Camping in Portland, ME, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

United States
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Maine
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Portland

96% (2516 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Portland

Under $50

Top camping destinations

Green Mountain National Forest

1614 campgrounds

Lake Winnipesaukee

1297 campgrounds

White Mountain National Forest

1236 campgrounds

Norwich

240 campgrounds

Star Hosts in Portland

100%

(16)

Dancing Lawn

1 site · Lodging7 acres · West Kennebunk, ME

When we first purchased our property, we were made aware of a young fella needing a spot to set up his yurt. He lived with us for two years before moving along. We had enjoyed having him and his yurt on our land so when he left, It left a virtual and metaphorical hole. A couple years later we had an opportunity to purchase a yurt from an outdoor adventure company and so it began. We improved upon our tenant's idea by adding a proper outhouse and outdoor shower area. The space offered us a quiet haven during hectic times and now we are ready to share that opportunity. Our yurt sits on a quiet and private nook on our 7 acre property. We are right in between Kennebunk and Biddeford so there are quite a number of areas to explore if you make us your home base. It is a lovely 6 mile ride to Goose Rocks Beach or you can spend an afternoon walking around Dock's Square in Kennebunkport. Biddeford is a rapidly rebuilding mill town that has made several high profile food and travel publications for its great dining spots. If you are visiting to get away from the city, we are less than a mile away from the Eastern Trail which connects South Portland to Kittery, ME. Bring a bike or plan a quiet walk. We have a little fire pit so feel free to spend the day here and enjoy the birds. We hope to see you soon Kelly and Jason

Hidden Valley Nature Center

8 sites · Lodging, Tents1000 acres · Newcastle, ME

HIDDEN VALLEY NATURE CENTER IS 1,000 ACRES OF PROTECTED LAND IN JEFFERSON, MAINE - RICH WITH A VARIETY OF HABITAT AND TERRAIN INCLUDING OVER A MILE OF SHORE FRONT ON LITTLE DYER POND. Miles of multi-use trails great for hiking and biking, rolled and groomed XC ski trails, and several rustic huts and tent sites are waiting for you. Hidden Valley Nature Center (HVNC) is your forest. HVNC is part of Midcoast Conservancy, and a portion of the booking fees goes to support our mission to protect and restore vital lands and waters on a scale that matters. Midcoast Conservancy members receive a 40% discount. Not a member? Visit the Midcoast Conservancy website and join through the "donate" button at the top right of the home page. Your membership confirmation email will include your discount code. Thank you!

Minglewood

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Freeport, ME

Private secluded site in a wooded setting with a large camp fire and sitting area. Located approximately one mile from Winslow Beach and within 10 minutes from downtown Freeport. Close to nearby Bliss woods hiking trails and within 15 minutes from restaurants and festivities offered in Portland. While offering private seclusion in the pine woods, you’ll find endless activities minutes away on the coast of Casco Bay.

Center Pond Farm

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Phippsburg, ME

Center Pond Farm is a 5 acre organic vegetable farm on the banks of Center pond in beautiful Phippsburg Maine. Phippsburg is home to many sandy beaches, Popham Beach State Park, and many public lands with trails to explore.

Tir na nOg Farm

5 sites · Lodging, Tents30 acres · Pownal, ME

Highland cattle graze at the forest's edge on our Celtic-heritage farm: a gentle retreat with options for farm-fresh breakfasts, woodland wandering, and campfires complete with Gaelic songs and bagpipes! Our 40-acre farm includes heritage-breed animals, honeybees, organic gardens, and over 30 acres of conservation woodlands. We favor scythes over tractors--your stay will be quiet and fume-free! Bradbury Mountain and several trail networks are nearby, along with rivers, ocean beaches, and an excellent locavore food scene. Since the early 1800s, this land on the edge of Chandler Brook has nourished bodies and spirits alike. Sloping pastures meet well-managed woodlands, making this a haven for both humans and wildlife. Since the 1980s, we have worked to restore the soil and make a "hand-built" life as farmers using pre-industrial organic methods. We keep bees, maintain pollinator habitats, tend an orchard of heirloom-variety fruit trees, and conserve rare heritage-breed animals, including Tamworth and Mangalitsa pigs and Scottish Highland Cattle. Our shared love for Celtic folk culture has blended naturally with our love of sustainable agriculture to create Tir na nOg Farm. Today, the work of restoration continues with the help of farm partners, family, friends, WWOOFers, and other volunteers. This land is already better than we found it, but we hope it will remain a gathering-ground of culture and agriculture, tradition and innovation for generations to come.

