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Hockomock Island

Hosted by Lisa · Woolwich, Maine

4 guests max · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 toilet

99%

74 reviews

Lisa is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

All to yourself

99% of recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp felt private.

My step Dad Bob ‘discovered’ the island in the 1970’s when he was escaping the rat race and looking to get ‘back to the land’. Over the course of three years he built the island house by floating cedar logs across the bay, using a come-along to bring the up to the land, debarked and prepped them for building and set about constructing his off-grid, solar powered home. All without power tools. Both my Mom and Bob were ardent environmentalists and peace advocates. For 20 years they lived year-round on the island and only left when their ages made it difficult to continue cutting/splitting/moving/burning wood and just the ordeal of living so remotely. Most visitors to the island agree the peaceful vibe continues and that is important to us.This is not for everyone! This property is a 40 acre private island in midcoast Maine situated between Bath and Wiscasset in Hockomock/Brookings bay(s). A causeway allows for vehicular access but there’s still a ~10 minute walk to the home. Mosquitoes galore in the summer months in the interior woods, but thankfully we have plenty of Off and head nets. There are deer, so there are ticks. Tuck in your pants and use repellent. No indoor toilet, but a nice outhouse out the back door. There could be mice, and spiders but there’s a generator and vacuum if it gets to you. This is tidal - which means there’s mud. About 3 hours before and after a high tide the water is accessible and there are several water craft for use (kayaks, SUP). Water is gentle and perfect for slow and peaceful exploring and swimming. And there are very few bugs out on the water! No A/C, unreliable internet and a 10 minute drive to civilization. (So if you’re still reading, maybe this could be the place for you?) Indoor ‘domestic’ water for cleaning and bathing (shower) and potable water brought in for drinking and cooking. Cookstove is used for thermosiphon method of heating and moving hot water. About 30 minutes after lighting a fire you will have hot water for cleaning/showers. And the water stays warm for up to a day after the last fire. You have to pump water daily, via a switch to trigger basement solar-powered pump, to fill the holding tanks on the second floor (repurposed beer kegs) from a cistern of rain water. 40 year old solar panels still run the pump (for water) and small LED lights inside. (Still interested?) It is gorgeous! In that very natural, rugged beauty of Maine and ‘back to nature’ way. Completely private. Except for some homes that can be seen from the north end, there are no buildings in sight from this south end house. All surrounding areas are ‘protected’. There are two buildings on the island about a mile apart, the south end house which is available for rent and a small north end cabin that is not. One side, the marsh side, has a narrow channel and at a low tide it resembles mainland making one question the definition of island. On a very high tide the marsh and even the causeway can flood. The opposite side is mud (low) and water (high). There are worm and clam diggers who use the island for jumping off points to the flats. These are hard working and colorful locals who have our blessing to use the land to get to their workplaces. The house is an off-grid log home built in the ‘70’s with kitchen, living room, bedroom and 2 entry areas. Large picture windows (old and showing it) from the kitchen/dining area and from the upstairs bedroom overlooking water. Living room with larger Garrison woodstove and two bench couches for additional sleeping. Kitchen is ‘fully equipped’ in that camping kind of way. The kitchen cookstove can be used for cooking and there is also a small propane powered cookstove (salvaged from an old sailboat). Essential cookware, dishes, utensils etc.; espresso pot; corkscrews! It’s important to note there is nothing fancy or polished with this property. The natural setting makes it what it is. If you want hot water, you must be comfortable/safe lighting a fire in the cookstove. If you’re sensitive to bugs, this isn’t the place for you. There is no high speed internet or air conditioning or even conventional electricity. But if you’re looking for private, natural, peaceful rest and relaxation this might work for you. Bath is the closest town (10 minutes) with a eclectic collection of bars, restaurants, coffee shop, boutiques, farmer’s market, museum. Two State parks (Reid & Popham) within half an hour and a fresh water lake (Nequasset) a few miles away. Portland, in one direction, and Boothbay Harbor in the other direction both 45 minutes. Brunswick (south) and Wiscasset (north) 20+ minutes.

