Cabin accommodations near Houlton, Maine range from rustic bunkhouses to riverfront cottages with electric service. The area sits at the northeastern border of the state, with elevations around 400-500 feet and summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F during peak camping months. Winter cabin rentals remain available at select locations like Matagamon Wilderness, which offers heated options during sub-zero temperatures.
What to do
Kayaking on nearby waters: Visitors can access multiple paddling locations within 30 minutes of many cabin sites. At Matagamon Wilderness, cabins sit right on the river with direct water access. "My wife and I winter camped here in a lean to in sub zero temperatures two years in a row, and while the owners thought we were nuts for not opting for a cabin they couldn't have been nicer or more accommodating," notes Jeremie P.
Hiking to scenic overlooks: Several moderate trails within 20 miles of cabin sites offer views of the surrounding landscape. "We liked Haystack Mountain which is just a short 10-15 minute walk to the top of the mountain with great views. The countryside is pretty to drive around and we found a huge field of blooming sunflowers that were stunning," reports a camper who stayed at Arndt's Aroostook River Lodge.
UTV rentals and trail access: ATV enthusiasts can access trail systems directly from some cabin sites. "Shin Pond rents Polaris UTV and snowmobiles, canoes, and kayaks in the summer and snowmobiles in the winter. We went on a UTV ride one day and were treated to some beautiful views," states Nancy W.
What campers like
Riverside cabin settings: Multiple properties feature cabins with direct water views or access. At Pine Grove Campground & Cottages, "Beautiful riverfront campsite (Site 21). The staff was very friendly and helpful. There is not access to the river from this site, there is a 10 foot drop, so toddler and dog parents beware," advises Katie B.
Heated pools for summer stays: Some cabin sites include pool access for cooling off after hiking. A visitor to Katahdin Shadows Campground mentioned, "Heated pool, campfires, tractor rides. Lots of permanent sites, but friendly, outgoing people!"
On-site food options: Several cabin properties feature dining establishments. "There was a really good store and a great diner attached to the main office building. Campfire wood was abundant (and for sale by the campground) and each site had a picnic table, fire ring, and fire place to cook on," reports Gary G. about his stay at Shin Pond Village.
What you should know
Rustic accommodations vary widely: Cabin amenities differ significantly between properties. At Arndt's Aroostook River Lodge & Campground, "Site 12 is a small bunkhouse," notes one camper, while others describe more elaborate setups.
Internet access limitations: Cell service and Wi-Fi can be spotty across the region. "No cell or internet reception with our Verizon phone. The campground does have wifi but the signal was not strong enough to get reception reliably at our site. You pretty much have to be at the office in order to get it," explains a visitor to Shin Pond Village.
Seasonal operation considerations: Most cabins near Houlton operate primarily in warmer months. "The campground is close to Baxter State Park which is the major reason why we stayed there. We loved exploring these parks where you have access to beautiful hiking trails and lakes and ponds and is not as crowded as the southern areas," reports a camper, noting pet restrictions at certain parks.
Tips for camping with families
Arcade and game rooms: Some locations offer indoor entertainment options for rainy days. "LOVED this place. SUPER friendly staff. Arcade and well stocked store. Heated pool, campfires, tractor rides," reports Ashley I. about her family's stay at Katahdin Shadows.
Hayrides and scheduled activities: Several cabin sites run regular family-friendly events during summer months. "We went on a holiday weekend with lots of events planned. Family hayride was fun. Kids enjoyed riding bikes and using the game room," notes Denise W.
Central cabin locations: Choose cabins near amenities for easier access with children. "Quick easy walk on a path to store and small restaurant," mentions a parent staying at Shin Pond Village Campground, adding "There is a separate area for tents that is really pretty and sits along a brook that divides north and south Shin Ponds."
Tips from RVers
Site access concerns: Some cabin areas share access roads with RV sites that can be challenging. "Sites are grass with very little gravel and, as we found out, they can be very soft. We pulled into our site (#21) and before we knew it our 45' (47,000 lbs) RV was stuck," warns Nancy W. about spring conditions after rainfall.
Utilities and hookup locations: RVers staying in cabins should check utility setups before booking. "Some of the sewer connections are not conveniently located so you may need extra sewer hose. Luckily, our pull thru site was long enough that we could maneuver around to get close to the sewer without needing an extension," advises a camper at Pine Grove Campground & Cottages.
Dump station considerations: For RVers mixing cabin and RV stays, check dump station locations. "The dump station is at the back of a busy parking lot that serves the restaurant, laundry, bath/shower house, and the fuel pump so it can be quite busy and congested," notes one visitor about facilities at certain campgrounds near Houlton.
