Best Dispersed Camping near Franklin, ME

The coastal region surrounding Franklin, Maine features a mix of mainland and island camping opportunities within an hour's drive. Machias Rips Campsite, located near Wesley along Route 9, provides free dispersed camping with riverfront access, including tent sites, RV spaces, and a lean-to shelter. For those seeking more remote experiences, the Deer Isle Archipelago offers several boat-in camping islands managed by the Maine Island Trail Association (MITA), including Marshall Island, Wheat Island, Buckle Island, and Doliver Island. These island sites provide primitive camping with varying levels of accessibility and amenities, creating a distinctive coastal Maine camping experience for paddlers and boaters.

Weather conditions and seasonal considerations significantly impact camping in this region. Mosquitoes are frequently mentioned in camper reviews, particularly during summer months and at dusk. As one camper noted, "Camp sites are very buggy, bring your repellent and/or netting." Cell service varies considerably, with some areas like Machias Rips reporting good coverage for certain carriers while others require driving 20 minutes for a signal. Island campsites require careful planning around tides, as noted by a Wheat Island visitor: "This can be a tricky island to land on at high tide, so plan accordingly." Most dispersed sites lack drinking water, requiring campers to bring their own supplies.

Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews throughout the region. The Machias River sites offer fishing opportunities for smallmouth bass, chubs, and trout, with convenient river access from most campsites. Island campers frequently highlight exceptional stargazing and sunset views, with one Marshall Island visitor describing "some of the best stargazing spots we've ever seen." Site cleanliness varies, with some visitors noting occasional trash issues at more accessible locations. The Machias Rips area experiences regular traffic from Route 9 travelers using the maintained pit toilets. Most island sites are first-come, first-served and free for MITA members, while mainland sites like Machias Rips offer no-cost camping with basic amenities such as fire rings, picnic tables, and pit toilets.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Franklin, Maine (6)

    1. Machias Rips Campsite

    4 Reviews
    Beddington, ME
    29 miles
    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."

    2. Marshall Island

    1 Review
    Swans Island, ME
    36 miles
    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"

    3. Buckle Island

    1 Review
    Stonington, ME
    36 miles
    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"

    4. Wheat Island

    1 Review
    Isle au Haut, ME
    39 miles
    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"

    6. Doliver Island

    1 Review
    Isle au Haut, ME
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 761-8225
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Showing results 1-6 of 6 campgrounds

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Franklin, ME

8 Photos of 6 Franklin Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Franklin, ME

8 Reviews of 6 Franklin Campgrounds



Guide to Franklin

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Franklin, Maine, where nature lovers can immerse themselves in serene landscapes and enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of options for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Scenic River Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The Machias Rips Campsite provides stunning riverfront views, making it a perfect spot for fishing and swimming. Campers have reported catching smallmouth bass and trout right from the riverbank.
  • With easy access from Route 9, this site is a convenient stop for travelers looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Maine while still being close to the road.
  • Campers can enjoy the freedom of a fire pit, which helps keep pesky bugs at bay during the evenings, enhancing the overall camping experience.

Activities to Enjoy While Free Camping Near Franklin

  • At the Machias Rips Campsite, visitors can explore marked trails that lead deep into the woods, offering a chance to connect with nature and discover the local flora and fauna.
  • The area is known for its excellent swimming spots, with many campers enjoying refreshing dips in the river during warm weather.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of fish available in the Machias River, making it an ideal location for both novice and experienced anglers.

Unique Features for Dispersed Campers

  • The Marshall Island offers a magical camping experience with two secluded sites, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy peaceful surroundings.
  • Campers should come prepared with fresh water, as there are no facilities for filtering, ensuring a true off-grid experience.
  • This island is a fantastic spot for stargazing, with clear skies providing breathtaking views of the night sky, making it a memorable destination for night owls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Franklin, ME?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Franklin, ME is Machias Rips Campsite with a 4.5-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Franklin, ME?

TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Franklin, ME, with real photos and reviews from campers.