What to expect

Moderate walk to site

Parking isn't available at the site. You will park a short distance away and walk to the site (5-10 mins)

4WD recommended

A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for best access.

Cabin

You'll have this Hipcamp all to yourself.

4 guests max

Toilet available

Pit toilet

Pets allowed

Off leash

No campfires

Absolutely no campfires!

Potable water available

Showers available

Hot water . Hot water is achieved only after lighting fire in cookstove and waiting 30+ minutes

Bins available

Compost bin, trash bin

Cooking equipment present

Private, stovetop or hot plate, cookware, cooking utensils, dishware, cutlery, sink or other dishwashing station

Picnic table absent

No wifi

Laundry absent

No laundry

Things to know

Getting there

Check in: After 3:00 PM

Check out: Before 12:00 PM

On arrival: Meet with Host

Access: Moderate walk

Cancellation policy:

Minimum nights: 3 nights

Accepts bookings: 6 months out

No wheelchair access

Max 2 vehicles

4WD recommended

During your trip

Follow the

Leave it better

Inclusion policyWe have a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination at Hipcamp. We are committed to helping our Host and Hipcamper communities be inclusive.

Select a site

Lodging

1 site

Back to the land - Private Island

99%

(85)

Cabin · Sleeps 4 · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 toilet

This is not for everyone! This property is a 40 acre private island in midcoast Maine situated between Bath and Wiscasset in Hockomock/Brookings bay(s). A causeway allows for vehicular access but there’s still a ~10 minute walk to the home. Mosquitoes galore in the summer months in the interior woods, but thankfully we have plenty of Off and head nets. There are deer, so there are ticks. Tuck in your pants and use repellent. No indoor toilet, but a nice outhouse out the back door. There could be mice, and spiders but there’s a generator and vacuum if it gets to you. This is tidal - which means there’s mud. About 3 hours before and after a high tide the water is accessible and there are several water craft for use (kayaks, SUP). Water is gentle and perfect for slow and peaceful exploring and swimming. And there are very few bugs out on the water! No A/C, unreliable internet and a 10 minute drive to civilization. (So if you’re still reading, maybe this could be the place for you?) Indoor ‘domestic’ water for cleaning and bathing (shower) and potable water brought in for drinking and cooking. Cookstove is used for thermosiphon method of heating and moving hot water. About 30 minutes after lighting a fire you will have hot water for cleaning/showers. And the water stays warm for up to a day after the last fire. You have to pump water daily, via a switch to trigger basement solar-powered pump, to fill the holding tanks on the second floor (repurposed beer kegs) from a cistern of rain water. 40 year old solar panels still run the pump (for water) and small LED lights inside. (Still interested?) It is gorgeous! In that very natural, rugged beauty of Maine and ‘back to nature’ way. Completely private. Except for some homes that can be seen from the north end, there are no buildings in sight from this south end house. All surrounding areas are ‘protected’. There are two buildings on the island about a mile apart, the south end house which is available for rent and a small north end cabin that is not. One side, the marsh side, has a narrow channel and at a low tide it resembles mainland making one question the definition of island. On a very high tide the marsh and even the causeway can flood. The opposite side is mud (low) and water (high). There are worm and clam diggers who use the island for jumping off points to the flats. These are hard working and colorful locals who have our blessing to use the land to get to their workplaces. The house is an off-grid log home built in the ‘70’s with kitchen, living room, bedroom and 2 entry areas. Large picture windows (old and showing it) from the kitchen/dining area and from the upstairs bedroom overlooking water. Living room with larger Garrison woodstove and two bench couches for additional sleeping. Kitchen is ‘fully equipped’ in that camping kind of way. The kitchen cookstove can be used for cooking and there is also a small propane powered cookstove (salvaged from an old sailboat). Essential cookware, dishes, utensils etc.; espresso pot; corkscrews! It’s important to note there is nothing fancy or polished with this property. The natural setting makes it what it is. If you want hot water, you must be comfortable/safe lighting a fire in the cookstove. If you’re sensitive to bugs, this isn’t the place for you. There is no high speed internet or air conditioning or even conventional electricity. But if you’re looking for private, natural, peaceful rest and relaxation this might work for you. Bath is the closest town (10 minutes) with a eclectic collection of bars, restaurants, coffee shop, boutiques, farmer’s market, museum. Two State parks (Reid & Popham) within half an hour and a fresh water lake (Nequasset) a few miles away. Portland, in one direction, and Boothbay Harbor in the other direction both 45 minutes. Brunswick (south) and Wiscasset (north) 20+ minutes.

