hiking ideas & an ice cream recommendation later that evening. The next day, we set out to explore. My daughter was thrilled to navigate us through the blueberry bush maze. We also found a playground w/ basketball, bocce ball, & horseshoes—a fantastic little spot! The hike to the summit was memorable, & we appreciated the chance to relax in a hammock along the way. Campsite 3 was unoccupied, so we made a detour & enjoyed the beautiful views & hammocks there. My daughter particularly loved the spooky trail we encountered on our hike! This was the cleanest & most thoughtfully organized campsite I’ve ever experienced. The on-site porta potty was impressively maintained & the shower was excellent. The picnic table & additional cooking/prep table were both excellent &, most importantly, level! The campsite provided a charcoal grill, complete w/ a nice table beside it, & a hose running next to the fire pit. Eben was a wonderful host, & his property is simply spectacular. His ice cream recommendation was seriously some of the best we’ve ever had! I highly recommend stopping by for a visit—you won’t be disappointed!

E

Emily

September 2025

15 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Lake Auburn Community Forest

Loved this spot! Private and quiet. Great proximity to trails.

m

mike

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Hussey Mountain Tree Farm

Soooooo beautiful. I’d stay again in a heartbeat. Probably the best equipped site I’ve ever stayed at

H

Heather

September 2025

23 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hussey Mountain Tree Farm

We had a great time. Eben was a wonderful host, he replied right away to any questions I had before and during our stay. His directions were very helpful, and he greeted us right when we pulled in. The property itself was beautiful and the trails were easy to navigate. Everything was well thought out. There was plenty of space to prep for meals, lights that illuminated the site as well as solar lights all around the property. You can tell he really cares about the land, and wants everyone who visits to appreciate it as well. We will definitely be going back!

K

Kyle

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hussey Mountain Tree Farm

Eben was a fantastic host with a beautiful space. We will absolutely be back for future trips, the feeling of being "remote" while not needing to hike too far, and not being all that far from home is exactly what we were hoping for to disconnect for a while. Site was perfectly maintained and Eben provided plenty of additional support and amenities that would have made it even easier if needed. Thank you for sharing your space Eben, the ski terrain also looked sweet!

J

Jessica

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hussey Mountain Tree Farm

Eben was so accommodating and the sites were amazing! Really appreciate how maintained they were, everything was super accessible and he was so communicative and helpful. His property was just amazing. So many trails and beautiful views, highly recommend

J

Jenifer

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hussey Mountain Tree Farm

This is an incredible site, don't hesitate to book! Eben is a fantastic host, the site is so well maintained and the views are amazing! We had an amazing stay with our two dogs and would absolutely go back!

Nearby public parks

Browse national and state parks near Portland

90%

(5)

Bradbury Mountain State Park

Freeport, Maine

More campsites near Portland

Dixon's Coastal Maine Campground

36mi from Portland · 33 sites

Dixon's Campground stands out as a serene retreat nestled within twenty-six acres of pristine Maine woods, offering campers a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquility. Located in Cape Neddick, Maine, this campground provides an idyllic setting for those seeking a peaceful escape while still being close to vibrant coastal attractions. Just two miles south of Ogunquit Center and three miles north of York Beach, Dixon's Campground is perfectly situated for exploring the stunning local scenery. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from hitting the beautiful beaches and browsing charming outlet shops to discovering the thrill of sea kayaking and visiting the iconic Nubble Light. After a day of adventure, unwind poolside and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding woods. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, Dixon's Coastal Maine Campground is your gateway to the best of southern Maine. Experience the perfect blend of outdoor fun and serene relaxation, all within reach of the area's natural wonders and local attractions.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Portland with horseback riding 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.