Private & Secluded Camping in Maine: 10 Remote Campgrounds to Explore

There's nothing quite like pitching a tent for a night under the stars of the Pine Tree State, and today we're sharing some of our favorite sites for primitive camping in Maine. We're not talking about glamping or resorts; no, these are wholly rustic and bare-bones spots for Pine Tree State camping purists. But trust us when we say that the scenery surrounding these rustic spots makes "roughing it" well worth it! Here are some good options for backcountry camping in Maine, but keep exploring and finding your own. Then, once you do, let us know where they are in the comments below; we're always up for a camping adventure in Maine!

1. Duck Harbor Campground, Isle Au Haut

These five primitive camping spots on Isle Au Haut are about as rustic as it gets. Off the beaten path, Isle Au Haut offers calm and beauty with the only accessibility being via the mailboat. You'll need to reserve in advance and these are typically only available through the middle of October. But, we have a feeling even the most rustic among us would prefer not to be backwoods camping after that date anyway!

2. Lobster Buoy Campsites, South Thomaston

About seven miles south of Rockland, Maine, is one of the oldest and loveliest campsites in the area. While not necessarily rustic, this beachside spot on Waterman Beach features individual campsites that are no more than 150 yards from the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. The 40 sites can accommodate a mix of tents and RVs and every site comes with grassy areas, a picnic table, and a fire ring. You'll also find hot showers here, which can be nice for those chilly Maine mornings.

3. Gray's Homestead Oceanfront Campground, Boothbay Harbor

The only oceanfront campground in Boothbay Harbor is also one of the nicest in the state. People rave about the way the spaces are lined up - just as nature allows, rather than the uniform plots you might find at a typical campground. If you can't get a camping spot on the beach, don't fret! They are all in close proximity to the water - meaning you can wake up in your tent and be kayaking in the water in no more than 10 minutes!

4. Hermit Island Campground, 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. Depending on when you visit, you'll pay a fee for overnight or weekly camping, but it's nominal and worth the views you get from this backcountry camping site in Maine.

5. Backcountry Camping at Baxter State Park, Millinocket

The very definition of backcountry camping in Maine, it doesn't get much more rustic or remote than this. There are a few backcountry camping spots in Baxter. One is Chimney Pond, which requires a three-mile hike from the Roaring Brook campsite. If you're hiking Katahdin, you'll need to pass Chimney Pond on the way, so we think you might as well give it a go. There are nine lean-tos, as well as a 10-person bunkhouse. The more adventurous can plan a stay at another 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.

6. Lake Pemaquid Campground, Damariscotta

This is a wonderful inland lake camping spot. Seven Mile Lake Pemaquid features over 15 miles of water for fishing, swimming, and overall exploration. You'll be able to access Biscay Pond, Duck Puddle Pond, and Pemaquid River by boat from here as well. Plus, you'll get the added bonus of all those beautiful leaves to peep.

7. HTR Acadia Campground, Mt Desert

Head to Mount Desert Island for some of the saltiest beachfront camping in Maine. Some sites will have you feeling like you're in the wood but with the added benefit of that salty air. A stay means being treated to views of Sargent and Norumbega mountains in Acadia National Park, as well as access to everything the park has to offer - including hiking trails and leisurely strolls on the Carriage Roads. This place is surely one of the best for rustic, fall camp vibes.

8. The Allagash Wilderness Waterway, Allagash

If you want to try your hand at some real camping in Maine head here - to one of the most beautiful wilderness areas you'll find in New England. Forest rangers look after individual campsites located at the shores of each lake and pond that is part of the 92-mile-long Allagash Wilderness Waterway (AWW). A trip here means the opportunity to see bald eagles, osprey, moose, and deer. Some of the campsites have trails leading to places that will show remnants of logging operations from the early to mid-1900s.

9. Cobscook Bay State Park, Dennysville (approximately)

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 rustic 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.

10. Searsport Shores Ocean Campground, Searsport

We're pretty excited to have another opportunity to include Searsport Shores Ocean Camping in a camping article. Rustic is truly in the eyes of the beholder and to many, this place is as luxurious as it gets. But, for those of you new to camping, this is a great entry point. Not quite rustic, but it's absolutely wonderful! Known to be one of the best campgrounds in Maine, this spot on Penobscot Bay is located smack between Bar Harbor and Camden Village.With the ability to accommodate RVs along the ocean, as well as tents, you won't be far from any of the water activities that make vacations in Maine great. The oceanfront location means you can kayak right from the beach, hike the nature trails, fish from the beach, and explore tidal pools. There are tons of activities for kids and adults here as well. So plan to stay as long as you can.

Going primitive camping in Maine allows us to experience nature in a way that not many choose to do. Have you gone remote camping in Maine? Where is your favorite place to pitch a tent in the Pine Tree State? Be sure to check out our ultimate hiking packing list so you can pick up a few new toys for your next trip.

If you're more a glamper than a camper, never fear, here are 10 spectacular campsites for people who *say* they don't like camping! You might just change your tune!

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/maine/10-luxury-glampgrounds-me/