The best forest camping near Dexter

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Dexter’s forests aren’t just for walking through—you can camp right in the thick of them. With over 640 forest campsites, you’ll find everything from tucked-away clearings to pines that tower overhead. Average nights run about $49, but you can pitch your tent for as little as $15. You’ll spot fire rings at most sites, and bringing your dog? No problem. Showers are common, but you’ll still want to pack a towel. Fishing and swimming are regular pastimes at camp, while snow sports take over in winter. For spots with the most buzz, check Hole in the Wall Camping (157 reviews), Howling Goat Farm and Grange (130 reviews), or The Lonely Loon (76 reviews). If you’re after quiet mornings, lakeside fishing, or a crackling campfire, Dexter’s forests deliver.

97% (1.4K) 204 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Dexter

3. Hole in the Wall Camping

97%
(400)
45mi from Dexter · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
We purchased this land a few years ago when our neighbors decided to sell. It abuts our property They used it as a place for their family to gather and camp on during Maine wonderful summer season. It is a beautiful, quiet spot with a great view and a small pond. Hipcamp lets us share this spot and helps pay our property taxes.We are located in the western mountains of Maine in a summer community on Porter Lake. There is a beautiful view of New Vineyard mountain from our 3 acre field. We have 2 trailer sites with power and water (non potable) and an out house. The field has several fire pits and soft grassy spaces for pitching tents. The camping area is fairly private from our neighbors along the road. The site has a small private pond surrounded by trees you can sit and relax near. You can (walk/bike/drive) the 1/4 mile down the dirt road to the public beach. The beach has a public dock, boat ramp, swim float, picnic tables and grills. Paddle out to the island and try the rope swing with one of our kayaks or canoes. Be sure to check out the bald eagles that live in the white pine tree just a little farther down the island. You will hear the loons during your stay and possibly see a mother with her babies on her back. There are also ducks and ducklings and geese with gosling paddling about the lake. The state stocks the lake with trout, splake, and salmon if you like to fish. There is plenty to do right here!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night

7. 100 Mile Wilderness Cabin

99%
(81)
25mi from Dexter · 1 site · Lodging
This is a quaint, off grid cabin located in Elliotsville, Me., surrounded by wilderness, next to the Appalachian Trail in the 100 Mile Wilderness. Propane lights, glass front woodstove, fully operational kitchen, propane cookstove, fire pit out front, BBQ grill on porch. Firewood and propane and plenty of water at sink provided. 2 8ft kayaks for your use to explore all the ponds and lakes nearby. You can spend days or weeks exploring the area, hiking, biking, canoeing, mountain climbing and swimming. Its like going back in time a hundred years but you have some cell reception, unlike our ancestors. Have made several improvements to cabin not yet reflected in guest photos. Yeti type cooler provided for refrigeration of food for longer stays. The cabin is small but can accommodate 5 easily. Queen bed with bunk beds in 1st floor bedroom, full size and twin bed in upstairs bedroom. Clean linens provided. Open kitchen and living room.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$67
 / night

15. Orange Gate Sites

100%
(5)
43mi from Dexter · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We invite you to come stay at our location in the Western Maine mountains. We are located off of the Long Falls Dam Rd in Carrying Place Township, in the heart of Maine's wilderness. Our property offers beautiful mountain views; many nearby hiking trails; nearby swimming, boating, fishing and kayaking at Flagstaff Lake; along with numerous back roads to explore and look for wildlife. You can also find ATV trails about a half hour drive away in the town of Kingfield. Ensure you are guaranteed a spot just outside the Bigelow Preserve and everything it has to offer. We look forward to your visit. Our sites sit behind a locked gate that is monitored 24/7 with a security camera. Also, although we are remote, we do offer Wi-Fi for your convenience. Please take note that our sites are remote. We may be right off a paved road, but the closest town with a store is a half an hour drive. Also be mindful that this is the Maine wilderness, there are wild animals that frequent our location, along with biting insects such as deer flies and mosquitoes. This truly is a beautiful location, but please be sure to pack accordingly for your stay.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night

