Camping in Maine

With rocky shores, sandy beaches, and forested mountains, Vacationland is made for campers.

96% (8914 reviews)
  1. Maine
96% (8914 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Maine

Community favorites in Maine

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in Maine

Stories from the community

Under $50

Star Hosts in Maine

12 top campgrounds in Maine

97%
(1744)

Four Acre Woods Campground

14 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres ¡ Deer Isle, ME
A beautiful island campground thickly forested with spruce, fir, and birch, Four Acre Woods was created over 60 years ago on Sunshine Island, Maine. Under the name Sunshine Campground, it hosted people from all over the world and delivered the spirit and essence of this ancient, abundant land that so many ancestors had roamed and celebrated before. It was open to the public through to the 90s, but then sat alone for 15 years, waiting for someone to revive it and bring it back to the world. Then one day, Caleb and Wolf met on a bus, heading south from Down East Maine, where they instantly connected and joined forces. They worked together redressing a home in Stonington for visitors to experience and became brothers while doing so. Eventually, the presence and opportunity of the campground caught their attention and after working out the technicalities, they worked together to bring this beautiful land and campground back to the people under its new life and name, Four Acre Woods. After opening on July 1st 2020, the land is finally back to sharing all of her beauty and spirit with the people. So, Welcome Home. Sincerely, - Four Acre Woods Caretakers
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$52.20
 / night
99%
(574)

The Point

7 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres ¡ Gouldsboro, ME
The Point is located in Gouldsboro, in Downeast Maine on the Schoodic Peninsula near the Schoodic portion of Acadia National Park on occupied Wabanaki land. The point is our home, offered to guests as a place for seekers of peace and solace to gain a better relationship and appreciation with nature in a world that has forgotten the importance and connection we all have with the planet that sustains us. A priority here for me is keeping this land pristine and respected. Our mission to save and protect our natural environment and keep it natural and wild can only be accomplished with the active mindfulness of you. We aim to prove that hipcamp can be a magical experience for private landowners and campers alike, to provide a means of temporal community and beneficial alternative to traditional campgrounds; one that does not degrade the environment and break the peace that small towns still contain. Please be mindful of the trash you generate and mindful of the noise you are making— we aim to provide seekers of peace a *quiet* time in nature. Together we are here to be an example to others of what mindful camping can look like in this changing world. Thanks for caring to come, see, explore, learn and being apart of the solution! <3 We hope to hear from you <3
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$89
 / night
100%
(1011)

Slippery Rock Trails LLC

6 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents400 acres ¡ 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.
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$50
 / night
99%
(185)

Magical Mountain River retreat

5 sites ¡ RVs, Tents500 acres ¡ Rumford, ME
Scars in the polished granite streambed tell the story of saw mills from the 19th century. Not far from the foundation of one of the more established farmsteads of the era, this campsite is tucked away from the road down by the rushing Bull Branch of the Sunday River. Whether you bake on the rocks after dipping, or toss a fly in a quiet pool, the river will soothe your soul. Explore endless mountains streams, trails to the Appalachian Trail, and remote dirt roads in the heart of the Mahoosucs from your secluded walk-in low impact tent site with privy. Deep swimming holes and trout fishing beckon. There are three sites: #1: Riverside (more secluded),#2:Hillside(closest to the parking), and #3: Fireside. The hillside and fireside sites can combine for a group although are at a short distance from each other. If weather conditions permit, all campers can share the fire circle and table. The Riverside has its own table.
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$45
 / night
100%
(852)

True Serendipity Homestead

10 sites ¡ RVs, Tents25 acres ¡ Hancock, ME
NOTE: GOOSE PARADISE, FROG NOOK, RABBIT RUN, and DUCK HILL (Parking is available on these four sites) NOTE: BEAR HOLLOW, SQUIRREL HIDEAWAY, AND BOBCAT ISLAND (You will need to transport your camping gear to these three sites). This homestead operates solely on solar power and is completely off-grid, featuring chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys. Guests can savor fresh eggs, as well as vegetables from the greenhouse and garden, which they are welcome to pick themselves. Additionally, there is a natural spring-fed pond spanning 2 acres, where guests can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, rowing, and pedal boating with all equipment, including paddles and life jackets, provided on site. All sites are within walking distance of a very clean restroom, which is equipped with a flush toilet, a sink with running water, and a solar-powered light that turns on automatically. Additionally, there is an ample supply of toilet tissue and paper towels, and it also smells good too! NOTE: NO SHOWER AVAILABLE Each tent site features a fire pit and a picnic table. Guests can take pleasure in the hiking trails or venture into the woods to discover the natural beauty of this 25-acre homestead. Relax by the pond and watch for beavers, raccoons, blue herons, and even eagles. Enjoy the sound of the natural spring well as its ice-cold water is pumped to the homestead using solar power. Searching for and eating blueberries, wild strawberries, and blackberries can be a delightful activity. Savor the cool evenings by stargazing, observing fireflies, and listening to the chorus of frogs and owls. Conveniently located just minutes away are Home Depot, Walmart, various restaurants, shopping centers, Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park, antique stores, the historic Downtown Ellsworth, and the ocean!!
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$55
 / night
98%
(315)

