These 13 Camping Spots In Maine Are An Absolute Must See

When warm weather rolls around, most of us can't wait to spend as much time as possible outside. And no summer is complete without a camping trip. Whether you have your own camp at the shores of a lake or you prefer the traditional tent and sleeping bag set-up, no place is better for the outdoors than Maine. One of my favorite things about camping here in Vacationland is the ability to choose almost any type of environment. Love the beach? We've got that! Prefer the mountains or lakes? We've got that, too! Here are a few spots in the state where you can become one with nature, no matter what type of outdoor fun you prefer. Get out there and show the black flies who's boss! These are some of the best campgrounds in Maine.

1. Sebago Lake State Park, Casco

Sebago Lake State Park is the largest in Southern Maine and offers clean campsites and facilities. There are over 200 sites including both reservable and non-reservable areas, many with water and electric hook-ups. Reservable sites must be booked for at least four nights during the official camping season which runs from mid-May through mid-September. Visit Maine.gov to book your campsite. Sebago Lake State Park is one of the best places to camp in Maine.

2. Bradbury Mountain State Park, Pownal

Camping at the official campground in Bradbury Mountain State Parkwill 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-foot camper. You'll need to reserve these in advance. For more information check them out on the Bradbury Mountain website.

3. Natanis Point Campground, Coburn Gore

In the beautiful Chain of Ponds, close to the Canadian border is the lovely Natanis Point Campground. Numerous sites lie directly on the water for some of the best camping in Maine. 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.

4. Cobscook Bay State Park, Dennysville

Cobscook Bay State Park is one of the most unique in Maine. We've mentioned before 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, stimulating plankton growth which 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 found at the shoreline. The sites can accommodate anything from small pop-up tents to vehicles over 35 feet. You'll find Adirondack shelters as well. Visit Maine.gov for more information on Cobscook Bay State Park and camping here.

5. Backcountry Camping at Baxter State Park, Millinocket

There are two backcountry camping spots in Baxter. One is Chimney Rock, which requires a three-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.

Those who are more adventurous can plan a stay at the other backcountry site, Russell Pond. This one requires a longer hike of about seven miles from Roaring Brook. The area includes five lean-tos, three tent sites, and an eight-person bunkhouse. There is a third backcountry camping spot, Katahdin Lake, but it is privately owned.

If you don't want to do backcountry camping, not to worry as Baxter State Park has other options including cabins, tent sites, and group campsites. This state park is one of the best places to camp in Maine.

6. Aroostook State Park, Presque Isle

Maine's first state park will give you access to the North and South Peaks of Quaggy Jo Mountain. It also offers recreational activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking. There aren't tons of official campsites so you should aim to have a reservation. However, some of the campsites are reserved for same-day arrivals. Visit the Maine.gov website to learn more.

7. Lily Bay State Park, Beaver Cove

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-foot RVs. Many must be reserved in advance. This is a great place to enjoy swimming, hiking, ATV trails, boating, and fishing. You'll find some of the best camping in Maine here by Moosehead Lake.

8. Warren Island State Park, Penobscot Bay

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, head to the web page on Maine.gov.

9. Camden Hills State Park, Camden

Campsites are available at Camden Hills State Park and offer access to hot showers along with hiking trails to Mt. Megunticook and to the summit of Mt. Battie. Some of the best hiking in Maine can be found here so why not camp here as well!

10. Lake St. George State Park, Liberty

This area is one of the smaller on this list but it's still one of the best places to camp in Maine. Campsites are an easy walk from the area designated for day use and some are actually located on the shores of the lake. Lake St. George State Park has some of the best camping in Maine.

11. Mount Blue State Park, Weld

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. As one of the best places to camp in Maine, Mount Blue State Park has a lot to offer.

12. Rangeley Lake State Park, Franklin County

The 50 campsites located in Rangeley Lake State Park are within close proximity to the shore and provide access to trails, swimming, and boating. For more information about camping at Rangeley Lake State Park, visit the web page on Maine.gov.

13. Hermit Island, Phippsburg

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. There are 271 campsites located in the southern part of the island. Each site has its own fire pit, picnic table, and parking space. For more information and to reserve your spot, visit the Hermit Island website. Hermit Island offers some of the most scenic and best camping in Maine.

Have you stayed at one of the best campgrounds in Maine? Do you have any other recommendations for places to camp in Maine? Let us know in the comments! And, remember that camping at state parks will require a reservation, so make sure you book a campsite before you go. Another vital part of camp planning is ensuring you have all the right gear. Stock up at our hometown favorite, L.L. Bean.

If you love the idea of getting off-the-beaten-path, consider a few nights enjoying primitive camping in Maine.