12 top campgrounds near Portland

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Center Pond Farm

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Phippsburg, ME

Center Pond Farm is a 5 acre organic vegetable farm on the banks of Center pond in beautiful Phippsburg Maine. Phippsburg is home to many sandy beaches, Popham Beach State Park, and many public lands with trails to explore.

Minglewood

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Freeport, ME

Private secluded site in a wooded setting with a large camp fire and sitting area. Located approximately one mile from Winslow Beach and within 10 minutes from downtown Freeport. Close to nearby Bliss woods hiking trails and within 15 minutes from restaurants and festivities offered in Portland. While offering private seclusion in the pine woods, you’ll find endless activities minutes away on the coast of Casco Bay.

Dancing Lawn

1 site · Lodging7 acres · West Kennebunk, ME

When we first purchased our property, we were made aware of a young fella needing a spot to set up his yurt. He lived with us for two years before moving along. We had enjoyed having him and his yurt on our land so when he left, It left a virtual and metaphorical hole. A couple years later we had an opportunity to purchase a yurt from an outdoor adventure company and so it began. We improved upon our tenant's idea by adding a proper outhouse and outdoor shower area. The space offered us a quiet haven during hectic times and now we are ready to share that opportunity. Our yurt sits on a quiet and private nook on our 7 acre property. We are right in between Kennebunk and Biddeford so there are quite a number of areas to explore if you make us your home base. It is a lovely 6 mile ride to Goose Rocks Beach or you can spend an afternoon walking around Dock's Square in Kennebunkport. Biddeford is a rapidly rebuilding mill town that has made several high profile food and travel publications for its great dining spots. If you are visiting to get away from the city, we are less than a mile away from the Eastern Trail which connects South Portland to Kittery, ME. Bring a bike or plan a quiet walk. We have a little fire pit so feel free to spend the day here and enjoy the birds. We hope to see you soon Kelly and Jason

Hidden Valley Nature Center

8 sites · Lodging, Tents1000 acres · Newcastle, ME

HIDDEN VALLEY NATURE CENTER IS 1,000 ACRES OF PROTECTED LAND IN JEFFERSON, MAINE - RICH WITH A VARIETY OF HABITAT AND TERRAIN INCLUDING OVER A MILE OF SHORE FRONT ON LITTLE DYER POND. Miles of multi-use trails great for hiking and biking, rolled and groomed XC ski trails, and several rustic huts and tent sites are waiting for you. Hidden Valley Nature Center (HVNC) is your forest. HVNC is part of Midcoast Conservancy, and a portion of the booking fees goes to support our mission to protect and restore vital lands and waters on a scale that matters. Midcoast Conservancy members receive a 40% discount. Not a member? Visit the Midcoast Conservancy website and join through the "donate" button at the top right of the home page. Your membership confirmation email will include your discount code. Thank you!

A safe place to stay on the way

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Topsham, ME

Lovely forest behind our home, available to travelers for tenting or RV. A safe place to stay as you're stopping through. Exactly 4.8 miles from the 295 off-ramp and Route 1. A private wooded lot on a beautiful road with farms and woodland cradled by the Cathance and Muddy Rivers which flow onward to Merrymeeting Bay, the Kennebec, and the ocean beyond. Some road noise from Middlesex road during commuting times that quiets down for sleeping. Topsham is lovely and I'm grateful to live here and share this space with travelers! Note that the service fee goes to Hipcamp and I wish I could remove it. Learn more about this land: Available to travelers for tenting or RV. A safe place to stay as you're stopping through. Total property size is 3.5 acres. Midcoast Maine has an endless bounty of treasures for visitors in all seasons. Hiking, biking, boating, history, art, swimming, food, and cultural events with beautiful nature surrounding it all. The Tarbox Preserve, a Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust property with hiking and skiing, is 2 lots up the road. Head of Tide park with a small waterfall is 2.2 miles to the west. Grocery: Our towns (Topsham and Brunswick) have several grocery stores: Hannaford, Shaw's, Walmart/Target grocery, and a wonderful natural foods store Morning Glory Natural Foods. We have many farm stands with organic and locally grown produce closely nearby - ask us to help you locate them! Food: Brunswick is restaurant and brewery heaven! Amazing beers, wood fired pizza, sushi, Thai, Vietnamese, Greek, German, Colombian street food, Filipino, deli, Fusion and more! Also check out Reny's - A Maine Adventure for your needed supplies. Water and respite available here for a day or two, if this area is your destination or if you're on the road toward an adventure. A single private site. We are not a campground, this is the back part of our land that we hope to offer as respite and safety for travelers looking for this kind of place to stay. We give absolute privacy to campers in the hours 4pm-11am. Please consider that we might be on the lower property during the middle of the day: 11am-4pm, which matches most of our visitors needs as they are using the property as an evening and morning stopover. Please visit the Maine Forest Service Fire Danger Report if you are considering requesting a campfire. Fires are not allowed when the fire danger is High through Extreme. We will talk about fire safety if the danger level is Moderate. Thanks for being safe! https://www.maine.gov/dacf/mfs/wildfire_danger_report/index.html