Tir na nOg Farm

6 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents30 acres ¡ 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.
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$50
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98%
(57)

Cabin Creek Farm

9 sites ¡ Tents10 acres ¡ Cranberry Isles, ME
Welcome to Cabin Creek Farm located on Great Cranberry Island Maine. The beauty and tranquility of our offshore Maine island are what many visitors hope to experience but few actually do. If you're hoping to exhale and slow down while being surrounded by nature, and quiet, we're your perfect spot! We are located just offshore from Mount Desert Island home to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor and other nearby towns. Catch a passenger ferry (BOAT) (sorry can't bring vehicles) out to Great Cranberry Island, Maine from: Northeast Harbor, (search: Beal and Bunker Ferry) Exact schedules shown in individual camp site descriptions. OR FROM Manset/Southwest Harbor. (search: Cranberry Cove Ferry) Exact schedules shown in individual camp site descriptions. (Note: Ferry reservations are NOT needed just get aboard and you pay once underway. You can view exact ferry departure times on individual camp descriptions.) Our camp is located on a quaint pristine, offshore Maine island. We are an easy 1 mile walk from the ferry landing once you arrive. NEW! We just added a shared use golf cart for our guests to get to and from camp! Great Cranberry Island is a beautiful peaceful place where the pace of life slows, nature abounds and the stars are bright. There is a small well stocked general store,, a museum, cafe and miles of pristine trails and rocky beaches to explore. Bicycles can be brought on the passenger ferries and are a great way to get around and further explore the island. Our camp is on the site of our former organic farm called Cabin Creek Farm overlooking the ocean (a tidal estuary called the pool), where we grew flowers, herbs and veggies. You can even kayak directly to us at high tide. The sites are a combo of a mixed manicured deciduous and conifer forest and open spaces with ocean views. "Once you have slept on an island, you'll never be quite the same!"
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$64
 / night
100%
(57)

Camp Nepenthe

1 site ¡ RV, Tent1 acre ¡ East Boothbay, ME
A gracefully designed switchback driveway leads you to a cleared level landing. The spot is elevated nestled in among hardwood trees where you can pitch a tent or park a self-contained RV (No larger than 24'). Due to the switchback design of the driveway, a combination car/truck and towed camper configuration will not work. East Boothbay is quiet, relaxing, and beautiful. Be sure to stop by East Boothbay General Store for delicious house made sandwiches, salads, pizza, a selection of beers and wine; eat in on the small porch or take away for a picnic. Take a short walk along the narrow quiet road to the ocean where waves are crashing on the rocks. Don't miss the gorgeous sunsets-simply spectacular. Or just relax at the site and enjoy the beauty of the nature that surrounds you. It's a short 10 minute drive to Boothbay Harbor for whale and puffin watches, great restaurants, sunset and reggae cruises, and sailing trips. The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is another must see-as it is New England's largest botanical garden.
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$26
 / night
Booked 2 times

Pinederosa Campground

57 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents37 acres ¡ Wells, ME
Located in Maine’s Friendliest City, Pinederosa Campground has been pleasing guests for more than 30 years. Now, new owners Jeremy and Jenna Reynolds pledge to continue the tradition of friendliness with even more campsites and more amenities. Swim, Fish and Hike near the Seashore We have tent camping and RV sales too! All secluded sites are shaded by tall trees and feature gorgeous scenery, a fire pit, and picnic table. Delight in 37 Acres of Forest Amenities Drive down a lovely tree-lined road to be greeted by picturesque stone walls and rhododendrons. Find serenity in the pond, the lighted fountain, and the banks of the Ogunquit River. Refresh yourself in the heated swimming pool. Plus, we are just 3 miles from white sand beaches! Things to Do Have fun hiking with your doggie right here at Pinederosa. Fish in the Ogunquit River – it borders the campground. Or hop in your car to visit nearby parks, beaches, farmers’ markets, and the historic locations in Wells. We are just 3 miles from white sand beaches.
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$50
 / night
98%
(29)

