Calais is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Discover great camping spots near Calais, reviewed by campers like you.
$20 / night
$35 - $40 / night
Five walk-in tent sites, located in the Huckins Meadow. During summer and fall, 2021 tent sites are available on a first-come, first serve basis. No reservations.
***Walk-in camping rules: -Please bring your own drinking water, there is no potable water at Huckins Beach. -Maximum stay: three nights. -No campfires permitted at any Cobscook Shores parklands. -Visitors shall respect the quiet enjoyment of nature.
Eleven primitive campsites. At South Bay on Rocky Lake, two sites can accommodate medium RVs and two are walk-in tent sites (there are additional walk in sites at Mud Landing). Water-access sites include: Loose Rock (a lean-to), Eagle Ledge (on Second Lake); Lower Riffl es (E. Machias River); West Beach, Piney Point, and Rocky Lake Island. https://www.maine.gov/DACF/parksearch/PropertyGuides/PDF_GUIDE/rockylakeguide.pdf
Eleven primitive campsites. At South Bay on Rocky Lake, two sites can accommodate medium RVs and two are walk-in tent sites (there are additional walk-in sites at Mud Landing). Water-access sites include: Loose Rock (a lean-to), Eagle Ledge (on Second Lake); Lower Riffl es (E. Machias River); West Beach, Piney Point, and Rocky Lake Island.
Boat access points (hand-carry at South Bay; trailerable at Mud Landing; trailerable at Patrick Lake)
Parking for 6 cars at South Bay, 2 cars at Mud Landing and 4 cars at Patrick Lake
More info: https://www.maine.gov/DACF/parksearch/PropertyGuides/PDF_GUIDE/rockylakeguide.pdf
Legend
General: 31 RV sites with w/e plus six tent sites with no hookups.
Site Quality: Our site was on grass and level enough that we could make it work without much difficulty. Sites 12A and 12B are the best IMO as they have an unobstructed view of the bay and more space between them than other sites. The lettered tent sites are also good, IMO, especially A, E, and F. Sites 1-29 are very close together with no physical separation between them in typical RV park fashion. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring, however, sites 1-4 share a fire ring, making it a good choice for people traveling together
Bath/Shower house: Clean. Toilet stalls are a bit tight. The shower was also a little tight. One stall had plenty of hooks, but I could not get the faucets to work; the other stall only had one hook, but I could get the faucets to work! Plenty of hot water.
Activities/Amenities: Dishwashing sink, laundry (three washers/three dryers, $1.50 each) Free WiFi, and morning coffee on the porch. Firewood and ice are available for purchase for a reasonable amount (after-hours wood is available on the honor system). You can sign up in the office for a lobster set-up which includes a pot, burner, and propane to cook lobsters, clams, or crabs at your site. There are no activities at the campground, but you are encouraged to explore the town of Lubec, especially the West Quoddy lighthouse at sunrise. In the afternoon, we enjoyed watching the tide come in and out in the bay and I could do yoga on the grassy area. There was also a shared swing where you can enjoy the tide and sunsets.
Cindy and her husband manage this campground, and we received a hearty welcome from Cindy when we checked in. After we paid (Cash or check only, no credit cards), she gave us the lowdown on what we should see and do in the small town of Lubec, especially the West Quoddy house lighthouse (which despite its name, is the easternmost point where you can see the sunrise in the US). Very quiet campground that was about half full when we were there. And yes, if the weather cooperates, the sunsets are beautiful.
Guide
Cobscook State Park is beautiful. The park is big, and many sites are very far apart - we had almost complete privacy. There are both reservable and non reservable sites. Some sites have Adirondack shelters. All sites have picnic tables and fire pits. The majority of the tent sites and small rv sites, and some larger rv sites, are on the water. We stayed at 2 different sites - a waterfront site and non waterfront - and both were scenic and private. There is no water/electric/power at any site. There are water stations around the park, as well as a bath house and dump station. The park rangers are friendly and helpful. There is a lot of wildlife and waterlife - we saw many seals and cormorants in the water, as well as a few eagles. You can launch a kayak from your campsite, or from the large dock/boat launch area in the park. Kayaking should be done with prior research to ensure familiarity with the tide changes (which are up to 20 ft) and currents, which are strong and dangerous in certain areas of Cobscook Bay. There is a great map published by Cobscook Shores that shows recommended kayak areas and tide access. It includes the launch that is in the park. https://cobscookshores.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/CS-System-Map.pdf
There are also a few open areas for picnicking or just relaxing, as well as a play area for kids. There are a few nice, relatively short and easy hiking trails that run through the park. One of the trails is right at the entrance, so you can park there if needed. For more advanced hiking, the Cutler Preserve land, Boot Head, and Quoddy Head are all nearby and offer incredible hikes of varying distances, up to 10 miles. Quoddy Head also has a lighthouse that is a popular attraction .