Tir na nOg Farm

5 sites · Lodging, Tents30 acres · Pownal, ME

Highland cattle graze at the forest's edge on our Celtic-heritage farm: a gentle retreat with options for farm-fresh breakfasts, woodland wandering, and campfires complete with Gaelic songs and bagpipes! Our 40-acre farm includes heritage-breed animals, honeybees, organic gardens, and over 30 acres of conservation woodlands. We favor scythes over tractors--your stay will be quiet and fume-free! Bradbury Mountain and several trail networks are nearby, along with rivers, ocean beaches, and an excellent locavore food scene. Since the early 1800s, this land on the edge of Chandler Brook has nourished bodies and spirits alike. Sloping pastures meet well-managed woodlands, making this a haven for both humans and wildlife. Since the 1980s, we have worked to restore the soil and make a "hand-built" life as farmers using pre-industrial organic methods. We keep bees, maintain pollinator habitats, tend an orchard of heirloom-variety fruit trees, and conserve rare heritage-breed animals, including Tamworth and Mangalitsa pigs and Scottish Highland Cattle. Our shared love for Celtic folk culture has blended naturally with our love of sustainable agriculture to create Tir na nOg Farm. Today, the work of restoration continues with the help of farm partners, family, friends, WWOOFers, and other volunteers. This land is already better than we found it, but we hope it will remain a gathering-ground of culture and agriculture, tradition and innovation for generations to come.

