Best Tent Camping in Maine

Thinking of camping in Maine, and you’re likely thinking of two regions: DownEast, where Acadia National Park and Portland steal the show, or along the southern coast, where Wells and Old Orchard Beach are popular. While these places are certainly well worth a visit, limiting your experiences to these coastal haunts, means missing out on some of the best camping in Maine...and there’s a lot. Indeed, Maine covers nearly one-half of the total area of New England. With over 30 state parks, the first national park east of the Mississippi, and, depending on the way you hike it, either the beginning or the end of the 2181 miles of the Appalachian Trail, Maine has a little something to offer even the greenest camper among us.

Southern Maine is a typically more crowded area. The water is a bit warmer than Maine’s northern beaches, and the beaches typically less rocky. For those looking for a break from the surf, there are shopping outlets, mini golf courses, and numerous spots to grab some fresh lobster. Old Orchard Beach has long been a New England summer tradition; trading quiet camping for go-kart races and thrilling rides, this area is chock full of summer fun. Looking to escape the crowds while camping in southern Maine? Head inland to kayak and camp along the Saco River, as it carves its way from New Hampshire’s White Mountains through to the Atlantic.

Most campers head to the ocean come summer, so you’ll find solitude amongst the trees, lakes and rivers of inland Maine. Moosehead Lake has some of the best camping in Maine, with numerous lakeside camp spots and deserted beaches off of one of the lake’s dozens of tiny islands. Bring your own canoe, or rent one, and spend the day leisurely paddling alongside loons and other waterfowl; if you’re quiet, you might even happen upon a moose. There are a number of campgrounds to choose from, and many offer secluded lakefront sites. If you are looking to stretch your legs and gain some altitude, head to nearby Baxter State Park. Hiking Maine’s highest peak, Mount Katahdin, is an intense hike that’ll reward you with unparalleled views over Maine’s seemingly endless backcountry. Fair warning: this hike isn’t for children (in fact, no children under six are allowed above the treeline anywhere in Baxter State Park). Nor is it for the faint of heart: its ridgeline is sheer, dropping off some 5,000 feet into Maine’s ancient wilderness below.

Downeast Maine is a remote area that has some of the most beautiful coastline in the world, and some of the most beautiful camping in Maine. Iconic lighthouses, piles of fresh lobster, and seaside hikes that rival inland Maine’s rugged peaks, exploring this area is a must. With Portland, Bangor, and small coastal towns like Bar Harbor, Kennebunkport and Freeport, there are no shortages of places to explore. Our favorite downeast adventure? Camp in Acadia, where you can hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain and watch as the sun sets over the rugged atlantic coastline. For those early risers, catching the sunrise from October to March means you’re catching the first of the sun as it rises over the US.

Whether you’re looking for backcountry seclusion or prefer the comforts of car camping, camping in Maine has a little something to offer all of us. True to its slogan, it really is the way life should be.

Best Tent Sites in Maine (92)

    1. Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach

    22 Reviews
    Saco, ME
    Website
    +1 (207) 282-0502

    "The campground sits among tall pine trees which offer nice shade helps alleviate some of the feel of a crowded campground. "

    "We tent camped at Saco/Old Orchard Beach KOA. The staff was very friendly and when I called to book the site, they assisted in helping us pick out the nicest campsite."

    2. Katahdin Stream Campground — Baxter State Park

    12 Reviews
    Millinocket, ME
    Website
    +1 (207) 723-5140

    "It offers a few spots for small RV’s, tent sites, lean-tos, and a few camping cabins, each with a picnic table and fire ring. Our site even had a sheltered area over the picnic table."

    "The primitive sites are either AT style leantos or tent sites. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. There is NO potable water, electricity, showers or cell/internet service in the Park."

    3. Abol Campground — Baxter State Park

    9 Reviews
    Millinocket, ME
    Website
    +1 (207) 723-5140

    $32 / night

    "Though not open during the off season, this Baxter State Park campground offers tent sites and lean-tos, each with a picnic table and fire ring. There are no sites for RV's here."

