Explore the Natural Beauty of Maine’s Top Campgrounds
Maine offers some of the most stunning and diverse camping experiences in the Northeast. From serene coastal escapes to rugged forest retreats, the Pine Tree State is full of scenic spots to pitch your tent or park an RV. Whether you're traveling solo, as a family, or with friends, Maine provides a perfect backdrop for camping year-round.
This guide will walk you through some of the top-rated campgrounds in both coastal and forest areas of Maine. It covers everything from popular camping destinations to family-friendly sites and backcountry options. Use this as your go-to resource for planning your next outdoor adventure in Maine.
Best Coastal Campgrounds in Maine for Ocean Views
The Maine coastline stretches for over 3,000 miles, offering diverse environments from sandy beaches to rocky cliffs. Coastal camping in Maine is ideal for outdoor lovers who enjoy ocean breezes, seafood, and scenic sunrises.
- Camden Hills State Park (Camden, ME)
Overlooking Penobscot Bay, this scenic campground features more than 100 campsites. Great for hiking, bird-watching, and easy access to downtown Camden. - Sagadahoc Bay Campground (Georgetown, ME)
Located near Reid State Park, this quiet site offers waterfront tent spots and kayaker-friendly access to tidal inlets. - Hermit Island Campground (Phippsburg, ME)
A private, rustic campground with private beaches and trails. Tent-only. Great for unplugging and experiencing nature up close. - Mount Desert Campground (Mount Desert, ME)
Centrally located near Acadia National Park. Popular for its peaceful waterfront sites with easy access to hiking, biking, and kayaking. - Oceanfront Camping at Reach Knolls (Brooklin, ME)
A small, family-run campground offering picturesque views of Blue Hill Bay. Known for quiet nights and radiant sunsets.
Top Forest Camping Sites in Maine’s Woodlands
If you prefer pine-scented trails and mountainous vistas, Maine's inland forests offer fantastic camping opportunities. Forest campgrounds are ideal for hiking, fishing, and spotting wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Baxter State Park (Millinocket, ME)
Home to Mount Katahdin, Maine's highest peak. A remote, primitive camping experience with more than 200 campsites and lean-tos. Strict conservation rules apply. - Grafton Notch State Park (Newry, ME)
Offers rugged scenery, waterfall hikes, and access to the Appalachian Trail. Less crowded than other mountain parks. - Moosehead Lake Area (Greenville, ME)
Various campgrounds and public lands surround Maine’s largest lake. Great for canoeing, moose spotting, and starry skies. - Allagash Wilderness Waterway (Northern ME)
For seasoned campers seeking solitude, this 92-mile stretch of rivers and lakes offers primitive campsites only accessible by canoe. - Nahmakanta Public Lands (Brownville, ME)
Perfect for backcountry adventures. Features remote tent sites, wildlife, and rugged terrain with fewer crowds.
What Are the Most Family-Friendly Campsites in Maine?
Planning a camping trip with kids? Maine offers many kid-friendly campgrounds with amenities like swimming areas, bathrooms, hiking trails, and family activities.
- Bradbury Mountain State Park (Pownal, ME)
Easy hikes, playgrounds, and picnic areas make it great for families. Close to Portland, it's ideal for weekend getaways. - Lake Pemaquid Campground (Damariscotta, ME)
Resort-style amenities including a pool, mini golf, and live music. Offers both tent and RV camping near mid-coast attractions. - Shin Pond Village (Patten, ME)
Lodging options range from tent sites to cabins. Suitable for fishing, ATV trails, and even snowmobiling in winter.
Where Can You Camp Near Acadia National Park?
Acadia is one of the premier destinations in New England. With ocean, mountains, and forests, it draws campers from across the country. Popular campgrounds near Acadia include:
- Blackwoods Campground
Operated by the National Park Service, it offers wooded sites just 5 miles from Bar Harbor. Easy access to park trails. - Seawall Campground
Also managed by the NPS. Located in a quieter part of Acadia on the southwestern coast. First-come, first-served off-season makes it appealing to locals. - Schoodic Woods Campground
On Acadia’s less-traveled Schoodic Peninsula. Offers solitude, scenic bike paths, and unforgettable ocean views.
When Is the Best Time to Camp in Maine?
The Maine camping season typically runs from late May through early October. Each season has its own charm:
- Spring (May–June): Waterfalls run strong, trails are less crowded, and wildflowers bloom. Expect black flies—bring repellent.
- Summer (July–August): Peak camping season. Warm temps, lots of sun, and more outdoor events. Campsites book fast—reserve early.
- Fall (September–October): A favorite for foliage lovers. Crisp air, fewer bugs and crowds. Ideal for hiking and photography.
What Should You Pack for a Maine Camping Trip?
Packing properly helps ensure a comfortable and safe camping experience. Conditions can vary quickly, especially near the coast or in the mountains. Essentials include:
- 4-season tent with rainfly
- Warm sleeping bag (night temps can dip even in summer)
- Insect repellent (especially spring and summer)
- Water purifier or plenty of bottled water
- Maps and compass or GPS for backcountry areas
- Weather-appropriate clothing and layers
- Portable stove or fire-safe cooking gear
- Food storage (bear canisters in remote zones)
FAQ: Your Top Maine Camping Questions Answered
Do I need a permit to camp in Maine’s state parks?
Yes, you need a reservation or permit for all designated campgrounds in Maine State Parks. Primitive sites on public lands may require registration at trailheads or ranger stations.
Are pets allowed at Maine campgrounds?
Most Maine campgrounds allow leashed pets. Always check the campground’s specific rules. National Parks require pet waste cleanup and may restrict trail access.
Can I camp year-round in Maine?
Some primitive and backcountry sites are open year-round, but most organized campgrounds close by mid-October. Winter camping requires extra gear and experience due to snow and low temps.
Is wild camping legal in Maine?
Wild or dispersed camping is allowed on many state-owned public lands. Follow “Leave No Trace” guidelines, stay at least 200 feet from water sources, and avoid private property.
Are there RV-friendly sites in Maine?
Yes, many campgrounds in Maine accommodate RVs with full hookups, dump stations, and electricity. Popular RV parks can be found along the coast and near major lakes.
Plan Your Ideal Maine Camping Getaway
Maine's landscapes offer campers a variety of experiences, from the tranquil shores of the Atlantic to the secluded trails of the North Woods. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly base camp, a remote wilderness escape, or a coastal beach getaway, Maine delivers unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Reserve your campsite early, pack smart, and embrace the natural beauty that makes Maine one of the top camping destinations in the U.S. With so many scenic camping spots waiting to be explored, your next outdoor experience in Maine could become a lifelong memory.