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Insulated Tiny Cabin

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Freeport, ME

We have an 8X8 cabin available in a small grove on the edge of our homestead/medicinal herb farm. The cabin has a full size bed (bring your own pillows and bedding) with some floor space for a small cot or sleeping pad. The space allows for two adults and two small children, anymore than that would be very tight. The cabin is insulated so the road traffic isn’t bad but it is noticeable at certain hours when the window is open. There is a large parking area with about a 100 yard walk across a lawn and then another 100 yard walk through an uneven wooded trail to the cabin. We have two composting toilet outhouses available for guests use that we take care of on a daily basis.Inside of our large greenhouse, there is a hot water outdoor semi-private shower, only biodegradable soap that we provide can be used. There is also a kitchen and seating area in the greenhouse with a propane grill, toaster oven, microwave and electric kettle and small coffee maker/French press. The greenhouse is a communal space that our family uses as a wood shop and greenhouse space so while the kitchen and shower area are kept clean and clear for guests, the rest of the greenhouse is a working space that can be in various states depending on what projects we have going on. Dogs are allowed but they need to be leashed due to our free ranging ducks and the closeness of the road. We can occasionally provide eggs and some veggies and herbs for tea for a small fee if it’s arranged in advance.We provide a fire pit and kindling but ask that you bring your own fire wood that has been purchased in the area so as not to bring in any new pests.The parking area is large enough if you want to bring a boat or trailer.Our spot is 3 miles from downtown Freeport and is located near a commuter road so it’s easy access to many spots.Freeport is a coastal town with two state parks, lots of great diverse trails which are well maintained and lots of restaurants/breweries. We are a short drive from Portland, Brunswick and Bath which both have lots of parks and restaurants. Lisbon falls and new Glouster also have great trails and restaurants that are amazing yet less crowded than Portland. We are a short drive from family destinations like the desert of Maine in Freeport, Maine wildlife park in grey and the old orchard boardwalk. We are about 40 min from popham beach to the north and 40 min to crescent beach, old orchard beach and Scarborough beach to the south.As hosts, we are around if you need us but happy to give as much space and privacy as you would like. If we are out working in the fields or hanging out with our kids, we are happy to give tours or talk about any of the gardens or plants that catch your interest. This is a working farm so walking around must be at your own risk, there are bees and ticks and some tripping hazards to be mindful of.We have rented this cabin through Air b-n-b for several years. We have switched to Hipcamp as it is more aligned with our values. You can find our listing there (calendar blocked off) with lots of reviews.Learn more about this land:We have an 8X8 cabin available in a small grove on the edge of our homestead/medicinal herb farm. The cabin has a full size bed (bring your own pillows and bedding) with some floor space for a small cot or sleeping pad. The space allows for two adults and two small children, anymore than that would be very tight. The cabin is insulated so the road traffic isn’t bad but it is noticeable at certain hours when the window is open. There is a large parking area with about a 100 yard walk across a lawn and then another 100 yard walk through an uneven wooded trail to the cabin. We have two composting toilet outhouses available for guests use that we take care of on a daily basis.Inside of our large greenhouse, there is a hot water outdoor semi-private shower, only biodegradable soap that we provide can be used. There is also a kitchen and seating area in the greenhouse with a propane grill, toaster oven, microwave and electric kettle and small coffee maker/French press. The greenhouse is a communal space that our family uses as a wood shop and greenhouse space so while the kitchen and shower area are kept clean and clear for guests, the rest of the greenhouse is a working space that can be in various states depending on what projects we have going on. Dogs are allowed but they need to be leashed due to our free ranging ducks and the closeness of the road. We can occasionally provide eggs and some veggies and herbs for tea for a small fee if it’s arranged in advance. We provide a fire pit and kindling but ask that you bring your own fire wood that has been purchased in the area so as not to bring in any new pests.The parking area is large enough if you want to bring a boat or trailer.Our spot is 3 miles from downtown Freeport and is located near a commuter road so it’s easy access to many spots.Freeport is a coastal town with two state parks, lots of great diverse trails which are well maintained and lots of restaurants/breweries. We are a short drive from Portland, Brunswick and Bath which both have lots of parks and restaurants. Lisbon falls and new Glouster also have great trails and restaurants that are amazing yet less crowded than Portland. We are a short drive from family destinations like the desert of Maine in Freeport, Maine wildlife park in grey and the old orchard boardwalk. We are about 40 min from popham beach to the north and 40 min to crescent beach, old orchard beach and Scarborough beach to the south.As hosts, we are around if you need us but happy to give as much space and privacy as you would like. If we are out working in the fields or hanging out with our kids, we are happy to give tours or talk about any of the gardens or plants that catch your interest. This is a working farm so walking around must be at your own risk, there are bees and ticks and some tripping hazards to be mindful of.We have rented this cabin through Air b-n-b for several years. We have switched to Hipcamp as it is more aligned with our values. You can find our listing there (calendar blocked off) with lots of reviews.

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The Harraseeket Campsite

1 site · RV2 acres · Freeport, ME

Learn more about this land: Private 1.5 acre field off of Staples Point Road, 3 miles from downtown Freeport, 1 mile to Winslow Park. Field is surrounded mostly by forrest, only non-drinking water provided from the garden hose at the entrance to the field. Whatever you bring in, you take out; garbage, human waste, etc. There is a camp fire with benches, plenty of fire wood and a luggable loo if needed.

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Tucker N.’s land

2 sites · Lodging, Tents105 acres · Alna, ME

Our cabin is an off grid post and beam structure that we built 6 years ago. It's got a full kitchen, wood stove, and screened porch. The water is limited as is the electricity This is a small two story timber frame cabin off grid and secluded deep in the woods. It has limited water/power with a separate outhouse. The cabin has a king sized bed in the loft with a child size fold down bunk above it; there is also a pull out couch on the first floor. As well as a kitchen, screened in porch and fire pit. Linen, dishes and utensils are not included please bring all that you need. There is a propane 4 burner stove with oven and solar shower bags. Trash and campfire wood is included. We are very busy with kids and work, we try our best to clean and re-supply between guests but it is not always possible, please let us know if something needs attention!

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Slippery Rock Trails LLC

5 sites · Lodging, Tents400 acres · Greene, ME

Forty five years ago, our family started assembling 400 acres of woods and fields on the banks of the beautiful Androscoggin River. We enjoy actively managing the property for wildlife habitat and tree growth. The diverse landscape includes over 1/2 a mile of river frontage, a 10 acre wildlife pond, rolling hills in the meadows and steep forested terrain with more than 10 miles of multi-use trails running throughout. Our lands have long been open to local hikers, bikers and cross country skiers, we are excited to share this beautiful property with a larger community. Scout for wildlife and birds, on our private 400 acres of forests and fields. Tire yourself by hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, or cross country skiing the 10 miles of private trails. Located across the river from Riverlands State Park, just minutes from Lewiston-Auburn, Bates College, local breweries and just 2 1/2 hours from Boston. Wildlife abounds both on the property and across the river at Androscoggin Riverlands State Park.Quite often, a gentle breeze off the water will offer relief from black flies and mosquitoes, but the right bug repellent is recommended especially to fend off those pesky ticks that are so common in Maine.