    "There is NO electricity, no showers, no grocery store,  inside Baxter State Park. Those are available at the similarly named Abol Campground and General Store which neighbors Baxter State Park."

    4. South Branch Pond Campground — Baxter State Park

    8 Reviews
    Stacyville, ME
    Website
    +1 (207) 723-5140

    "Lots of trail options. Canoe and kayak rentals ($1/hour). Swimming, fishing and gorgeous views.

    This is wilderness primitive camping. No potable water, electricity or cell service."

    "Small campground with tent sites, a couple of cabins, and several lean-tos."

    5. Roaring Brook Campground — Baxter State Park

    7 Reviews
    Stacyville, ME
    Website
    +1 (207) 723-5140

    $8 - $32 / night

    "There are drive up tent sites and lean to sites as well as walk in sites (fairly short walk and easy to locate). Great place to start for an adventure to summit katadhin and tackle knifes edge."

    "Only downside are some of the rangers who make all attempts to scare people away from doing any of the more strenuous hikes to the top. Some of the most annoying rangers I've ever encountered."

    6. White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road

    6 Reviews
    Gilead, ME

    "The only thing I regret not bringing with me is a table to put my camp stove on."

    "These campsites are located on a dead end dirt road.  The campsites are spread out so you are not on top of each other (I think there are only 8 sites on the road.) "

    7. Nesowadnehunk Field Campground — Baxter State Park

    4 Reviews
    Frenchtown, ME
    Website
    +1 (207) 723-5140

    $12 - $32 / night

    "If you want to get off the grid (no wi-fi, cell service, or running water) to a quiet, dark campground with opportunities to bag some peaks, see some wildlife, and cool off in a river after a long day"

    "Our site required a walk in. Plenty of firewood for purchase at ranger station. Within striking distance of hunt trail and the higly talked about slides/falls."

    8. Stephen Phillips Memorial Preserve Wilderness

    4 Reviews
    Oquossoc, ME
    Website
    +1 (207) 864-2003

    "It's a rare treat to be in a location where sight and sound of others are absent. While a few sites might have a neighbor in view, most offer exceptional privacy."

    "Can rent canoes to take out to the sites on islands and across the lake. There are water refills at the office available

    Farrington island is my favorite spot. There are 2 sites."

    9. Cupsuptic Lake Park & Campground

    4 Reviews
    Oquossoc, ME
    Website
    +1 (207) 864-5249

    "Very nice being several miles out on logging roads away from any towns or noise.

    Incredibly buggy. Site was advertise as next to the river, but had to walk through heavy vegetation to even see it."

    "It's a nice place on the lake. Nice beach with little seating coves along the waters edge, offers a little privacy. There is a tiny marina, docks for small boats. There are a lot of seasonal campers."

    10. Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss

    3 Reviews
    Brooksville, ME
    +1 (207) 469-8523

    $49 - $69 / night

    "There are 4 total campsites, and each  offers a slightly different view and sense of privacy.  The owner met us when we arrived.  Dogs are allowed.  "

    "This location offers level sites, views of rolling blueberry fields, a picnic table, and other goodies from your host. Lakeisha really takes pride in this property, and it shows."

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Tent Camping Reviews in Maine

1734 Reviews of 92 Maine Campgrounds


  • Melissa N.
    Jul. 17, 2018

    Seawall Campground — Acadia National Park

    Laid Back National Park Camping

    if the tide is right, Seawall has amazing sights! I’ve taken some amazing photos here. the Campgound is directly across from the public boat landing/picnic area. it’s a really nice area. the campground itself is very laid back for a National Park. the rangers almost act as though camping is your business and they only get involved if needed. whereas at blackwoods the rangers seem to try to be as accommodating as possible. it’s cute that they compete, and definitely are different. the sites are not usually as clean as blackwoods, they leave the “leave no trace” responsibility to the campers and if the person before you didn’t clean up, you might have to. other than that it’s QUIET! you can see the stars because there are no city lights. you don’t hear cars, AND the tent sites are very private. there are fresh water spouts everywhere, and plenty of trash/recycling areas. no electrIcity on the sItes, and rv can onlybIse geberators dIrIng lImItes hours. the bathrooms flush and have running water, but there are no showers. Echo Lake is right down the road, a great place to swim in fresh water.