Moderate walk to site

4WD recommended

No campfires

Toilet

Potable water

Pets allowed

Reviews

99% Recommend85 ratings · 74 reviews

Hockomock Island offers a serene and nature-filled escape, highly appreciated by visitors for its combination of tranquility and adventure. Guests often highlight the opportunity to disconnect in an off-grid setting while enjoying activities like kayaking and hiking amidst picturesque surroundings. The host, Lisa, is frequently praised for her hospitality and the well-equipped cabin that caters to a comfortable stay. While the presence of mosquitoes is noted, the overall experience remains overwhelmingly positive, with many guests eager to return.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Recommends

· October 2026

With kids

Love returning to this spot every year, thanks for sharing it with us Lisa! Watched the tide come in and out, and unplugged!!

Recommends

· September 2026

This is our second visit to Hockomock Island and I wish I could escape there every weekend. It's so relaxing, yet there's so much to do. In a day we would hike around the island, sit on the deck and watch the tide come in, kayak for hours, then spend the evening playing games in front of the wood stove. One day we ventured into Bath, a quaint little town about a 10 minute drive from the island. We got a couple coffees at Cafe Creme and a nice bottle of white wine across the street at Now You're Cooking. A little further down Route One, we stopped at Plant's Seafood and Ellie Mae's Farm Stand and got all of the ingredients we needed to make clam chowder. I cooked it on the propane stove and we ate it in the screened gazebo, overlooking the marsh while great blue herons and egrets were looking for their own dinner. As Lisa mentioned, there are all the typical bugs you expect in a wooded area near water, so be prepared for that and don't let the mosquitoes ruin your stay. Speaking of Lisa, she is an absolute delight. Honest, caring, and informative, she will make sure you are set up for a great stay. I've had a lot of great experiences from hip camp, but Lisa and Hockomock Island sit miles above the rest. Side note: we also had a lovely breakfast at Mae's Cafe & Bakery. If you're passing through Brunswick, the Brunswick Diner is a most stop. I have a matching Brunswick Diner sweatshirt and mug, I'm a little obsessed.

Recommends

· September 2026

Hocomock Island is a place made of absolute magic. If you are looking for a stay that is quiet, simple, filled with nature and steeped in history, as well as an amazing host Hockomock is the place for you! This was our third time staying and first time bringing our sweet 2 month old addition to our family along. Will certainly be coming back again and again.

Recommends

· August 2026

The Very Best Island Experience

With pets

Hockamock Island might be the coolest most special place I have ever stayed. My husband and I and our pups spent three days kayaking, exploring, swimming and playing in the mud at low tide. Lisa is amazing, met us to show us around upon arrival, and the cabin literally has everything you could need. The outhouse is one of the cleanest I have ever used and the kitchen shower was put to good use after playing outside all day. Other reviews had mentioned the mosquitoes on the hike in from the parking area but we wore light long sleeves and pants and had no issues. I did bring a thermacell for keeping bugs away on the porch but honestly with the breeze I dont think we needed it. I cannot recommend this cabin and the 40 acres of fun it provides enough. It feels so remote but also the town of Bath is 10 minutes away with groceries and a lovely farmers market on Saturday am! We hope we get the chance to stay here again!

