Posted in Maine
May 12, 2016
These 13 Camping Spots In Maine Are An Absolute Must See
I have a feeling we’re going straight from winter into summer this year! And, no summer is complete without a camping trip. Whether you have your own camp at the shores of a lake or if you prefer the traditional tent and sleeping bag set-up, no place is better for the outdoors than Maine. Here are a few spots in the state where you can become one with nature. Get out there and show the black flies who’s boss!
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Sebago Lake State Park is the largest in Southern Maine and offers clean campsites and facilities. The over 200 sites include both reservable and non-reservable areas, many with water and electric hook-ups. Reservable sites must be booked for at least 4 nights during the official camping season, which runs from mid-May through mid-September. Click here for a map of the various sites.
Camping at the official campground in Bradbury Mountain State Park will give you access to the extensive network of trails, as well as a variety of amenities from showers to drinking water. The 35 available sites can accommodate set-ups as small as a simple pop-up tent to a more robust 35' camper. You'll need to reserve these in advance. For more information check them out online here.
In the beautiful Chain of Ponds, close to the Canadian border is lovely Natanis Point Campground. Lots of sites lie directly on the water. But, it's not just the lake that makes this place great. In addition to the warm hospitality, owners Bob and Tasha offer ATVs for use in and around the area. They'll also help arrange a local hunting guide. When I stayed, my dog actually jumped out the car window as we left because he was so bummed about leaving. I think that says more than I can possibly say here! Check them out on Facebook here. Click here for their website.
Cobscook Bay State Park is one of the most unique in Maine. We recently mentioned that it has one of the most dramatic tidal ranges in all of the state - averaging about 24 feet. But it's also an incredible place to camp if you love exploring. The narrow opening to the sea, along with its craggy shoreline and few rivers and streams to feed make it unique. The nutrient rich Gulf of Maine water comes in, which stimulates plankton growth. This leads to all sorts of wildlife in the form of land and sea creatures.
There are numerous areas designated for camping, offering over 100 actual spots. Many of these are at the shoreline. The sites can accommodate anything from small pop-up tents to vehicles over 35'. You'll find Adirondack shelters as well. Click here for information and history. Click here for a detailed map of the camping area.
There are numerous areas designated for camping, offering over 100 actual spots. Many of these are at the shoreline. The sites can accommodate anything from small pop-up tents to vehicles over 35'. You'll find Adirondack shelters as well. Click here for information and history. Click here for a detailed map of the camping area.
There are two backcountry camping spots in Baxter. One is Chimney Rock, which requires a 3-mile hike from the Roaring Brook campsite. If you're hiking Katahdin, you'll need to pass Chimney Rock on the way, so we think you might as well give it a go. There are nine lean-tos, as well as a ten-person bunkhouse. Click here for more information.
The more adventurous can plan a stay at the other backcountry site, Russell Pond. This one requires a longer hike of about 7 miles from Roaring Brook. The area includes five lean-tos, three tent sites and an eight-person bunkhouse. Click here to learn more about Russell Pond.
The more adventurous can plan a stay at the other backcountry site, Russell Pond. This one requires a longer hike of about 7 miles from Roaring Brook. The area includes five lean-tos, three tent sites and an eight-person bunkhouse. Click here to learn more about Russell Pond.
Maine's first state park will give you access to the North and South Peak of Quaggy Jo Mountain. It also offers recreational activities such as fishing, boating, swimming and hiking. There aren't tons of official spots, so you should aim to have a reservation. Though, some of the campsites are reserved for same-day arrivals. Learn more about the park here. Check out a map of the camping area here.
The Moosehead Lake Region just might be one of the most beautiful in Maine. And Lily Bay State Park offers great access to recreational activities on the lake. Campsites can accommodate everything from walk-in tents to 35' RVs. Many must be reserved in advance. This is a great place to enjoy swimming, hiking, ATV trails, boating and fishing. For more information click here. Check out a map here.
The 12 sites at Warren Island State Park are equipped for tent camping only. This might have something to do with the fact that the area can only be accessed by private boat. But, it's worth it for the remote feeling and overall beauty offered in Penobscot Bay. To learn more about the island click here.
Campsite available at Camden Hills State Park offer access to hot showers, along with hiking trails to Mt. Megunticook and to the summit of Mt. Battie. Click here for more information about the park.
This area is one of the smaller on this list, but lovely nonetheless. Campsites are an easy walk to the area designated for day-use and some are actually located on the shores of the lake. For more information on the area click here.
Mount Blue State Park is one of our favorites. First, it's the largest in all of Maine and offers everything from hiking trails to swimming. Overnighters will enjoy the amphitheater which is used to show movies during the summer. For more information about the area click here. To learn more about camping click here.
The 50 campsites located with Rangeley Lake State Park are within close proximity to the shore and provide access to trails, swimming and boating. For more information on Rangeley click here.
If you're looking for the perfect coastal camping spot, Hermit Island Campground might be it. While not an island exactly (it's actually connected to Phippsburg via a small road,) it does feel like you're a bit off the beaten path. If you want to experience it in the summer, you'll probably need to aim for next year as it books up quite quickly. During the season, ocean-view spaces cost about $60 for the weekend, but you can grab yourself a "value" space for about $40. The good news is that any space during the off-season is only $37. Click here for up-to-date information for 2016.
Remember that camping at State Parks will require a reservation, which you can learn more about (and do!) here.
What are your favorite camping spots? If you’re willing to share your secrets, let us know over on our Facebook page!