  • Jean C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2021

    Lunksoos Campground — Katahdin Woods And Waters National Monument

    Brand new tent campground near the river

    Katahdin Woods and Waters is a young National Monument without much infrastructure. Recent construction and cooperation with corporate & charitable sponsors has led to development of the Lunksoos campground in July 2021. I approached via the turnoff from Swift Brook Rd to Sebois Rd, before you reach the loop road, but Sherman Lumber Co Rd is another option. You may encounter logging trucks. The road is not in great shape, but passable.

    A short walk from the East Branch of the Penobscot River boat launch, there are several free, walk-in sites. Two group sites allow nearby parking and provide tent platforms. The other 5 are on a small, walk-in loop through the woods; one is an accessible site. Vault toilets are provided. Sites come with bear boxes, picnic tables, and fire rings; fire permits are required (call Maine Forest Service 207-435-7693). Bring potable water or plan to treat it. Camping is free and there are no reservations. Midweek August I saw only 1 site occupied, but it's also a new campground. No cell service. Mosquitos and the occasional deer fly were annoying

    You can enjoy fishing (license required), boating, hiking, stargazing, and wild-life watching(I saw fresh bear scat on the road on the way in; moose also frequent the area and maybe you’ll even spy a lynx!). There are Junior-Ranger programs, including a Night Explorer one. Drive the loop road to some short hiking trails and look for moose. The information station at Sandbank Stream campsite just before the loop road often has some brochures, including a bird list and interpretive guide to the loop road, though I would consider downloading them from the Friends of Katahdin Woods and Waters website.

    If you’ve forgotten anything, stop in Millinocket or Medway to pick them up before you get into the Monument; it’s a long drive out and back over these logging roads!

  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2018

    Duck Harbor Campground — Acadia National Park

    Hard to get to, difficult to get a reservation, but so worth the time!

    Camping on in the Duck Harbor Campground is nearly the stuff of legends. This remote island off the coast of Maine only has 5 campsites in this part of Acadia National Park, and reservations are required. The Park’s website describes this in classic Park Service understatement, “Duck Harbor Campground is very popular. Please plan your trip in advance.” What they mean is if you don’t go online within 10 minutes of opening day, April 1st, at 10 am EST, you will miss your chance to stay here for the whole year. You won’t be the first to get denied and certainly not the last. You might however, get lucky if you’re in the area for long enough and there is a sudden cancellation. 

    I believe I’m right in saying that the hype is worth it here, more than just because it’s difficult to get here and difficult to get a reservation. This is a beautiful place to camp and an amazing island to explore by bike, by kayak, and on foot.

    Each of the 5 sites offers a classic lean-to structure with a campfire ring and a picnic table. But it’s not the site which makes this place so special. Sticking out into the Gulf of Maine, this is one of the most remote islands with established camping and recreational trails on the coast. It feels like another world entirely than Mount Dessert Island, where the rest of Acadia National Park is located. By comparison, MDI feels like Central Park.

    There is fresh water a short walk away from the campground, and a bear proof food storage locker at each lean-to. Mosquitoes can be bad during the summer, so I would recommend bringing a bug net or small backpacking tent which you could set up in the lean-to for more protection and privacy. 

    Getting to the island is possible through the daily mailboat which goes directly to Duck Harbor from Stonington, but the best way to get there is to paddle up in a sea kayak as we did!