Recommends

· August 2026

Paradise

With pets

If you’re debating booking this island retreat on Hockomock, I cannot recommend it enough! Our three dogs were in absolute doggy heaven—we only wish we could have stayed longer! Be sure to check the tides before planning any adventures - Lisa has the tidal charts right inside the camp. We spent one day kayaking winding through the marsh and another paddling around the surrounding islands - the views were genuinely spectacular. We even counted seven herons all at the same time. From sunrise to quiet, glowing sunset, it was the definition of the perfect getaway. Lisa met us when we arrived to walk us into the camp and explain everything, making sure we had all we needed and more. While you can take a full hot shower, the recent dry weather had us being conservative with water—though we were more than happy just rinsing off in the incredible stone shower! Beyond the stunning nature, the property has a stillness to it that feels almost surreal. There's a peaceful, ancient depth in the air—a quiet, lingering presence that those tuned into the unseen might catch a gentle whisper of, adding an extra layer of magic to the solitude. It is deeply restorative, beautiful, and peaceful. We will definitely be back next year. Thanks again, Lisa!

Recommends

· August 2026

Absolute heaven! It was my second visit, this time joined by some friends for a time and the rest spent with my dog for her birthday. The perfect place to imagine you’re in a world of its own.

Recommends

· August 2026

Sea birds, seals and tranquility

The tranquility of the island is perfect!. Lisa was so very helpful and explained the ins and outs of off grid living. Bugs exist in Maine so be prepared, if you are not, Lisa generously is prepared. The view, sunrises, sunsets and bird watching will fill your day. The binoculars at the house will come In handy for watching the seals at dusk- they get a bit rowdy- so funny.

Recommends

· July 2026

The Best Spot on Hipcamp!

We stayed for our anniversary this year and it’s hard to put into words how incredible this place is. Lisa is so kind and welcoming. The minute we got there we felt like we knew her. She gave us a run through of everything upon arrival. There’s a binder on the table that has all of the information so don’t worry if you can’t retain everything. Lisa shared her life experiences and the cabins story, which adds to the experience. There are books all around about Bob, his journey through life and how his experiences led him to the land that the cabin sits on, and eventually, bringing the cabin to life with love and labor that most only dream of accomplishing. We’ve stayed at many places, traveled to many states, and this is by far the most peaceful, most beautiful, and most relaxing place we’ve ever visited. It was an honor to be allowed to enjoy such an untouched piece of earth. There is plenty of everything you could need. Although you’re completely secluded, it’s very close to local restaurants, markets, and so many amazing antique shops. It really is the best of both worlds. I think we’ve found our yearly spot! Thank you Lisa (and family) for opening your home to us. Lisa was always available if we needed help and kind every time we talked. My only warning is that staying at the island makes it VERY difficult to return to reality. We can’t wait to go back!!

Recommends

· July 2026

Perfect Escape into Nature

With pets

Our return to Hockomock was just as spectacular as the first time. With our 8 month old son and 8 year old dog onboard, it was the perfect place to disconnect from the rest of the world and truly be with each other and nature. We spent most of our time at the cabin watching the tides, waking up with the sun, and kayaking alongside a seal while eagles soared overhead. Every day was in the 90s, but the breeze off the water kept us comfortable, whether we were relaxing on the deck or cooling off with a shower in the kitchen. :) We only left twice during our three night stay, once for Mile Beach and once for downtown Bath to enjoy live music and food trucks. A few helpful tips for future Hipcampers: 1. The mosquitoes can be intense on the walk in, so bring bug spray or a Thermacell. Once at the cabin they were much more manageable. 2. The hike to the cabin is part of the adventure. It can be challenging in the heat, but the destination is worth every step. 3. This is a true off grid experience, so come ready to embrace nature. 4. Kayak access depends on the tide and takes a little effort, but it is absolutely worth it. 5. Rolling bags or sturdy totes make hauling your gear much easier. If you are looking for an adventure and are not afraid to fully embrace nature in this dreamlike setting, this is the place for you!

Recommends

· June 2026

Lisa and Hockamock Island were both amazing, and it was a privilege to get to spend time at such a beautiful site and appreciate the nature, and the love and effort that went into building and living in the home. Would stay again in a heartbeat.

Recommends

· June 2026

Midcoast Maine Island Escape

With pets

We had a wonderful stay on Hockomock Island. Lisa’s cabin is a true gem. The cabin has so much soul and history. The location itself was an excellent escape into nature with total isolation on the island. Our dog was thrilled to have trail access to a whole island. Woolwich was a great base location for our day trips to Freeport and exploring beaches in the area. We would certainly stay again.