RangerSites are right on top of each other--better hope you like your neighbor! Otherwise, good location if you're traveling in a van/RV to the Lubec area and want a spot near town. Showers are a bit tiny, but great in that they're not coin-op nor on a timer.
Ranger
Called and got a reservation day-of as my husband and I were driving through. We had a pleasant stay on a great site with a beautiful view and managed to get showers in and laundry done, too!
Scout
Pay no attention to any reviews that are a year older as there are new owners now. The prices have tripled and there are 7 pages of rules you have to sign off on!! This campground has lost its personality! The previous owners were fantastic and extremely accommodating. New owners are invisible and everything is automated online and pricing is ridiculous! This used to be a very busy place but not anymore! I hope the new owners figure it out before it’s too late!
Ranger
Picked this location because it was close to several locations we could take day trips to the coast.
Visited Bar Harbor, Eastport and several places in between.
Because of those activities, we spent most of our time here sleeping and preparing 1-2 meals a day.
Evenings here were pretty quiet and not much traffic after dark. Bathroom was good but no water or garbage service.
Ranger
Stayed for two nights after Labor Day. Only one other camper in the park and we never saw them but occasionally we could hear a voice. Other than that, it was quiet.
There are about 9 campsites, each with a picnic table, a fire ring and a large camping and parking area for each site.
The best feature of this campground is the view. There is a Lake on both east and west sides of the camping area. Three sites are view of both lakes from the camp sites. I woke up to a view of one lake and my wife saw the other lake from our camper.
The campground has three pit toilets. The large size of the camp sites makes it feel more secluded than it is
We did hear something like a lumber mill operating one morning. Not sure what that was all about.
A Ranger stopped by and visited with us. He then offered us a brochure on the camping area we are planning to visit next. Nice customer service right at our camp site!
ScoutDespite taking place during the period of social distancing, everyone at the SF-160 campsite strictly followed the clearly posted epidemic prevention regulations. This created a safe and comfortable space for everyone. Experience Traffic Jam 3D right now!
ScoutI stayed in a small site, just me and my vehicle. I asked for a quiet spot with elec and the site was perfect. It is basic, but more like what you would find at national parks, which I prefer MUCH MORE. My spot was shaded and level enough to have a tent, vehicle, chairs and table (not provided at my site), and they have a fire ring.
It isnt the usual RV sites that are sterile and squished in like sardines, so if thats what you looking for, this isnt it.
I paid $36 for my night, on par with national/ state parks, but much cheaper than most commerical camping grounds. The area is a little overpriced, so it was nice to stay somewhere reasonable, especially at the end of the season.
THere isnt wifi, my car (ATT) got better service than my phone (Tmobile).
The road is decent, maybe a few spots to watch out for, and they ask you to keep the speed down (5mph) so they are trying to take care of it (or not let it get torn up too much)
I didnt use the shower, but the bathroom was plumbed.
ScoutNice little site, great views
LegendPros: Location overlooking Johnson Bay 50 AMP & water hookup 4 miles from eastern most point in US
Cons: Gravel site No shade No sewer hookup
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GuideThis is a huge campground. So many of the campsites here are lovely, many with views of the water and the amazing change of tides. Some are perched on a slope with tent platforms level but not much else on the site is. Pit toilets. There are showers at the main area, a bit of a walk or drive. There is a boat launch area a short distance away and the kayaking is great. This campground was so quiet and peaceful. We loved it.
Scout
Pretty quiet and right near the border if you are looking for a stop before/after crossing.
LegendA sought-after destination, this popular spot boasts gravel and dirt parking lots enveloped by trees yet strategically cleared for ample sunlight. The area serves as a hub for day hikes and offers five oceanfront walk-in campsites.
Most vehicles in the lot belong to hikers and campers. The pit toilet is well-maintained. 14 days of free camping within a 45-day window.
Scout
Great free off grid camping near Canadian border. The other previous reviewers did a great job explaining the campground. The only exception is that we had 4 bars of LTE service (AT&T) which was nice. Camp sites today are very buggy- bring your repellent and/or netting.
TravelerBeautiful place. Clean sites. Easy to find and right off rt 9. Seems to be a bathroom pit-stop for travelers on rt 9 due to having the maintained bathroom. So lots of traffic driving in, using the toilet and then driving right back out.