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Hazelbrook Cabin at Full Plate Farm

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Round Pond, ME

Raising our food and building community here in Midcoast Maine.

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Many Moons

2 sites · Tents10 acres · New Gloucester, ME

Welcome to Many Moons Farm, a peaceful farm that blends central convenience with the serenity of rural surroundings. Situated near Pinelands Farm, which offers an array of multi-use trails, and Bradybury Mountain State Park, your escape to nature and trails is just steps away. As a work in progress, Many Moons Farm invites you to witness its ongoing transformation. On the property feel free to walk down to the pond, which is covered in ice in the winter and full of frogs and peepers in the summer. And be sure to catch the sunrise over the field across the way or meander through the woods surrounding the property. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds the farm, where each sunrise and sunset paints a canvas and reminds you to take a breath and be present where you are. Whether you choose to explore the nearby trails, embark on a journey through the woods, or simply bask in the peace that the farm offers, there's something for every nature enthusiast. As you become a part of the Many Moons Farm experience, you'll find that the journey is as rewarding as the destination. Come enjoy the evolving beauty of this peaceful haven and discover the joys that each passing day brings to the farm.

Available this weekend

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WildWalkWays at Eastern Plant

10 sites · Tents25 acres · Georgetown, ME

In 1987 a long search for the ideal, rare plant nursery ended when I found this property. Years of planting and careful tending have now brought me to the campground phase I've always wanted. This property is blessed with fields, meadows, big trees, lake, streams, beavers, cliffs, bald eagles and more. (AND LATELY THE RARE STELLAR SEA EAGLE IN THIS AREA!) Located in lower mid coast Maine, near historic Bath and famous Reid state park. You drive thru the nursery on a private dirt lane, then park and walk 2 to 10 minutes to private campsites. Our place has a true wilderness feel yet is close to civilization! Come join me for a day or more! Note the nursery is park like...there is NO commercial feel to it. GREETINGS CAMPERS. WILDWALKWAYS is a great back to nature place to camp ...with incredible reviews, privacy and big sites and only minutes from famous REID State Park. Bald Eagles soar daily here! PLEASE READ THE RULES SECTION AND ARRIVAL TIME INFO BEFORE BOOKING ....... We RANKED SECOND in the state in 2020 and many new friends were made! THIS SECTION HAS 3 TRULY EXCITING SITES OFFERING GREAT VALUE AND DRAMA! TWO OF THOSE SITES ARE HUGE! (7 SITES IN OTHER SECTIONS) PLEASE PLEASE READ the rules and regulations BEFORE booking and ask questions BEFORE BOOKING. ...... ...... ALL our sites are also, optionally available stocked, in two ways for $39 or $23, with amenities people forget ...saves you TIME AND LOTS of lugging. Sites here in WildwalkwaysTHREE, are 11 to 15 minutes from parking. Details are below. STREAMSIDE OVERLOOK SITE is "ONLY" for one or two people, take note!!! MOUNTAIN MEADOWS SITE can accommodate 5 people. HOBBIT HOLLOW SITE can accommodate 6 people. It is ONLY for 2 or more people READ THE GLORIOUS REVIEW FROM CHRISTINA OF THE STREAMSIDE OVERLOOK SITE. FROM THE HEART on the Coronavirus: our campsites are huge and clean, with plenty of SPACE between them, there are NO crowds here. Bathroom tents are cleaned and sanitized regularly. We are the 'un campground' campground. Our rural area of Maine is a wonderful place with clean air. ENJOY NATURE, ENJOY CAMPING! Inquire with questions, thank you. CLIFFS! STREAM! PRIVACY! ADVENTURE! FURNISHED! THREE GREAT SITES! Site 1-Streamside Overlook, Site 2-Mountain Meadows and Site 3-Hobbit Hollow These sites can be PARTLY FURNISHED with two options. For an additional $39 or $23 PER BOOK, FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE! We highly recommend this option. Details below For those wanting a real Maine adventure and privacy, this is it. To get to two of these two sites, you walk the same relatively flat logging road as the other sites: which is about an eight minute walk from