Recommends

· June 2026

What a treasure

With pets

Absolutely in love with island and cant wait to go back. Lisa is wonderful, and very helpful.

Recommends

· May 2026

Hockomock

With pets

Hockomock island is a very special place. Lisa is a really great host and nice to talk to. Our time was so quiet and peaceful. Kayaking around in the bay was dreamy. Exploring the island was fun. And waking up every day to that view, priceless.

Recommends

· September 2025

With kids

A peaceful spot to slow down and watch the tides come in and out. Great birding and wildlife. We love it here.

Recommends

· September 2025

With pets

Such a special beautiful place. This was the second year I spent a few days on this island and the end always comes too soon. Sure there are mosquitos and minimal electricity…but the sacredness of this land and the magic of witnessing the tides shift throughout the day take the precedent of living in tune with nature. Lisa is a great host and I cannot wait to return next year.

Recommends

· September 2025

The most special island

With pets

Staying on the island was truly unforgettable! Lisa was so helpful in explaining how things worked and also the stories behind certain aspects! This was particularly interesting as this is an island and cabin with a beautiful and rich history. Every inch of the home is so intentional, and there are also books around where you can learn more about how it was built. It can be hard to find places where dogs are welcome, so it’s also so appreciated that Lisa allows pups. Our Arlo absolutely loved having the freedom to explore this island, and by the time he wanted to come inside in the evening, he was exhausted in the best way! We visited the other end of the island where there is an additional cabin that doesn’t get rented out, and spent some time enjoying the scenery from a rock overlooking the ocean. We absolutely intend to return next summer.

Not recommend

· September 2025

With pets

Don’t have enough positive things to say about this spot!!! It’s a secret gem and I hope it always stays that way. Every little inch of this place is magic. My boyfriend, pup and I will always cherish those lovely mornings on the top deck!! Truly a special place. 10/10 recommend, thank you Lisa!! We would love to come back

Recommends

· August 2025

Hockomock <3

With pets

What a treat it was to spend some time on Hockomock Island! We absolutely wondered at the creativity and craft that went into making the off grid lodging. Lisa is such a knowledgeable, kind and attentive host. The care she puts into maintaining the island is obvious! Highlights of our stay included heating our water for warm showers, cooking on the wood stove and all our time just existing on the deck. Such a special place for so many reasons! We are very grateful it was shared with us.

Recommends

· August 2025

With pets

We stayed 3 delightful nights on the island and now know why so many reviewers describe it as magical. We loved the birds and seals that wowed us each day as we relaxed on the large deck. The scenery surrounding us and the solitude were just what we needed. Kayaks and trails are steps away too. We found the house (and the people who built it) fascinating, which added to our stay. Lisa could not be more accommodating: easy to reach, very informative, and really nice to talk to.

Recommends

· August 2025

Secluded Getaway

Group trip

Our stay here gave us the unique opportunity to experience what it would be like to live on an island in an off the grid cabin. We treasured the opportunity to be close to nature & soak in the beautiful bay views. Access to the cabin is via a path that takes you across the causeway & up a hill past rocky ledges along the spine of the island to the southern end, a 15 min walk (10 with a small vehicle that can cross the causeway). We were grateful to have read & followed the advice to apply bug spray prior to the walk...we forgot on our way out and paid the price! Once at the cabin, the bugs were not bad while sitting on the deck. The cabin is well stocked. Lisa even put vases of flowers inside & out! We only needed our food, clothes & books, though we were glad we brought along our hammock with tree straps. Be sure any digital books are fully downloaded. Verizon network was often "SOS Only" or 1 bar. The sleeping area is upstairs & requires being comfortable climbing rather steep open stairs with a railing starting partway up. The reward is a comfortable queen size bed with stunning views! The clean outhouse is a short walk up a small hill behind the cabin. TP & sanitizer is provided. While the cabin itself doesn't provide privacy for more than one family, you're allowed to pitch a tent which would make it possible to enjoy the island with another couple. Thank you, Lisa, for all you do so that others can enjoy this very special property. We hope to return!

