Best Dispersed Camping in Maine

Dispersed camping in Maine offers several free primitive sites across public lands. The Cutler Coast Public Land features five oceanfront walk-in campsites with stunning coastal views, though sites fill quickly during peak season. Machias Rips Campsite provides riverside camping with a lean-to shelter and several tent sites. White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road contains approximately eight well-spaced sites along a dead-end dirt road, offering privacy and natural surroundings.

Most dispersed sites in Maine operate on a first-come, first-served basis with a 14-day stay limit. According to reviews, the Upper Gravel Pit site in Little Moose Public Lands features "a wide-open area with two fire pits" and provides "easy access to great hiking." The road to this site is "gravel and bumpy but you don't need a 4-wheel drive or high clearance vehicle," though the final approach is "quite steep with somewhat loose rocks." Visitors should note that most sites lack potable water, restrooms, and garbage facilities.

Fire regulations vary by location. Fires are prohibited at Cutler Coast but permitted at most other sites. Several campers noted that Machias Rips Campsite has "a massive fire pit" and "relatively new and quite clean pit toilet." Cell service is limited or non-existent at most locations. The Lazy Tom Bog Primitive Campsite is known as "a moose hot spot" where wildlife photographers often gather at dawn and dusk. Trout Brook Campground offers lake access but campers report "sites have no separation between them" with "zero privacy." Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly at coastal sites where wind is common. Always practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and waste.

Best Dispersed Sites in Maine (23)

    1. Cutler Coast Public Land — Cutler Coast Ecological Reserve

    7 Reviews
    Whiting, ME
    Website

    "We approached the area via the Inland Trail, about a 5.5 mile hike from the trial head (trail signs are inaccurate, they don't account for the recent re-route)."

    "The coast of Maine offers very few places for overnight backpacking or even just seaside hiking. The Cutler Coast Public Reserved Land is one great option."

    2. Machias Rips Campsite

    4 Reviews
    Beddington, ME
    Website

    "Situated right off of Route 9 between Amherst and Wesley Maine, you can access the Machias River Corridor Public Lands."

    "Great free off grid camping near Canadian border. The other previous reviewers did a great job explaining the campground."

    3. White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road

    3 Reviews
    Gilead, ME

    "We pulled in around 7:30 pm on a Sunday night and there were plenty of open spots. We took a huge one. Found a fairly flat area and stayed for the night."

    "These campsites are located on a dead end dirt road.  The campsites are spread out so you are not on top of each other (I think there are only 8 sites on the road.) "

    4. Lazy Tom Bog Primitive Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Frenchtown, ME

    "A short distance down the dirt roads north of town and known for moose. A few cars in and out checking for moose, but a peaceful night's sleep."

    "You will find this site just past the bridge off Spencer Bay Road (old logging road) on the right (when coming from the main roads).

    Bring boats if you want to see moose. We had kayaks."

    5. Trout Brook Campground

    3 Reviews
    Stratton, ME

    "Posted up to 14 days max. Even an out-house."

    6. Mosquito Rips

    1 Review
    Jackman, ME
    Website

    "The site is small and impacted but has a nice picnic table, fire pit and outhouse."

    7. Marshall Island

    1 Review
    Swans Island, ME
    Website
    +1 (207) 761-8225

    "One of the MITA (Maine Island Trail Association) camping areas in the Deer Isle Archipelago, this island has 2 sites– one on the southeast side near Sand Cove and the other on the northeast side of the"

    8. Wheat Island

    1 Review
    Isle au Haut, ME
    Website
    +1 (207) 761-8225

    "One of the MITA (Maine Island Trail Association) camping areas in the Deer Isle Archipelago, this island has 2 sites– one very small one on the northeast side, the other perfect for larger groups on the"

    9. Buckle Island

    1 Review
    Stonington, ME
    Website
    +1 (207) 761-8225

    "One of the MITA (Maine Island Trail Association) camping areas in the Deer Isle Archipelago, this island has 2 sites – one larger area up in the woods, the other quite small near the granite shore, but"

    10. Long Point — Cutler Coast Ecological Reserve

    1 Review
    Whiting, ME
    Website

    "This spot is situated right along the Maine coast and has one heck of a view, not to mention a nice gravel beach!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 23 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews in Maine

35 Reviews of 23 Maine Campgrounds



Guide to Maine

Maine offers a stunning backdrop for dispersed camping, where nature lovers can immerse themselves in the state's breathtaking landscapes while enjoying the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Dispersed campers should check out Cutler Coast Public Land

  • Experience the rugged beauty of the coastline at Cutler Coast Public Land — Cutler Coast Ecological Reserve, where you can hike in and enjoy spectacular ocean views from your campsite.
  • For a unique adventure, hike to Fairy Head within the same area, where the views are nothing short of amazing, especially at sunrise.
  • The area is known for its peaceful nights, making it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Top activities while free camping in Maine

Tips for free and dispersed camping in Maine

  • Be prepared for primitive conditions at Trout Brook Campground, where you’ll need to bring your own water and supplies.
  • At Upper Gravel Pit - Dispersed, enjoy stunning mountain views while ensuring you pack out all your trash, as there are no facilities available.
  • For a unique experience, consider Doliver Island, where you can camp on a small island and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding waters, but remember to bring your own fresh water.