  • Sable W.
    Jul. 17, 2018

    Blackwoods Campground — Acadia National Park

    Super convenient camping in Acadia National Park

    Blackwoods is one of only a couple of campgrounds in Acadia National Park, which doesn't allow backpacking. It's connected to the South Ridge Trail, which gives you the opportunity to hike to Cadillac Mountain directly from the campground; we did this for the sunrise on our last day, and HIGHLY recommend it! (See the last picture.)

    Rangers consistently patrol the campground, even driving through a couple of times after quiet hours begin; I found this really helped keep the noise down, despite the number of campers. (The campground was sold out for the duration of our stay!)

    Each campsite has a fire ring and a picnic table, and sites are spaced decently; I would've appreciated a bit more privacy and space, but I'm sure the tree cover varies based on the site. My friend, who stayed at B121, seemed to have a bit more vegetation between her site and the surrounding sites.

    There are plenty of bathrooms throughout the campground, as well as taps with potable water. There is an ampitheatre which is used for nightly activities; I think it can be rented by groups, too. There are showers just outside the campground (8 quarters for 4 minutes; the water isn't always hot, though!) and you can also purchase wood at the shower facility.

    One of the routes run by the FREE shuttle bus stops at Blackwoods every hour during the summer; using this shuttle, you can get to Sieur de Monts, Otter Cliff, and the Village Green, where you can connect to any other bus. This is awesome, because it means you don't have to waste half the day jockeying for parking!

    Overall, I think Blackwoods Campground is a great value and a great place to camp while visiting Acadia.

  • Amanda G.
    May. 23, 2020

    Schoodic Woods Campground — Acadia National Park

    All around great

    We stayed for a week at one of the hike in sites, specifically the one furthest from the car/RV camping area. The sites are newer looking with nice tent pads, a bear box, and a picnic table. It’s a few minutes’ walk from the campsite to an immaculately clean vault toilet. The bathroom for the car camping area with running water, the dishwashing area, and WiFi were maybe a 2 minute walk beyond that. We had such an amazing time and spent the majority of our time on the Schoodic peninsula. We only went to the main part of the park twice the whole week. Plenty of trails, scenic views, and things to do just in Schoodic Woods. It’s also WAY less crowded than the main part of the park. Winter Harbor has a few restaurants and little shops but no big grocery/big box stores that I saw so stop on the way if you need stuff. The rangers were all very nice and helpful. I can’t wait to go back!

  • Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 5, 2020

    Hastings Campground

    Wonderful Fall Location

    This quiet spot is perfect for late season camping in the fall in New England. It is relatively small but there is a host on site who was incredibly friendly and attentive. Situated just off the Wild River and off of major roads, Hastings was incredibly peaceful while we were there. The sites are nicely spaced out and most have small wooded sections in between them for privacy. Additionally, sites are meticulously kept as are the two pit toilets available. 

    There is a water spogit a short walk from most campsites. Each site has a fire ring with grate, clear flat spots for pitching a tent or backing in an RV. Since I'm not an RV camper, I didn't pay much attention to those ameneties. Sites have a nice picnic table as well. There is plenty of space at each site to pitch a tent or two as well as a canapoy of some sort if you want. 

    While this place can get busy in the summer season, it's perfect for those in between seasons and super close to some great hiking in the White Mountains!

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 18, 2025

    Sunset Point RV Park

    Easternmost camping in the US!

    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.

  • Nancy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2022

    Northeast Whitewater Lodge

    Yurts and Tent Camping

    Northeast Whitewater is a mix of guide service, moose viewing tours, whitewater rafting, and camping. The camping options are yurts and primitive tent camping. There are no RV/Van camping facilities. All camping is walk-in as you can’t drive to your site but most campsites and yurts are not too far away. There are six yurts all with varying configurations, sleeping anywhere from 1-2 people (with king sized bed) up to up to six people (with bunk beds). All yurts have electricity and come equipped with heaters and fans; in addition, pillows, bedding and linens are supplied. Depending on the particular yurt you choose, some have small refrigerators, table and chairs, and nightstands. 