17. Cabin of the Woods at Tilden Pond

98%
(22)
45mi from Dexter · 1 site · Lodging
Winter camping is upon us! Soon you will be ice fishing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing in the Woods! Test your skills and enjoy the solitude of an all natural retreat. The Cabin will have some insulation this winter making your stay more comfortable. Bring your own heat source (if needed), or a good low temperature sleeping bag. Only 5 minutes off of Route 1 and even less from Route 3 near Belfast. There is a loft for sleeping with a mattress pad and two cots available for sleeping comfort. Enjoy the PRIVACY-over 230 acres of varied terrain typical of the Maine woods and wildlife including 1,200 feet of shoreline on the Tilden Pond. There is no public access to the 350-acre Tilden Pond. You can use the 10X14 Cabin which easily sleeps 4.. The Woods are separated by the Alder Brook which splits the entire property and flows into the pond. The Woods are an amazing place to de-stress, boost mental health and improve overall well-being naturally. There are two firepits and free firewood, fire starters. lighters and a dry tinder box along with hygienic supplies (Camp toilet, Biodegradable personal waste bags, Biodegradable soap, Toilet paper, hand sanitizer and candles) and a pit latrine. The Cabin of the Woods is close to popular Mid-coast towns like Camden, Rockport and Rockland with all of their amenities while enjoying life in this off-grid all-natural and relaxing setting. A 15-minute drive to Belfast allows you to find great lobster fresh from a lobster pound or pick up a meal and enjoy it while watching the daily life in Belfast Harbor and waterfront or other spots like Searsport Harbor or Sears Island. Short trip to Camden, Rockport and Rockland. Scenic 1 hour plus drive to Acadia National Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$34
 / night

18. Grangers Lakeside Camping

100%
(11)
21mi from Dexter · 2 sites · RVs
Lake Hebron is a deep water lake managed for cold water game fish. Easy access and good fishing make Lake Hebron a popular spot for local anglers. The Appalachian Trail follows the northwest corner of the lake, and Monson Village is nestled around its eastern end. Monson was once famous for its slate industry Examples of native slate may be seen along Maine Routes 6 and 15 and at quarries located in the town. A wonderful, serene place to visit. This 525-acre lake receives huge annual stockings of brook trout. In 1994,4,300 trout were stocked here; in 1995, another 4,300 brook trout were stocked, along with 250 landlocked salmon.Learn more about this land:This campsite is located on the beautiful shores of lake Hebron in Monson, Maine. It’s just minutes away from the Monson General Store, the Monson Arts Center, Borestone Mountain and so much more! Twenty minutes from Moosehead Lake, a few minutes from the Appalachian trail that starts the hundred mile wilderness, and home of the world renowned Monson Slate. Bring your kayaks or canoe to explore the 638 acres of pristine lake while you stay at our quiet, wooded, six acre property. We can also assist with Kayak rental as well. A wonderful place if you love listening to birds in the morning and loons in the evening. Beautiful sunrise views and vibrant sunsets. Great four wheeling nearby. We can assist with trail access and parking. 10 minutes to Abbot and 10 minutes to Shirley Mills. This location has the feel of a quiet, remote camping site with some wonderful conveniences, including power and WIFI. We are private landowners wanting to share our beautiful lakefront property with others who enjoy the same.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$47
 / night

19. Private Campsite w Lake option

97%
(19)
40mi from Dexter · 1 site · Tent, RV
Two Adults maximum(21 years and older), a Minimum $45 per night (without lake access) (with lake access and use of 2 kayaks, life jackets and paddles is an additional $40 or ($20per person). A private one campsite only, on a 3.5 acre forested lot. that is located across the camp road from the host's camp on beautiful, deep, spring fed Phillips/Lucerne Lake..The campsite is 30 minutes from Acadia National Park, 20 minutes from the Bangor Waterfront Concert Venue. (option) - lake access with two 15ft kayaks w/paddles and life jackets. The camp site can host tenting; or one small RV. * The campsite driveway ( marked by 2 thin orange driveway markers)is on the crest of a hill 200 yards prior to the 785 Lakeview Ave. address. (option) - a large 15' X 15 ' tent is available to rent with a queen size and single air mattress) . or the campsite can host one RV: the site does not have water or electrical hook up. But the host's camp has (option)an outdoor electrical box for use and an outdoor water faucet for use. There is a 20 gallon water barrel on the campsite and fire pit, outdoor table and chairs, and large trash barrel. Options- (option) - a basic small portable toilet is an available. The site is very private with a partial lakeview. The footpath from the campsite to the host's camp is about 150ft. and 75 more feet to lake access. There is a full service grocery store w/Dunkins and Amato's, Subway and Gas just seven minutes from campsite. (Option) - the host's camp has walk in lower level that has a queen size bed , refrigerator and living space w/television for rental time period options.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