Legend
Jonesport Campground is a little campground on the coast of Maine with excellent ocean views. The views are quintessential Maine with lobster boats bobbing in the water and the tides moving in and out. If you like hanging out in the unpopulated rural areas of Downeast Maine, then this is the place for you. Off Route 1, drive south for ten miles and you come to the end of the peninsula where the campground is located. The campground is small with some 20 or so campsites in a loop with some sites right on the water and others behind them. About a third seasonal campers who mentioned they have been coming there for many years. Electricity is 30 amp and there is no sewer or potable water (so make sure you fill up before you come. Roads are gravel and have a few potholes. The campground is low and flat so there is a bit of standing water after it rains. Sites are gravel/grass/dirt with a picnic table and fire pit. There is a vault toilet and a port a potty. There is also a honey wagon service that comes around weekly if you need it. A dumpster is onsite for trash. Our Verizon phone and hotspot worked well. Not sure about over-the-air television because we used our portable Dish satellite because we had a clear view to the sky.
Since you are right on the ocean, it can get quite windy so be sure not to leave your awning out if you go away. Screen rooms are a good idea because the black flies and mosquitos in Maine can be quite pesky in the spring and summer. There is no website or online reservation service so you have to call the town office (207-263-8315 or 207-263-6576) to talk to the campground manager.
Jonesport has a hardware store, small grocery store, two places to get pizza and a few other shops scattered here or there. You are best to bring everything you need (you can stock up in the grocery in Columbia Falls before you head south off route one). The nearby town of Milbridge is bigger with a grocery, laundry, shops, hardware store, fuel, and restaurants. Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park are about an hour and a half away. Schoodic Woods section of Acadia NP is approximately an hour away. The best thing about this campground are the views. If you have a kayak, definitely bring it because this is a great place to paddle. This is definitely not an RV resort and not for everyone, but if you like a rustic campground in a beautiful place, check out Jonesport Campground.
LegendThis is a beautiful state park in a quiet part of the state and ideal for those looking for a quiet getaway with lots of outdoor activities. The park is surrounded by Cobscook Bay on three sides so you definitely get a feel of being near the water. As the 20+ tides come into the bay so does an abundant of aquatic life (our favorite being the seals and otters) and bird life which makes for great wildlife viewing. Cobscook has 106 campsites which vary from pull-thru to back-in, RV or tent, and all are set in a nice wooded environment. The best sites are those right on the water. Some of the sites have really long driveways while some of the pull-thrus are close to the road. The thick woods provide some shade and lots of privacy and the campground is pretty large so you don’t feel like you are on top of your neighbors. Campsites have pretty large level spots for setting up camp. We loved our site that was deep in the woods and had lots of privacy.
There is one bathhouse with showers near the ranger station. Otherwise, you have to use vault toilets which are scattered about and not super close to lots of campsites. A dump station and water fill sit are also near the park entrance. On Sundays when all the weekend campers were leaving, the line for the dump station was pretty long so bring your patience.
One drawback of this campground for us was that the trees lining the roads needed to be trimmed back and we scraped quite a few trees overhanging the road when coming and going. Something else to consider are the bugs! Ticks, mosquitos and black flies (these tiny little bugs that gnaw on you and create huge welts) are prevalent. Definitely bring insect repellent and/or a screen room. Later in the fall the bugs are not nearly as bad.
There are two short hiking trails and one has a short spur leading up to a view point overlooking the tidal river. If you are looking for longer hikes, Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge is adjacent to the park A nice paved boat launch with large parking area is located within the park. We launched are kayak and paddle board there at high tide when the water is slack and paddled across the river to a nature preserve for a hike. Make sure you watch the tides because the water can really rush in and out at certain times.
Not too far is a great little restaurant called Sue’s Coobscook Café. We stopped in for lunch but they were serving breakfast all day and we quickly switched to the delicious brunch menu. The Greek omelet was amazing and the breakfast was huge with great portion sizes and reasonable price.
ScoutI love it
Scout
Super easy—we arrived late and still found our way very easily. Nice bathrooms, cheap firewood, and picnic table + shelter at every tent site. Only heads up is that the sites aren’t very private.
LegendWe love this campground because of the location and amazing views! Sunset Point is a small, family-owned campground that sits beautifully perched on Johnson Bay just minutes from downtown Lubec. After a busy morning of hiking or paddling we loved hanging out at our campsite in the afternoon and watching the seals, bald eagles, seabirds, and the tides come and go.
This is one campground where the tent sites are actually in the best location in the campground as all of them have great unobstructed water views. (The only downside is they are farther away from the bathroom.) Some tent sites (A– D) have a wooden shade structure with picnic table and fire pit, the others just have a fire pit and picnic table. RV sites are 50-amp/ water and vary in length. Some are right on the water and others are in rows behind them. Warning: RV sites are very close together and there is not much space between you and your neighbor. The best sites are 12, 12A, 12B, and 16 which have the best views and are the largest sites. There are no sewer hook-ups but there is a dump station, a tote (a.k.a.,“blue boy”) that you are welcome to borrow, or you can schedule a pump out for$10/tank. Most motorhomes (in sites 16-29) choose to pull-in forward so they have a water view out of their front window and run the utilities under their RV to hook-up. Warning: do not leave your awning out while you are away from your camper as the winds can really pick up in the afternoon and damage them.
