The best camping in Maine

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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.

96% (11K) 9,424 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Maine

Four Acre Woods Island Campground

1. Four Acre Woods Island Campground

97%
(1836)
Deer Isle, ME · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Tucked among spruce, fir, and birch on Sunshine Island in Deer Isle–Stonington, Four Acre Woods began more than 60 years ago as a small, family-run campground known as Sunshine Campground. Travelers from across the world visited this quiet island forest, drawn to its raw beauty and the peaceful energy that generations before us had loved and cared for. The campground eventually closed in the 1990s and sat untouched for over 15 years—its trails, clearings, and old campsites slowly reclaimed by the woods. The land waited, quietly, for someone to bring it back to life. In the years that followed, Caleb, a longtime local operator on the island, took interest in the property. Recognizing both its history and its potential to offer people a deeper experience of Deer Isle’s natural beauty, he began the process of carefully restoring and reopening the land. Working season by season, Caleb rebuilt the sites, added new infrastructure, re-established utilities, and designed a campground that honors the land’s roots while offering a comfortable, modern, and nature-forward experience for today’s guests. In July 2020, the property reopened under a new name: Four Acre Woods. Today, it blends the spirit of the original Sunshine Campground with thoughtful stewardship, simple comforts, and a deep respect for the forest that surrounds it. Visitors once again gather under the birches and spruces—sharing campfires, slow mornings, quiet nights, and the timeless island calm that makes this land so special. So— Welcome Home. Sincerely, The Caretakers of Four Acre Woods
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The Howling Woods

2. The Howling Woods

96%
(273)
Southwest Harbor, ME · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
A mystical 7 acres of mossy woods on the edge of Acadia National Park. Listen for coyotes, owls and even loons on the lake. We are just a 1.5 mile walk from the border of the Park. Just a short drive from the most popular spots. Yet even at the height of summer, it’s really peaceful here on the quiet side of the island. Sometimes called the wild side :)
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Slippery Rock Trails LLC

3. Slippery Rock Trails LLC

100%
(1113)
Greene, ME · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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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Camden Hills State Park

4. Camden Hills State Park

100%
(7)
State park in Maine · 107 sites
Discover the scenic vistas and outdoor adventures at Camden Hills State Park.
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Cobscook Bay State Park

5. Cobscook Bay State Park

100%
(7)
State park in Maine · 127 sites
Discover Cobscook Bay State Park's tidal beauty and diverse wildlife.
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Twilight Timber

6. Twilight Timber

88%
(4)
Ellsworth, ME · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Twilight Timber is a secluded forest haven tucked into the heart of Down East Maine. As the sun dips below the trees, the woods come alive with the soft rustle of leaves and the crackle of a welcoming campfire. Despite its peaceful seclusion, Twilight Timber is conveniently located—just a 3-minute drive from the Otis Country Store for essentials and only 15 minutes from the heart of Ellsworth, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and plenty of local charm. Just minutes away, the Green Lake National Fish Hatchery provides public access for launching kayaks and canoes, making it easy to explore the serene waters and spot local wildlife. Come autumn, Twilight Timber transforms into a vibrant canvas of color. Maine’s legendary fall foliage surrounds you in fiery reds, golden yellows, and deep oranges, while the cool, crisp evenings invite cozy campfires and warm layers. Whether you're chasing quiet mornings, starlit nights, or the magic of the changing seasons, Twilight Timber is your gateway to forest serenity. Please note: This is an off-grid experience. There is no Wi-Fi, electricity, or plumbing, but a non-potable water supply is available for washing and cleaning. Guests must bring their own portable toilet and be prepared to pack in and pack out responsibly. The property is still in the early stages of development.
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Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss

7. Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss

96%
(397)
Penobscot, ME · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Come explore real Maine away from the crowds of Mount Desert Island/Acadia National Park/Bar Harbor at our sites at Wildberry Farm (Penobscot), Blueberry Fields Forever (Blue Hill) or Quiet Cove (Stonington)! Ask the host for tons of local recommendations, including best places to swim, hike, eat, or even have a super local experience and hop the Mail Boat out to Isle au Haut (out of Stonington Harbor 30+min drive) and explore the beautiful trails and beaches of an even more remote island off the Maine coast!
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The Point

8. The Point

99%
(657)
Gouldsboro, ME · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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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Hidden Valley Nature Center

9. Hidden Valley Nature Center

95%
(547)
Jefferson, ME · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Midcoast Conservancy’s Hidden Valley is 1,000 acres of protected land in Jefferson, Maine. It is rich with a variety of habitat and terrain, including over a mile of shorefront on Little Dyer Pond, nearly 25 miles of multi-use trails are great for hiking, birding, and exploring. Try our rolled and groomed cross country ski trails in the winter. Hidden Valley is a Community Forest, part of over 16,000 acres protected and stewarded by Midcoast Conservancy, a non-profit. A portion of the booking fees supports the organization’s mission to protect and restore vital lands and waters in midcoast Maine on a scale that matters. NOTE: ALL of the cabins and campsites are walk-in only. There is no overnight camping allowed in the parking lot.
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Lily Bay State Park