    Tent sites are primitive with fire pits and picnic tables. The ground is level and cleared so there is no problem finding a place to put your tent. The sites are fairly close together so you will definitely hear and see your neighbor. There is no water or port-a-potties at camping sites. One bathhouse is located adjacent to the main building and there is a dish washing station located there as well. The bathhouse was clean when we visited (but we were not there during the busy summer season as there are many rafting trips and those customers share the same bathroom). The bathhouse is pretty far away from the camping area which is inconvenient when you have to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night. All yurts and campsite have trash cans located at the site. Each site has a large fire pit and removable cooking grates are available. There are rustic log benches around the fire pits. 

    Yurts and campsites are located behind the main building/office but you still get some road noise as Route 6 is a heavily traveled road. As far as amenities, there is a volleyball net and corn holes. A covered pavilion is located between the campsites and the main building and has a few picnic tables underneath. The main building has a gift shop stocked with moose gifts, apparel, snacks, drinks, and an assortment of “camp stuff.” This is also where you can book a moose tour, rafting trip, or inflatable kayaks if you are feeling adventurous. 

    The campground is located between the towns of Monson and Greenville. The Monson General Store is a great little store with an assortment of grocery items and makes really good sandwiches and the nearby Lakeshore House Lodge and Pub has the most wonderful pot roast. Greenville has a larger grocery/trading post which has pretty much everything you need from shoes to lettuce. Hiking in the area is great! You can pick up the Appalachian Trail or head to Little Wilson Falls for a nice, wooded walk along a stream to a pretty waterfall. Borestone Mountain is nearby and provides amazing views.

  • L
    Aug. 20, 2021

    Desert of Maine Campground

    Aesthetically pleasing campground-- good for tent campers

    Desert of Maine campground is an excellent choice just 4-5 miles from the heart of Freeport at interstate exit # 22. This campground is well-imagined. Sites are close together, and some are small. There are 2 hike-in sites which are set apart. Wifi is provided throughout the campground and most sites have power. They must have studied "best practices" when designing this lovely campground. 

    I booked an extra night.

    This is an outdoor experience campground- not a wilderness adventure -- but perfect for young families…especially for those new to camping or those for whom a very sanitary classic bathroom is needed.Children find and entertain each other in the common area.

    Sites 19-27 face a shared square with excellent access to the modern and stylish bath house. Other sites have a somewhat further walk. Sites 17-27 are best for tents due to the configuration of the sites.. Tent sites # 2 & # 3 are short walk-in and very private, but lack easy access to the bath house. Almost all sites in this campground have shade and are under a beautiful canopy of old pine, maple and balsam.

    Site 24 is lovely & slightly set apart and cars are parked close by but not on the tent site. Site 27 is located down a steep slope and is very private but has difficult access. I would categorize site 27 as a hike-in site, but not # 24.  All sites are generally level and have been graded. Sites have scant privacy in front, but back up to forest. Sites 4, 6,17, 19, 23 & 26 have slightly more space but space is not the defining issue in this campground. RV's that are large should not try this campground. The maintenance is superb; and the thoughtful design of the overall campground is aesthetically pleasing. 

    This attractive campground is small-scale and personally managed. 

    Ice is available for purchase…as is wood. 

    Beware of speed trap on the 2 mile access road between the interstate & campground.


Guide to Maine

Maine offers a stunning backdrop for tent camping, with its diverse landscapes and abundant outdoor activities. Whether you're seeking serene lakeside spots or rugged mountain trails, there's a perfect campsite waiting for you.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

Tent campers like these nearby activities

Tips for tent camping near Maine

  • When visiting Shivers Island — Settlement Quarry Preserve, be prepared for a boat-in experience and bring your own water, as there are no facilities on the island.
  • At Omaha Beach, expect a rugged adventure with limited amenities; pack in your supplies and enjoy the peaceful riverside setting.
  • For a more remote experience, consider Upper Gravel Pit - Dispersed, where you can enjoy stunning mountain views and access to nearby hiking trails, but remember to bring all necessary supplies as facilities are minimal.