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Best Dispersed Camping near Lubec, ME

13 Reviews

Cutler Coast Public Land offers free primitive camping along Maine's eastern coastline, with five oceanfront walk-in campsites accessible via hiking trails. The area features a mixture of bogs, wetlands, rocky coastline, and maritime fir forests. Camping is limited to 14 days within any 45-day period. No fires are permitted anywhere within the reserve, and campers should bring sufficient drinking water as sources are limited even during rainy seasons.

The camping sites are in high demand and cannot be reserved. The three Fairy Head sites require climbing a wooden ladder to access, while Long Point offers a gravel beach near the campsites which are situated on the cliffs above. Each site includes a basic toilet facility, though these are simple wooden frames with toilet seats rather than enclosed pit toilets. A visitor noted, "there isn't much fresh water available even in the rainy season, so be prepared to carry in water." The trails to these sites can be challenging, with muddy conditions common and terrain that undulates through coastal forest.

About 45 miles northwest, Machias Rips Campsite provides an alternative free camping option with drive-in access directly off Route 9. This area offers two RV sites, three tent sites, and a lean-to shelter along the Machias River. Facilities include fire pits and a clean pit toilet. Unlike Cutler Coast, fires are permitted at this location. A camper remarked, "Great spot to fish and swim! I've caught smallmouth bass, chubs and trout in the river."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Lubec, Maine (6)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Lubec, ME

10 Photos of 6 Lubec Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Lubec, ME

13 Reviews of 6 Lubec Campgrounds

  • Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 22, 2021

    Cutler Coast Public Land — Cutler Coast Ecological Reserve

    Fairy Head Campsite- 4 Stars for the Site itself but 5 stars for the views

    Hiking along the Cutler Coast is a unique opportunity that if you get the chance to explore, you absolutely should. There are only 5 campsites total available along the Cutler Coast, 3 of them are at the Fairy Head. 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). From this direction, sites were a little challenging to find but we managed. Just be aware that 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. There isn't much fresh water around either, so we hiked in enough for dinner and breakfast the following day.

    The site we stayed in, site 1 (at least we think it's site 1) was perched on a beautiful cliff top in the trees. The area is very small and fitting anything larger than a 4 person tent might be difficult (we had a 3 person). While there was a make-shift fire ring, fires are NOT allowed in the public land reserve here. 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. You can see everything and the odor isn't masked at all. I'm not sure why this design is in use. Not to mention that folx can't be bothered to pack out their trash. 

    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. The views are incredible but these are very high impacted sites. There was a sheet of paper completely full at the trail head that serves as a register for folx to sign in, in order to avoid hiking in and not finding a site. We scrounged up a sheet of paper from our car and put it on the clipboard for folx to use. It was an old Amazon receipt but it's all we had. I was hesitant to put where we were camping exactly just for security reasons as two female hikers. But it was helpful to see that there was space for us when we arrived. 

    All in all, it was a beautiful night!

  • Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 22, 2021

    Machias Rips Campsite

    Not bad for free camping!

    Situated right off of Route 9 between Amherst and Wesley Maine, you can access the Machias River Corridor Public Lands. At this particular location, there are 2 RV sites, 3 tent sites and a lean-to shelter, all situated right on the bank of the river.

    We spent one night here in the lean-to on our way to the Cutler Coast. The lean-to was in decent shape but it's definitely been marked by its visitors and has quite the slope to it. It was large enough for us to pitch our 3 person tent in and it was pretty great to fall asleep to the sounds of the Machias River a stone's throw from our tent. 

    There was a massive fire pit at the lean-to that we didn't utilize. There was also a fair amount of trash in the site, and oddly enough a lot of chewed bubble gum. The sites are spaced out nicely and there's a fair amount of shade to be had. There is also a relatively new and quite clean pit toilet available for use. 

    All in all, it was a great stopping point that set us up well for our early morning departure to get to the Cutler Coast. I would certainly stay here again if I were in the area.

  • Shari G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 31, 2019

    Cutler Coast Public Land — Cutler Coast Ecological Reserve

    Gorgeous Coastal Backpacking along the Gulf of Maine

    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. The length of the hiking trails makes this the ideal, weekend getaway location for a two-night campout– just get there early. The sites are few in number, small and difficult to get to, but oh-so-worth-it! 

    As backcountry sites, there are no picnic tables or fire rings, but each has a clean and convenient composting toilet with a stunning view of the Gulf of Maine.  Each campsite is located close to a freshwater source and a few are within site of a small pebble beach– perfect for swimming if you don’t mind the chilly water.  But, come prepared for bugs -- mosquitoes and black flies are impressive in the late spring and summer!   And, the trails can be quite muddy and soggy.  There is a price for this much beauty in one place!

    Located 16 miles east of East Machias, the closest town with gas and a convenience store. Five miles further west along route 1 the town of Machias offers a wider selection of restaurants, farmers markets and grocery stores.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2023

    Machias Rips Campsite

    River in Maine

    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.

  • John R.
    Aug. 20, 2022

    Machias Rips Campsite

    Amazing FREE Camp Site for All Types of Campers!

    This 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.

  • Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 30, 2021

    Long Point — Cutler Coast Ecological Reserve

    Beautiful and it has its own beach!

    This spot is situated right along the Maine coast and has one heck of a view, not to mention a nice gravel beach! While the water is quite cold in Maine any time of the year, the beach is a nice spot to relax in the afternoon sun. Note: the campsites are NOT located on the beach but on the cliffs just above it. 

    While these sites (all 5 of them in the area) were originally designed for a single party (4 individuals or less) this is the one area along the Bold Coast that you could pitch more than a single tent. There are several flat and impacted sites. There is also a bit of a makeshift "wind screen" on the point that a few individuals had their tents pitched behind. I'm sure it makes a bit of difference if the wind is blowing...which on the coast is most of the time. 