10. Lily Bay State Park

100%
(4)
State park in Maine · 91 sites
Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Lily Bay State Park.
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White Mountain National Forest

11. White Mountain National Forest

97%
(87)
National forest in New Hampshire · 833 sites
Find a variety of hiking trails, camping experiences, and scenic views in this New England forest.
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Lamoine State Park

12. Lamoine State Park

100%
(3)
State park in Maine · 64 sites
This waterfront park on Frenchman’s Bay is close to Arcadia, Bar Harbor, lighthouses, and kayaking.
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Moosehead Lake

13. Moosehead Lake

100%
(3)
Park in Maine · 69 sites
Moosehead Lake: A Natural Gem with Endless Adventure and Scenic Campsites.
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Elmer's Cove

14. Elmer's Cove

97%
(578)
Edmunds Township, ME · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
- my location is your vacation - 450 feet of cove frontage as part of historic and culturally relevant "Anthony's Beach" and adjacent to Cobscook Bay State Park. Paved boat launch next door, with a dock over there. Undisturbed forest surrounds my land, thick stands of trees along the road and all around. Maine classes this type of property as Remote Primitive camping. Take out your own trash, small bags for gas station trash cans, and bring some water. People marvel at the property and relax. Hand carry launch very close to the shore embankment campsites. This scant-settled area of coastal Maine is a necessary stop on your journey and meet the world's first temporary housing celebrity. #Next to Cobscook Bay State Park!# #Voted Routinely in HipCamp's Top Few Best Campsites in Maine# 4 Sites - 2 hike in tent sites, 2 further from the shore and 3/4 for RVs, 2 big, 2 smaller RVs or vans. Good clearance on driveway - no 4WD needed. sites (tent area 9x14): 1 and 5 best for tents; 3 and 4 for bigger RVs. All sites generally levelled w/fire pits. (firewood included) Only picnic area site lacks picnic table, all others have one. Book a specific site, or ask me which. Open interior land, privacy from road, - clothing-optional inquiries welcomed. Dark nights for star gazing, 20-foot tidal range - strong currents, be careful kayaking and boating, mid-tide and higher it's good swimming here. Carry in here, or launch for free next door. Good cell signal, (Verizon, AT & T) Cell tower 1.2 miles away. Smart phone hot-spot works for me. GPS: ELMER'S COVE CAMPGROUND - Google Maps works best around here. Video - YouTube: "Elmer's cove" ~make Elmer's Cove your wilderness gateway~
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Flatrock on the River

15. Flatrock on the River

99%
(83)
Winterport, ME · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Quiet getaway that will allow you to forget about the craziness of life. 28 aches with a beautiful river running along the edge. Kayaking, swimming, fishing and more right on site. Arcadia national park only and hours' drive. Fort Knox only 15 minutes away. Great salmon and bass fishing in Swan Lake only 20 mins away.
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Big Moose Inn Cabins & Campground

