Small, wooded, and set back from the road, Desert of Maine Campground sits about 4-5 miles from downtown Freeport along a two-mile access road that several reviewers flag as a speed trap. That road detail matters: the approach can feel rough, and large RVs should think carefully before attempting it, as the campground's maximum length is 30 feet and many sites run small. What awaits at the end of it, though, is a tightly managed property that changed ownership in 2018-2019 and has since gone through a thorough renovation.
The campground's layout is compact. Sites 19-27 face a shared common area with direct access to the bathhouse, while tent sites 2 and 3 are walk-in, offering more seclusion but a longer trek to facilities. Most sites sit under a canopy of old pine, maple, and balsam, with little privacy at the front but forest behind. As Pat put it, it's a "quiet small campground for tents and SMALL campers or RVs." Sites 4, 6, 17, 19, 23, and 26 run slightly larger than others, worth noting for anyone who needs extra room.
The bathhouse draws consistent attention across reviews. Individual shower rooms, modern finishes, and spotless upkeep are mentioned repeatedly. A 24/7 camp store with an iPad kiosk handles late arrivals, and the property borders the Desert of Maine attraction itself, where guests get half-price guided tours. Tucker B. noted "no price difference between tent-only and sites with water and electric," which is unusual and worth confirming at booking. Ice cream, firewood, and ice are available on-site.
Cell service gets mixed mentions, but WiFi covers most of the campground. Freeport Village Campground sits about 1.3 miles northeast for travelers who need more space or hookup flexibility. The campground runs from early May through mid-October, with nightly rates between $45 and $55. Reservations are available and recommended, particularly in summer when the proximity to Freeport's shops and LL Bean draws steady traffic. Pets are welcome.
Families with children and campers who prioritize clean facilities over solitude tend to get the most out of this property. If that combination fits your trip, a reservation here is worth making.
Description
A truly unique camping experience! Camp at the edge of 20 acres of rolling sand dunes at the famed Desert of Maine. Just 8 minutes from the famous LL Bean flagship store and the outlet shops of Freeport, 20 minutes to downtown Portland, and close to all that mid-coast Maine has to offer, this quiet, secluded campground changed ownership in 2019 and has been completely renovated. Featuring a luxurious bath house, spacious sites, new water/electric infrastructure, and thoughtful touches throughout, this campground is a hidden gem. There are 27 sites, each equipped with a fire ring (w/ integrated grill) and picnic table. Campground guests enjoy 25% off admission to the Desert of Maine where they can learn about the fascinating history of the Desert and the quirky characters that have made it an iconic and beloved tourist destination for nearly 100 years. Guided or self-guided tours for history and science buffs; a one-of-a-kind natural playground, an imaginative labyrinth called“Gemstone Village”, and a Fossil Dig for kids. Small cafe and unique Gift Shop.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsDesert of Maine Campground is located in Maine near Freeport
Directions
From jct I-295 (exit 20) & Desert Rd: Go 2 mi W on Desert Rd.
Coordinates
43.85850427576389 N
70.15434235634007 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 7/8/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 7/8/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- 30 Amp Hookups
Drive Time
- 30 min from Lewiston, ME
- 34 min from Portland, ME
- 1 hr 35 min from Bangor, ME
- 1 hr 37 min from Manchester, NH



