Recommends

· July 2025

The most amazing time. It was overcast and foggy and we loved every second of it, truly. Lisa was amazing and as many others have said the story behind the cabin is just as exceptional as she is. Thank you, we will be back!!

Recommends

· July 2025

Complete privacy on the island and the cabin was so light-filled and magical. The cool mornings (july) were perfect for cooking breakfast on the wood cookstove and the hot water it generates made for a delightful shower in the homemade stone shower. I could go on and on about all the wonderful things but they are too many to list. I’ll mention some of the downsides i experienced that might matter to some adhd/autistic/hsp/or other sensitive folks who are looking to unwind: there are little flashing lights on the solar batteries in the bedroom but you can stuff shirts around them to mostly block the light. There is, at least in july, the constant hum of distant traffic on rt 1. There was also an annoying generator running almost constantly across the marsh. There were those stinky trees that people hang in their rearview mirrors in the outhouse and the stench carried on the breeze and clung to my nose hairs even when i went into town. Theres nasty dawn dish soap in the kitchen that makes your hands stink for the rest of the day, so you might want to bring your own soap. And lastly, not related to sensory sensitivities but folks should know not to expect the shower to be private. Its in the kitchen and theres no curtain. All of that said, it was totally worth it and i would highly recommend anyone stay here who wants total privacy but not total isolation, as town is only 10 minutes away.

Recommends

· July 2025

With pets

This is one of the most beautiful places I have been. The island and the house holds a beautiful energy that embraces you like a great big hug. Lisa is a gracious host and the whole experience is one I won’t forget. 5 stars for this gem!

Recommends

· June 2025

Group trip

Our family of four had a fabulous stay on Hockamock Island. The land and the solar-powered house were even more gorgeous than in the photos. In every direction you can only see pristine and preserved Maine coast islands, and the tides coming in and out. Staying in the off the grid solar house was a lot of fun, and Lisa has outfitted it with everything you'll need. We brought a tent, and with the bed and couch could easily sleep the whole family. Our older son actually slept in the screened-in gazebo! We went to Reid State Park one day, which is only 30 minutes away and is a beautiful beach, Popham Beach is also close and is one of the nicest beaches around. This is a unique place and we're so happy we discovered it and had a chance to meet Lisa as well.

Recommends

· June 2025

Tucking ourselves away

With pets

My dog and I spent 4 nights on Hockomock Island and it was the perfect reset. The house was quiet and has such a good personality! I have dreams of an indoor garden patch now. Our time was spent mostly roaming the trails, paddleboarding, and resting. We will be back!

Recommends

· April 2025

With kids

My wife, nine year old daughter, and I stay for three nights. We had a wonderful time. Lisa's land is a magical place. It was a perfect, cozy, adventure for our family. I strongly recommend it. We definitely want visit again in the future.

Recommends

· October 2024

Absolutely amazing!

With pets

Lisa was so welcoming and the island is truly a magical place. We did not want to come home!

Recommends

· September 2024

With pets

To say we love visiting Lisa's island would be an understatement. We've returned every year since she started renting. The location is pure magic and is now our "home away from home" vacation (we live a rather rustic lifestyle). We recommend it to anyone looking for an off-the-grid retreat.

Recommends

· August 2024

Perfect, Private, Waterfront Peace

Very private and so quiet. The island seal neighbors were a highlight as well as the kayaks. I would bring less as I didn’t use most of my backpack items. Host Lisa was helpful and full of history. The stove warmed shower is worth the wait! A one of a kind experience we will never forget!

Recommends

· August 2024

Another great stay

With pets

Another great stay! Excellent retreat for privacy and relaxation for those of us who value nature and being in a primitive, remote setting. Lisa is an excellent host.

Location

Woolwich, Sagadahoc, Maine, United StatesTo respect the Host's privacy, the precise address of this land will be provided after booking

Hockomock Island

Things to know

Select a site

Lodging

Back to the land - Private Island

Reviews

Location

Hosted by Lisa P.

Things to do nearby

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