20. Moss + Tide

100%
(12)
45mi from Dexter · 2 sites · Lodging
Unplug and reconnect with nature at this rustic campsite nestled among the mossy rocks and ferns of Cape Jellison in Stockton Springs. This is a raw site so bring your own gear, bedding, and supplies and experience Maine’s wild beauty up close. The campsite is set just off Rocky Point Road (a quiet dead end dirt road). While the tent itself is visible from the road, traffic is light — mostly neighbors and the occasional car misled by GPS heading toward nearby Sears Island. The campsites true gem is a wooded trail leading to your own beach access just ten minutes away. The site includes a sturdy platform tent with a queen-size bed frame (BYO bedding), a private off-grid toilet with a compostable bag system for your bathroom needs, and a simple camp shower bag you can fill with your own water for a quick rinse under the trees. There is no electricity or running water on-site. Explore two short wooded trails (interrupted by Fire Lane 3) to the stairs that lead to your beach access. At the end of the steps to the beach, you’ll find a second fire ring perfect for an evening drink or early morning coffee. Don’t forget to hunt for some of Maine’s treasured sea glass as a souvenir! Enjoy stunning views of Stockton Harbor, watch for eagles and deer, or while you’re hanging out on the beach, wander over to the Stockton Springs Yacht Club, where you’ll find a full service bar and restaurant right on the water. They also have’s kayak/canoe rentals! Nearby attractions include: -Fort Point State Park & Lighthouse (5 min) -Downtown Belfast (20 min) -Bucksport Waterfront (15 min) -Fort Knox/Observatory (10 mins) -Acadia National Park (~1 hr) -Bangor (45 min) Things to know: -Bring all your own supplies including bedding, lighting, firewood and water (however, whatever wood you can find at the site is yours to burn!) -No hookups or amenities beyond what is listed -Campfires allowed in designated fire rings only -Wildlife is abundant—please store food safely This site is perfect for seasoned campers looking for an off-grid escape, with a touch of coastal charm. Come ready for adventure, and leave with salty skin and beautiful memories!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$40
 / night

Dexter’s forests aren’t just for walking through—you can camp right in the thick of them. With over 640 forest campsites, you’ll find everything from tucked-away clearings to pines that tower overhead. Average nights run about $49, but you can pitch your tent for as little as $15. You’ll spot fire rings at most sites, and bringing your dog? No problem. Showers are common, but you’ll still want to pack a towel. Fishing and swimming are regular pastimes at camp, while snow sports take over in winter. For spots with the most buzz, check Hole in the Wall Camping (157 reviews), Howling Goat Farm and Grange (130 reviews), or The Lonely Loon (76 reviews). If you’re after quiet mornings, lakeside fishing, or a crackling campfire, Dexter’s forests deliver.

97% (1.4K) 204 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Dexter

3. Hole in the Wall Camping

97%
(400)
45mi from Dexter · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
We purchased this land a few years ago when our neighbors decided to sell. It abuts our property They used it as a place for their family to gather and camp on during Maine wonderful summer season. It is a beautiful, quiet spot with a great view and a small pond. Hipcamp lets us share this spot and helps pay our property taxes.We are located in the western mountains of Maine in a summer community on Porter Lake. There is a beautiful view of New Vineyard mountain from our 3 acre field. We have 2 trailer sites with power and water (non potable) and an out house. The field has several fire pits and soft grassy spaces for pitching tents. The camping area is fairly private from our neighbors along the road. The site has a small private pond surrounded by trees you can sit and relax near. You can (walk/bike/drive) the 1/4 mile down the dirt road to the public beach. The beach has a public dock, boat ramp, swim float, picnic tables and grills. Paddle out to the island and try the rope swing with one of our kayaks or canoes. Be sure to check out the bald eagles that live in the white pine tree just a little farther down the island. You will hear the loons during your stay and possibly see a mother with her babies on her back. There are also ducks and ducklings and geese with gosling paddling about the lake. The state stocks the lake with trout, splake, and salmon if you like to fish. There is plenty to do right here!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night