    Like the other sites, there is a small wooden "toilet" that consists of: a wooden frame, toilet seat and some hardware cloth wire. These are not pit toilets and the human waste and whatever else folx decide to toss in, simply sit on top of the ground. While enclosed in the hardware cloth, you can see and smell everything that's left behind. Given the popularity of this destination, I have no doubt these get full quickly. Regardless of the poor design, please utilize these "toilets."

    The Bold Coast is a mixture of bogs and wetlands, rocky and craggy coast line and pretty amazing maritime fir forests. The terrain is moderate in difficulty as it undulates, with several amazing overlooks. We did this with our two fit dogs but be advised, this may not be appropriate for all canine friends. 

    The views from this spot won't disappoint and there are several options to hike in and out depending on the amount of time you have. There isn't much fresh water available even in the rainy season, so be prepared to carry in water.

  • goose10091203 The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 15, 2025

    Machias Rips Campsite

    Nice enough

    There are about 5 spots. Some are rough and not super flat, but it's pretty and the river is right there. You can hear the highway but it's not too bad. Only real negative for me was nowhere to really walk my dogs, nothing even close to a trail nearby. Just the highway.

  • Tina D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2018

    Cutler Coast Public Land — Cutler Coast Ecological Reserve

    Stunning landscape. Hardcore hike. Worth it

    This was on of my most favorite hikes/camping. You don't have to hike too long from the trailhead until you come to an awesome cliffside view overlooking the water. The breeze feels devine. This hike is not for the inexperienced, unless you are some hardcore hiker or something. I thought it would be cake, but it was h-a-r-d we rested a lot. But; I think we did pretty damn good even though my feet were killing me by the time we found a campsite.

    The first couple sites we went up to had people so we were getting worried as there are not that many. But; stumbled onto one just before dark, whew! Such an awesome view of the night sky oh my gosh. I could stare at it forever. We could see the milky way. I loved our little campsite. Small but cozy and all we needed. I am a light sleeper, so the only thing that bugged me is there was some kind of horn from the lighthouse in the distance that was kind of driving me up the wall before I fell asleep. Other that that... everything was absolutely awesome, stunning landscape everywhere.

Guide to Lubec

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lubec, Maine, where nature's tranquility meets stunning coastal views. This area offers unique opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Amazing Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The Cutler Coast Public Land — Cutler Coast Ecological Reserve provides breathtaking coastal vistas, especially from the Fairy Head campsite, where you can enjoy sunrises right from your tent.
  • Hikers will find the trails leading to these sites challenging yet rewarding, with rugged paths that culminate in spectacular views of the Gulf of Maine.
  • With only a few campsites available, this area ensures a more secluded experience, perfect for those seeking peace and solitude amidst nature.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Lubec, Maine

  • Be prepared for a hike-in experience at places like Long Point — Cutler Coast Ecological Reserve, where you can enjoy a gravel beach and stunning views, but remember that the campsites are located on cliffs above the beach.
  • Carry enough water, as fresh water sources can be scarce in these areas, particularly at Machias Rips Campsite, where you'll want to bring your own supply for cooking and drinking.
  • Mosquitoes can be a nuisance during the warmer months, so pack insect repellent and consider bringing netting to keep the bugs at bay while you enjoy your outdoor experience.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Machias River Campsite

  • Located off Route 9, the Machias River Campsite offers a serene setting with riverfront views, making it an ideal spot for fishing and swimming.
  • This site features a mix of tent and RV accommodations, providing options for various camping styles while maintaining a rustic, off-grid experience.
  • With well-maintained facilities, including a pit toilet, this location strikes a balance between comfort and the wild, ensuring a pleasant stay for all visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping in Lubec, Maine?

Dispersed camping opportunities near Lubec can be found at Cutler Coast Public Land, which offers five oceanfront walk-in campsites accessible via hiking trails. The popular coastal area features gravel and dirt parking lots surrounded by trees. Another option is Machias Rips Campsite, located between Amherst and Wesley Maine off Route 9. This free dispersed area provides 2 RV sites, 3 tent sites, and a lean-to shelter along the Machias River, making it accessible for various camping styles.

What is the best time of year for dispersed camping in Lubec, Maine?

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the best conditions for dispersed camping in the Lubec area. Summer provides warmer temperatures, but campsites at popular areas like Cutler Coast Public Land — Cutler Coast Ecological Reserve fill quickly—arrive early to secure a spot during peak season. Early fall brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds while maintaining beautiful conditions. Be prepared for bugs, particularly in summer months; visitors to Machias Rips note that insect repellent or netting is essential during buggy periods. Weather can change rapidly in coastal Maine, so pack accordingly regardless of season.

Are there any free camping sites near Lubec with water access?

Long Point — Cutler Coast Ecological Reserve offers free camping with spectacular water access, situated right along the Maine coast with stunning views and a nice gravel beach. The campsites are located on the cliffs above the shore, not directly on the beach. Another free option with water access is Machias River Camp off Route 9, providing riverside camping opportunities where you can enjoy the natural waterway. Both locations offer serene settings for enjoying Maine's beautiful coastal and river environments without any fees.

What permits or regulations apply to dispersed camping in Lubec?

Dispersed camping in the Lubec area follows Maine's public land regulations. At Cutler Coast Public Land, camping is limited to designated sites only, with a maximum of 5 campsites available—3 at Fairy Head and 2 at other locations along the coast. These sites are first-come, first-served with no reservation system. Fires may be restricted depending on conditions, and campers should practice Leave No Trace principles. While permits aren't typically required for camping, there may be seasonal restrictions or special regulations during high fire danger periods. Always check with Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands for the most current regulations before your trip.

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