Island View At Kiwanis Beach

3 sites ¡ Lodging50 acres ¡ Standish, ME
Enjoy unforgettable sunrises and sunsets at your own 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.
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$99
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Available this weekend

Dog-friendly getaways

Other options in Maine

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

Camping in Maine guide

Overview

There's much more to Maine than lighthouses, lobster shacks, and sandy beaches. The northernmost state in New England packs in surprising variety, from the rocky islands and seaside resorts of the Atlantic shore to the forests and mountains of the Appalachian Mountains. Campers can take their pick of 32 state parks and one epic national park, filled with lakes, woodlands, and beaches to hike, bike, climb, and kayak. "Vacationland" pulls in the summer crowds, especially along the coast, but our pick is fall, when the northern highlands are ablaze with foliage.

Where to go

Aroostook & the Highlands

Maine’s mountainous north is the stuff that hiker’s bucket lists are made of. The sprawling wilderness of Baxter State Park is the starting point of the epic Appalachian Trail and home to Maine’s highest peak—the 5,267-foot Mount Katahdin. Miles of hiking trails run through the highlands, along with some of the state’s best snowmobiling and cross-country skiing trails. To get on the water, head to Moosehead Lake, or try paddling and backcountry tent camping along the Allagash Wilderness Waterway.

Maine Lakes & Mountains

The hills and valleys of western Maine are peppered with high peaks and hundreds of glacial lakes, affording plenty of opportunities for a back-to-nature camping experience. Drive the High Peaks Scenic Byway for some of the most spectacular views, enjoy family camping at Sebago Lake State Park, or check into an RV park near Bethel, Naples, or Lewiston. In winter, rent a cozy ski chalet and hit the ski resorts of Sugar Loaf, Shawnee Peak, and Sunday River.

Southern Maine Coast

When summer temperatures soar, some of the most popular Maine campgrounds and beaches are found along the southwest shore. Head to the beach towns of Kennebunkport, Freeport, and Portland for old-fashioned seaside fun; go boating or kayaking around Casco Bay; then snag an RV site or cabin rental at the oceanfront campground in Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park.

Downeast & Acadia

Maine’s only national park, Acadia National Park, is the headline act of DownEast, the state’s rugged and rocky southeastern coast. Opt to stay on the mainland at Bar Harbor and head over to admire the park’s historic lighthouses and ocean views, or choose from multiple camping areas on the islands. Further north, the 15 coastal parklands of Cobscook Shores have picnic tables, boat launches, and backcountry camping sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Maine is an excellent destination for camping, offering a diverse range of landscapes and outdoor experiences. From coastal campgrounds to lush forests, the state boasts numerous public and private camping options for both tent and RV campers. Maine's natural beauty, including Acadia National Park, Baxter State Park, and the famous Appalachian Trail, provide ample opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, canoeing, and fishing. To explore some of the best camping options in Maine, check out Hipcamp. Keep in mind that the camping season in Maine is typically from May to October, with peak season falling between June and August. During the off-season, some campgrounds may be closed or have limited services available.

Yes, there is free camping in Maine, particularly in the state's vast public lands, such as the North Maine Woods and the Downeast Lakes Land Trust. These areas offer primitive, dispersed camping opportunities with limited or no facilities. Keep in mind that you should always practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment when camping in these areas. Additionally, some locations may require a small fee or permit for access, so it's essential to research specific areas before your trip. For more information on camping in Maine, visit Hipcamp.

No, it is not legal to camp anywhere in Maine. Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds, state parks, and national forests. In some cases, you can camp on private land with the landowner's permission. Wild camping, also known as dispersed or primitive camping, is allowed in some areas of Maine, such as the White Mountain National Forest and the Appalachian Trail. However, it is essential to follow the specific rules and regulations for each area where you plan to camp. You can find more information about camping in Maine on Hipcamp.

Boondocking, also known as dry camping or dispersed camping, refers to camping without any hookups or amenities, typically in remote areas or on public lands. In Maine, boondocking usually means camping on public lands, such as national forests or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas, where you can camp for free or with minimal fees. Boondocking in Maine allows campers to enjoy the state's natural beauty, solitude, and wildlife while being self-sufficient and leaving no trace. Some popular boondocking areas in Maine include the North Maine Woods and remote parts of Downeast Maine. It's essential to follow Leave No Trace principles and local regulations when boondocking to ensure these pristine areas are preserved for future generations.

For the best fall colors in Maine, plan your visit during late September to early October. This timing typically coincides with peak foliage in various parts of the state, including Acadia National Park and the Maine Highlands. For the most accurate fall foliage predictions, check out Hipcamp's interactive foliage map.

Top parks in Maine

Top regions in and near Maine