7. 100 Mile Wilderness Cabin

99%
(81)
25mi from Dexter · 1 site · Lodging
This is a quaint, off grid cabin located in Elliotsville, Me., surrounded by wilderness, next to the Appalachian Trail in the 100 Mile Wilderness. Propane lights, glass front woodstove, fully operational kitchen, propane cookstove, fire pit out front, BBQ grill on porch. Firewood and propane and plenty of water at sink provided. 2 8ft kayaks for your use to explore all the ponds and lakes nearby. You can spend days or weeks exploring the area, hiking, biking, canoeing, mountain climbing and swimming. Its like going back in time a hundred years but you have some cell reception, unlike our ancestors. Have made several improvements to cabin not yet reflected in guest photos. Yeti type cooler provided for refrigeration of food for longer stays. The cabin is small but can accommodate 5 easily. Queen bed with bunk beds in 1st floor bedroom, full size and twin bed in upstairs bedroom. Clean linens provided. Open kitchen and living room.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$67
 / night

15. Orange Gate Sites

100%
(5)
43mi from Dexter · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
We invite you to come stay at our location in the Western Maine mountains. We are located off of the Long Falls Dam Rd in Carrying Place Township, in the heart of Maine's wilderness. Our property offers beautiful mountain views; many nearby hiking trails; nearby swimming, boating, fishing and kayaking at Flagstaff Lake; along with numerous back roads to explore and look for wildlife. You can also find ATV trails about a half hour drive away in the town of Kingfield. Ensure you are guaranteed a spot just outside the Bigelow Preserve and everything it has to offer. We look forward to your visit. Our sites sit behind a locked gate that is monitored 24/7 with a security camera. Also, although we are remote, we do offer Wi-Fi for your convenience. Please take note that our sites are remote. We may be right off a paved road, but the closest town with a store is a half an hour drive. Also be mindful that this is the Maine wilderness, there are wild animals that frequent our location, along with biting insects such as deer flies and mosquitoes. This truly is a beautiful location, but please be sure to pack accordingly for your stay.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night

17. Cabin of the Woods at Tilden Pond

98%
(22)
45mi from Dexter · 1 site · Lodging
Winter camping is upon us! Soon you will be ice fishing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing in the Woods! Test your skills and enjoy the solitude of an all natural retreat. The Cabin will have some insulation this winter making your stay more comfortable. Bring your own heat source (if needed), or a good low temperature sleeping bag. Only 5 minutes off of Route 1 and even less from Route 3 near Belfast. There is a loft for sleeping with a mattress pad and two cots available for sleeping comfort. Enjoy the PRIVACY-over 230 acres of varied terrain typical of the Maine woods and wildlife including 1,200 feet of shoreline on the Tilden Pond. There is no public access to the 350-acre Tilden Pond. You can use the 10X14 Cabin which easily sleeps 4.. The Woods are separated by the Alder Brook which splits the entire property and flows into the pond. The Woods are an amazing place to de-stress, boost mental health and improve overall well-being naturally. There are two firepits and free firewood, fire starters. lighters and a dry tinder box along with hygienic supplies (Camp toilet, Biodegradable personal waste bags, Biodegradable soap, Toilet paper, hand sanitizer and candles) and a pit latrine. The Cabin of the Woods is close to popular Mid-coast towns like Camden, Rockport and Rockland with all of their amenities while enjoying life in this off-grid all-natural and relaxing setting. A 15-minute drive to Belfast allows you to find great lobster fresh from a lobster pound or pick up a meal and enjoy it while watching the daily life in Belfast Harbor and waterfront or other spots like Searsport Harbor or Sears Island. Short trip to Camden, Rockport and Rockland. Scenic 1 hour plus drive to Acadia National Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$34
 / night

18. Grangers Lakeside Camping

100%
(11)
21mi from Dexter · 2 sites · RVs
Lake Hebron is a deep water lake managed for cold water game fish. Easy access and good fishing make Lake Hebron a popular spot for local anglers. The Appalachian Trail follows the northwest corner of the lake, and Monson Village is nestled around its eastern end. Monson was once famous for its slate industry Examples of native slate may be seen along Maine Routes 6 and 15 and at quarries located in the town. A wonderful, serene place to visit. This 525-acre lake receives huge annual stockings of brook trout. In 1994,4,300 trout were stocked here; in 1995, another 4,300 brook trout were stocked, along with 250 landlocked salmon.Learn more about this land:This campsite is located on the beautiful shores of lake Hebron in Monson, Maine. It’s just minutes away from the Monson General Store, the Monson Arts Center, Borestone Mountain and so much more! Twenty minutes from Moosehead Lake, a few minutes from the Appalachian trail that starts the hundred mile wilderness, and home of the world renowned Monson Slate. Bring your kayaks or canoe to explore the 638 acres of pristine lake while you stay at our quiet, wooded, six acre property. We can also assist with Kayak rental as well. A wonderful place if you love listening to birds in the morning and loons in the evening. Beautiful sunrise views and vibrant sunsets. Great four wheeling nearby. We can assist with trail access and parking. 10 minutes to Abbot and 10 minutes to Shirley Mills. This location has the feel of a quiet, remote camping site with some wonderful conveniences, including power and WIFI. We are private landowners wanting to share our beautiful lakefront property with others who enjoy the same.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$47
 / night

