Tent camping near Calais, Maine offers primitive experiences in a region where the average summer temperature hovers around 75°F, with cooler 50-60°F nights. The area sits at the easternmost point of the United States, characterized by dense forests, rocky coastlines, and numerous lakes. Late spring through early fall provides the most favorable camping conditions, though seasonal restrictions apply at certain sites.
What to do
Kayaking on Gardner Lake: Tom's Retreat on Gardner Lake provides direct lake access for paddling. "Brought our own kayak to enjoy Gardner and Second Lakes!" notes camper Claudia G., highlighting the connected waterways that expand exploration options.
Beach exploration at low tide: The Huckins Beach area features "an expansive gravel beach and hard pack sand when the tide goes out," according to reviewer Nancy W., who advises, "Be mindful of the tides which are some of the highest in the country of nearly 20 feet."
Wildlife observation: Gassabias Lake campsites offer excellent birdwatching opportunities where "If you enjoy listening to Loons, they put on quite a symphony," according to Ingrid W. The wooded setting provides natural habitat for various wildlife species.
Border crossing excursions: Huckins Beach and Trail is situated "right near the border if you are looking for a stop before/after crossing," as Mike notes in his review. This strategic location allows for international day trips while maintaining a home base.
What campers like
Secluded spots: Campers appreciate the privacy at Gassabias Lake campsites, described as "3 secluded spots on a dead-end road. Wooded, path to the lake." Reviewer Ingrid W. adds, "I have never seen all 3 sites in use at one time," highlighting the low-traffic nature of this area.
Coastal views: The Fair Head campsite at Cutler Coast provides exceptional vantage points. "This site gets hit by first light and you can watch the sun rise right out of your tent just by sitting up in your sleeping bag," reports Sarah C., detailing the dramatic natural setting.
Private lakefront access: At Tom's Retreat on Gardner Lake, campers enjoy "Amazing lakefront lot, very private and comes with a big common area to BBQ," according to Claudia G., making it ideal for water-focused camping trips.
Convenience to natural areas: Huckins Beach's location provides easy access to numerous conservation lands. Nancy W. notes it's situated in "a beautiful part of Maine where you are surrounded by lots of bays and lakes and just a short trek to what is called 'the Bold Coast' of Maine."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most sites have minimal amenities. At Fair Head — Cutler Coast, Sarah C. reports, "Sites also have very rudimentary privies but these are not pit toilets, far from it. They are quite pathetic and gross consisting of a toilet seat sitting on a wooden frame, caged in by hardware wire."
Water availability varies seasonally: Water sources can be unreliable in summer months. "There isn't much fresh water around either, so we hiked in enough for dinner and breakfast the following day," explains Sarah C. about the Fair Head campsite.
Site identification challenges: Finding your designated spot can be difficult at some locations. At Cutler Coast, "these three sites are NOT well marked and you have to hike up a wooden ladder to get to at least 2 of the 3," according to Sarah C.
No reservations at most sites: The first-come, first-served system requires flexibility. Gassabias Lake operates with "No fee, first-come first served," explains Ingrid W., recommending it as "a great backup plan if the Unknown Lake sites are full."
Tips for camping with families
Space limitations: Consider tent size requirements when choosing sites. At Black Point Cove — Cutler Coast, Sarah C. found, "Our 3 person tent fit but it was quite tight and I find it difficult to imagine trying to squeeze a larger tent in the spot."
Access difficulties: Some sites require significant hiking with gear. Nancy W. explains at Huckins Beach, "You can also paddle into this campground but you will have to carry your gear about a hundred yards," making it challenging for families with young children or substantial equipment.
Toilet considerations: Plan accordingly for primitive facilities. Sarah C. notes at Black Point Cove, "There is a small wooden box with a toilet seat, surrounded by hardware wire that is boasted as a 'toilet.' These were quite full and odiferous."
Nearby services: Research available resources before arrival. Near Huckins Beach, "The closest town is Lubec which is about a fifteen-minute drive away. There is a convenient store and a restaurant/seafood market nearby (about a five minute away)," according to Nancy W.
Tips from RVers
Site restrictions: Many locations explicitly prohibit RVs. Huckins Beach and Trail "is for tent camping only with five tent sites and does not even allow RVs in the parking lot," explains Nancy W., making advance planning essential.
Rough access roads: Vehicle-accessible sites often have challenging approaches. At Gassabias Lake, Ingrid W. cautions, "Road into camp is dirt and some of it can be rough. Cars can make it just go slow."
ATV trail connections: Some areas provide motorized recreation options. Ingrid W. notes Gassabias Lake offers "Atv trail access from camp - can ride to Lincoln, Ellsworth, Grand Lake Stream, Machias and all points downeast from here."