16. Big Moose Inn Cabins & Campground

94%
(44)
Millinocket, ME · 58 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Big Moose Inn Cabins & CampgroundIrving O. Hunt and his brother Lyman built some rough camps on Millinocket Lake before they became interested in the Nesowadnehunk Stream region. Whether or not their old camps were at the same site as the present camps on Millinocket Lake we do not know.The Millinocket Lake Camps, known today as Big Moose Inn, are located on a narrow spit of land separating Ambejejus Lake and Millinocket Lake. Before a dam controlled Ambajejus’ water level, it was possible to pole up the short stream from Millinocket Lake into Ambejejus.Fred Spencer build the camps, originally named Camp Eureka, in 1899 or 1900 and ran them with his brother. With the founding of Millinocket only a few years earlier and lumbering roads nearing Katahdin, the two lakes became more easily accessible. Camp Eureka was advertised as the only camp reachable by both boat (from Norcross) and road (from Millinocket). In 1905, the rate was $1.50 per day, meals included. Spencer also claimed the lakes had no flies or mosquitoes during spring and summer- a phenomenon caused by the way winds blow across the lakes, which makes it difficult for insects to gain a foothold.The camps’ name changed to Camp Spencer and later to Spencer’s Camps. Around 1929 the lease was transferred to Elmer Woodworth, who lived with his wife on a nearby island while they operated the camps. Elmer, a well-known guide, trapped over the winter, and his wife served as the camp cook. The couple soon renamed the camps Millinocket Lake Camps and Trading Post. They also maintained an outlying camp on Sandy Stream for their guests. In 1941, a major fire broke out in the area. The Woodworths saved the camps by wetting them down, but lost their island home when a stray spark jumped the cove. There is some evidence that, for a short time, a gentleman named Johnny Given either held the lease or managed the camps for the Woodworths. Except for that brief change the Woodworths operated the camps for many years until they passed the lease on to their son Ray, who ran them with his wife Muriel.In 1977, the lease was transferred to Bob and Frederica (“Teddy”) Boynton, who in 1981 sold the trading post to Erwin and Maureen Bacon. The Boyntons retained the sporting camp operation and later added a public restaurant. Teddy renamed the camps Big Moose Inn. Bob and his son Bruce made many renovations to the camps, while Teddy decorated and furnished them. The Boynton Family has remained involved in the success of the inn and restaurant. After Teddy’s death in 1991, management passed to Bruce and his sister Laurie, but Bob and other family members are still very involved.The dam separates the flowages of the two lakes. Millinocket Lake is about eight feet above its original level, and Ambajejus is now some 21 feet above its original level. Today several West Branch rafting companies make the inn their seasonal center of operations.At Big Moose, we bring you a rare blend of friendly service and lovely surroundings that successfully reflects our unique personality. Located on Millinocket Lake, Big Moose is the closest full service accommodations to Baxter State Park. Our central Katahdin Region lodging offers easy access to many of Baxter State Park's magnificent natural resources.Our Katahdin lodging packages consist of inn rooms, suites, lakefront and trailside cabins, and campgrounds. Fredericka's restaurant offers casual fine dining between two lakes while the Loose Moose Bar & Grille offers comfort food after a long day outdoors.-Dine in our newly remodeled dining room with friends and family. Our authentic solid oak tables and chairs make this room adaptable to any decor you choose when hosting weddings, reunions or anniversaries. A great place for corporate retreats and workshops. Our new side dining room offers intimacy and privacy for gatherings of 25 or less. Call to reserve it for your special celebration.•Big Moose Vacation Packages-Big Moose selects the best businesses to deliver a complete vacation package to you. We team with local and regional experts to offer guided tours, photography workshops, guided fishing trips and more. Choose one of the complete all inclusive packages from the list on the left and you will be assured a wilderness outdoor vacation that you won't soon forget. Want a weekend trip to Maine all your own, checkout the "Guides & Tours" section under Maine Adventures. Find great outdoor activities to do or take a guided excursion from one of the many knowledgeable tour guides who cater to Big Moose guests. The Big Moose Inn's location affords our guest many opportunities to enjoy the Maine outdoors. It is only a short distance from Baxter State Park and the North Maine Woods, where our guests enjoy the recreational adventures they come to the Katahdin region for. Explore the area by yourself or join a guided tour looking for wildlife or hike into remote wilderness areas with a Registered Maine Guide. The Penobscot River offers many recreational opportunities from fishing, canoeing to whitewater rafting.Our PoliciesPets: Dogs are welcome in our campground. However, we do not have any pet-friendly cabins. Pets are not permitted inside the Inn. Please follow these rules and expectations:• Pet must be on a leash at all times• Pet must not be left unattended because of the summer heat, barking, and possible damage.• Must pick up after your pet.If you would rather board your pet contact Katahdin Kritters Pet Resort - 207-746-8040Tax: All rates are subject to 9% Maine sales tax.PLEASE NO SMOKING IN CABINS OR INN ROOMS/SUITES, FINES MAY OCCUR.Cancellations: As an independently owned and operated inn, we do not overbook our accommodations - each reservation is made for a specfic date, accomdation, number of guests and we are expecting you! Cancellations and changes made with short notice impact us significally. We do sympathize, however, we must maintain our business policy due to limited season and accommodation demands.Prior to 30 days of arrival, full refund; cancellation within 30 days, no refund/forfeiture of deposit. No adjustments or refunds for early departures. Please note: There are no exceptions to our cancellation policy whether it be for reasons of sickness, family emergency or weather. Check-in: 4pm-10pmCheck-out: 10am.Cabin guests must bring their own towels, or they may call in advance to arrange for towels to be rented.
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True Serendipity Homestead

17. True Serendipity Homestead

100%
(944)
Hancock, ME · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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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Blueberry Land Tent Platforms