The restrooms were super clean (although a little dated) and there is a laundry with three sets of washers and dryers for$1.50 each. Wood ($3) and ice are for sale in the camp store where they also have t-shirts/hats/post cards and a few other miscellaneous items. Wi-Fi at our site (#16) was pretty poor but worked very well near the office/laundry. We had a strong Verizon signal so we didn’t rely on their Wi-Fi. The grounds are manicured with nicely mowed grass. The only problem was that some people put out patio mats or screen rooms that killed the grass so the next camper has a big dead spot. There is a primitive kayak/canoe launch (which is basically a mowed path down to the water) which we used almost daily. It was so convenient to leave our boats down along path so we didn’t have to bring them back to our site every day. Beware that the tidal range is around 20 feet so make sure you paddle around high tide or you will have to cross a mucky, seaweed covered, rocky clam flat to get back to shore. There are lots of great places to paddle and downtown is about a 15-minute paddle and there are plenty of seals at high tide and the mackerel fishing is great. The campground has free use of lobster pots, burners, and propane tanks if you want to cook your own lobster and there is a seafood place right down the street that sells live lobster. Or you can drive about 25 miles to the town of Cutler and buy them fresh off the dock.
Lubec is a cute little town with a few shops, restaurants, historical museum, a brewery, grocery, and a scenic view of the Passamaquoddy Bay. There is plenty of hiking on nearby nature preserves. Bring your passport and cross over to Campobello Island which was the summer home of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt and is now a museum open for tours. There is also lots of hiking and two lighthouses on Campobello. Nearby is Quoddy Head State Park which has some beautiful oceanfront hiking trails and a picturesque lighthouse.
GuideThis campground is one of my favorites in Maine! Sitting only an hour from Ellsworth and Bangor ME this is a nature lovers dream!
The dirt road leading to the camp can be easily missed if not paying attention! But is clearly marked with a blue sign at the head of the road. Your GPS might not give you an “exact” location but i promise I found the place with no problem!
The road has a few pot holes but nothing my stock (Low to the ground) Dodge Caravan couldn’t handle, There is about 4 Sites with river front views and trails leading to the water from each camp. There are also bigger sites for campers and RV’s. There is a site with a wooden protection shelter for tent campers as well!
New style out houses are on site but other than that it’s completely off grid!
Most Cell phone carriers won’t have service back at the camp, I myself had to drive 20 Minutes up the road for signal, A cell signal booster may work here. Radio signal is fine tho.
Great spot to fish and swim! I’ve caught smallmouth bass, chubs and trout in the river so far! (Black and silver Jerk baits work great) The mosquitoes can get bad in the area but fire pits and fires are permitted in the camp and they helped keep me comfortable from bugs!
There is also a marked trail in the camp that leads deep into the woods, I followed it for about a mile before it got too thick for my interest. Could be the trail that connects to the large pools of water up the river with ADDITIONAL camping there as well.
Traveler
I have gone camping here a handful of times and it is so beautiful! Definitely far out there and can be difficult to find if you don’t know the area well. Little to no service as well. We canoe to the island and camp on that but there are spots you can get to without a boat we just prefer it there. Make sure to bring everything you need! There are fire rings but the ranges can be sticklers about having a fire permit. This has only happened once that we’ve been there though they usually just leave you alone. These are also free spots that are first come first serve. The bugs can be really bad here especially in the earlier summer months so definitely keep that in mind and bring bug nets. We have caught a ton of fish here as well. Super beautiful lake and remote spot perfect to get away and unplug for a bit.
Traveler
There were a lot of vehicles in and out to the trailheads, but after dark it was very quiet. We got up at 5am to have the trails to ourselves. It was a peaceful night.
TravelerPlease keep an eye out and call 911 if seen.
TravelerLoved every minute of our stay. Almost every site has a water view. Bathrooms are clean. Showers are free. Loads of hiking and dramatic coastline to be explored.
Camping near Calais, Maine, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Calais, Maine, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Calais, ME?
According to TheDyrt.com, Calais, ME offers a wide range of camping options, with 37 campgrounds and RV parks near Calais, ME and 5 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Calais, ME?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Calais, ME is Cobscook Bay State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 30 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Calais, ME?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Calais, ME.
What parks are near Calais, ME?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 1 parks near Calais, ME that allow camping, notably Acadia National Park and Hopkinton-Everett Lake.
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