19. Private Campsite w Lake option

97%
(19)
40mi from Dexter · 1 site · Tent, RV
Two Adults maximum(21 years and older), a Minimum $45 per night (without lake access) (with lake access and use of 2 kayaks, life jackets and paddles is an additional $40 or ($20per person). A private one campsite only, on a 3.5 acre forested lot. that is located across the camp road from the host's camp on beautiful, deep, spring fed Phillips/Lucerne Lake..The campsite is 30 minutes from Acadia National Park, 20 minutes from the Bangor Waterfront Concert Venue. (option) - lake access with two 15ft kayaks w/paddles and life jackets. The camp site can host tenting; or one small RV. * The campsite driveway ( marked by 2 thin orange driveway markers)is on the crest of a hill 200 yards prior to the 785 Lakeview Ave. address. (option) - a large 15' X 15 ' tent is available to rent with a queen size and single air mattress) . or the campsite can host one RV: the site does not have water or electrical hook up. But the host's camp has (option)an outdoor electrical box for use and an outdoor water faucet for use. There is a 20 gallon water barrel on the campsite and fire pit, outdoor table and chairs, and large trash barrel. Options- (option) - a basic small portable toilet is an available. The site is very private with a partial lakeview. The footpath from the campsite to the host's camp is about 150ft. and 75 more feet to lake access. There is a full service grocery store w/Dunkins and Amato's, Subway and Gas just seven minutes from campsite. (Option) - the host's camp has walk in lower level that has a queen size bed , refrigerator and living space w/television for rental time period options.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

20. Moss + Tide

100%
(12)
45mi from Dexter · 2 sites · Lodging
Unplug and reconnect with nature at this rustic campsite nestled among the mossy rocks and ferns of Cape Jellison in Stockton Springs. This is a raw site so bring your own gear, bedding, and supplies and experience Maine’s wild beauty up close. The campsite is set just off Rocky Point Road (a quiet dead end dirt road). While the tent itself is visible from the road, traffic is light — mostly neighbors and the occasional car misled by GPS heading toward nearby Sears Island. The campsites true gem is a wooded trail leading to your own beach access just ten minutes away. The site includes a sturdy platform tent with a queen-size bed frame (BYO bedding), a private off-grid toilet with a compostable bag system for your bathroom needs, and a simple camp shower bag you can fill with your own water for a quick rinse under the trees. There is no electricity or running water on-site. Explore two short wooded trails (interrupted by Fire Lane 3) to the stairs that lead to your beach access. At the end of the steps to the beach, you’ll find a second fire ring perfect for an evening drink or early morning coffee. Don’t forget to hunt for some of Maine’s treasured sea glass as a souvenir! Enjoy stunning views of Stockton Harbor, watch for eagles and deer, or while you’re hanging out on the beach, wander over to the Stockton Springs Yacht Club, where you’ll find a full service bar and restaurant right on the water. They also have’s kayak/canoe rentals! Nearby attractions include: -Fort Point State Park & Lighthouse (5 min) -Downtown Belfast (20 min) -Bucksport Waterfront (15 min) -Fort Knox/Observatory (10 mins) -Acadia National Park (~1 hr) -Bangor (45 min) Things to know: -Bring all your own supplies including bedding, lighting, firewood and water (however, whatever wood you can find at the site is yours to burn!) -No hookups or amenities beyond what is listed -Campfires allowed in designated fire rings only -Wildlife is abundant—please store food safely This site is perfect for seasoned campers looking for an off-grid escape, with a touch of coastal charm. Come ready for adventure, and leave with salty skin and beautiful memories!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$40
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field