18. Blueberry Land Tent Platforms

96%
(158)
Pembroke, ME · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
We have four raised platforms, accessible by car, each with a canvas-covered A-frame Each platform is nested in their own private setting around the edges of our 12-acre organic blueberry barren. All four platforms are fully screened-in, with stylish canvas-covered timberframes and circular red doors. These canvas tents are relatively bug-proof and waterproof; you do not need to bring a tent! You do need to bring your own bedding. ***If you are particularly sensitive to bugs, you may want to bring your own tent (to put inside our tent) or a mosquito net. This is the Northeast during the summertime, we cannot ensure there will be no bugs. Blueberry Land is part of Smithereen Farm, but is located around the corner from our Home Farm on Youngs Cove Road, near Reversing Falls. This is an off grid, rustic site with only a port-a-potty. If you need to use any other amenities, you are welcome to use the WIFI, fill your water bottles, charge your electric vehicle and buy supplies at the Smithereen Farmstore (12 Little Falls Road, Pembroke). We sell cold drinks, beer and wine, frozen fish, meat, our own fruit popsicles, also organic veggies, honey, products from many local and Maine farms, camping supplies, ready to eat food, snacks, chocolates and even fresh baked cookies. Park at the store, and then jump into the Pennamaquan River (two dams, a rope swing) to cool off after exploring the town. Note: there is no potable water at the site, you will need to bring a vessel and fill up in town. There are beautiful walking, biking and canoeing opportunities in every direction—check out Cobscook Shores, Downeast Coastal Conservancy trails by Reversing Falls, Maine Coast Heritage trails on the Bold Coast and at Sipps Bay, Nature Conservancy trail at Hersey Point, Shackford head at Eastport, and of course much more on Campobello. Blueberry bushes are low, native, fruit-growing, covered in flowers in spring and then berries in summer, turning bright bright red in the fall when kissed by frost. Our blueberries are certified organic by MOFGA and surrounded by birch, fir, spruce and flowering perennial beds to improve insect habitat. Please DO NOT DRIVE/ tread ON THE BERRIES, they are food that we harvest and sell! Park in the parking lot, three sites are immediately visible, the fourth site is a further drive down the road, past the port-o-potty, in the back field, to the left. Low hung vehicles beware! If in doubt park in the parking lot. Upon booking, we will send you a PDF welcome packet filled with helpful information about the farm, local sites to see, and a comprehensive list of our recommendations. We will say it again: remember to prepare for MOSQUITOES in summer! We really recommend you approach Washington County as an opportunity to PICNIC! The "dining out" options are limited. Bring a pocketknife, a frying pan, a big cooler for butter and milk with ice packs so you can pick up local crabmeat (Betty's Crabmeat) and mayo and salads (Smithereen Farmstore) and eggs from ends of driveways, bring a cutting board—a big water jug, a camp stove/kettle, more warm socks than you think you need... and a sense of adventure! We have a EAT DOWNEAST digital map, guidebook and brochure at the Farmstore you can pick up a copy or download from our website. Thank you for taking the time to support supporting local farmers and food businesses of Washington County! We wish you a pleasant stay all the way DOWNEAST!
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Raven's Rest Tiny Cabin

19. Raven's Rest Tiny Cabin

97%
(201)
Alna, ME · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
FAQ: 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 9 years ago. It has a full kitchen, wood stove, and screened porch. There is a large (150 gallon) tank of water for doing dishes and camp showers but we do not suggest drinking it. There is a generous supply of lanterns (both battery and inflatable solar) flashlights and string lights for lighting. We have wired lights that run off DC power when there is enough solar and we provide some battery packs for charging phones. We highly suggest bring some way to charge any of your personal electronics. There is no reliable way to do that in the cabin. 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!
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Rustic Retreat

20. Rustic Retreat

99%
(80)
Boothbay Harbor, ME · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
🏕 Welcome to a Rustic Retreat Along the Maine Coast Tucked into the quiet woods just 5 minutes from lake access, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, and Back River—and only 10 minutes from downtown Boothbay Harbor—this land offers a peaceful place to rest, reconnect, and recharge. Whether you’re staying for one night or a few, you’ll enjoy open skies, forest walks, and cozy campfires. The land includes a mix of open field edges and forested nooks, each site offering a simple, no-frills setup for tent campers, vans, and small RVs. ✨ This space is best suited to guests who enjoy calm mornings, mellow evenings, and a peaceful, nature-forward experience. 📶 Reliable cell service is available if you need to check in—or want to stay offline and unplug entirely. ⸻ 🌿 A Note on Accessibility and Stewardship I truly believe everyone deserves a chance to rest and reconnect with nature. If cost is ever a barrier, feel free to reach out—I’m open to discussing alternatives when possible. Funds from bookings help support ongoing efforts to restore native habitat, build regenerative systems, and sustainably care for the land. Your stay helps make that possible. 🌱 ⸻ 🚐 Vehicle Note The entrance gate is about 12.3 feet wide. Please double-check your vehicle width if you’re traveling in a larger rig or trailer. ⸻ 🌱 For Return Guests or Longer Visits Occasionally, I’m able to offer extended stay options or simple volunteer exchanges for folks looking to spend more time in nature. If you’ve stayed here before, feel free to reach out—I’m happy to offer a returning guest discount when possible.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Maine camping guide

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.

Guides to camping experiences near Maine

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.

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

Top national parks and forests in Maine

Top regions in and near Maine