parking. Then, you venture down a short, 20 foot hill with rock steps, to a small mossy island with giant 5 foot Ostrich Ferns. Take the left fork and really cool "boardwalk" to the dramatic Mountain Meadows Site, which leads to a small waterfall. Take the right fork to the exciting and magical "2 level," Streamside Overlook Site. To get to the HOBBITT HOLLOW SITE there are no steps but it's a longer walk, about 14 minutes. Hobbitts will never hurt you. Site 1- Streamside Overlook: This site for one or two people only! Once onto the small island, a one minute walk over rustic boardwalk trails takes you to a stone bridge over a small stream, to the Streamside Overlook site. Once across, you are greeted by a neat fire pit right AT THE STREAMS EDGE, with space for chairs next to the stream. Then a short, 20 foot trek up a hill leads to your tent site! The site dramatically looks down to the woodland stream, the fire pit and off to a salt marsh to the right. In back of you are huge cliffs, giant moss covered rocks and privacy. It's an awesome site BUT NOT for those bringing tons of stuff. So, we can partly furnish it for you. NOTE: you may of course bring what you want, we are just trying to make it easier for you. 12 MINUTES FROM PARKING. TWO OPTIONS TO FURNISH: OPTION 1: For an additional and optional $39 per Book, YOUR SITE COMES SUPPLIED WITH: a table, two chairs, cooking utensils (pot, sauce pan, cast iron skillet, bbq tongs, spatulas, steamer, plates, soup bowls, large cups, knives-forks-spoons-larger knife ( real ones! ) cooking grate for firepit, grate scraper, veg. peeler, kitchen scissors, 2 oven mitts, paper towels, condiments-salt, pepper, ketchup, sugar, 1 gallon of water and bundle of firewood. WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS UPGRADE, THESE ARE ITEMS MANY FORGET...IT SAVES YOU TIME AND LUGGING AND PROVIDES ALL THE BASICS FOR A COOKOUT EXCEPT THE FOOD! OPTION 2: JUST THE CHAIRS, TABLE, GRILL GRATE AND WOOD $23 The fees for this are collected here. The tent area at this site is charming but not super large due to grade, yet it will comfortably fit a two person tent or two one person tents. The site area itself IS VERY LARGE with dramatic rock ledges. ! Total walk from parking 12 minutes. We supply a four wheeled gorilla cart to get your stuff to sites. (it gets you most of the way) STREAMSIDE OVERLOOK SITE IS AMAZING! Site 2-MOUNTAIN MEADOWS SITE is facing the salt marsh, waterfall and gigantic, mossy boulders. It has a huge footprint and genuinely feels like you are in a national park. Rock cliffs covered in moss are your dramatic backdrop. Trees along the marsh have been limbed up to give you a great view. A cool boardwalk access is the final trail. This is perhaps my most favorite spot on the entire property. It can also be supplied like STREAMSIDE OVERLOOK and has a truly beautiful fire pit All of our sites are great, these two are showpieces! It's an awesome site BUT NOT for those bringing tons of stuff. So, we can optionally, partly furnish it for you as above. Let us know when booking. That fee will be collected here. NOTE: you may bring what you want, we are just trying to make it easier for you. For an additional $39 per Book, YOUR SITE COMES SUPPLIED WITH: a table, two chairs, cooking utensils (pot, saucepan, cast iron skillet, bbq tongs, spatulas, plates, bowls, cups, knives-forks-spoons-larger knife ( real ones! ) cooking grate for firepit, scraper, veg. peeler, 2 oven mitts, kitchen scissors, paper towels, condiments-salt, pepper, ketchup, sugar, 1 gallon of water, and bundle of firewood. WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS UPGRADE, IT'S STUFF MANY FORGET, SAVES YOU TIME AND LUGGING AND PROVIDES ALL THE BASICS FOR A COOKOUT EXCEPT THE FOOD! OPTION 2: Just the chairs, table, cooking grate and wood. $23 payable here. Total walk from parking 12 minutes. We supply a four wheeled gorilla cart to get your stuff to sites. (it gets you most of the way) SITE 3 - HOBBIT HOLLOW SITE. This site is Only for 3 or more people. You venture to the back woods thru a gorgeous forest of pine, oak and a few beeches on a curving trail which leads to hollow, right on a salt marsh with a great view. You have the choice of TWO tent sites. One near the fire pit looking out to the marsh, suitable for a small tent... and another is on a grassy knoll just fifty feet away, fine for a LARGE tent. There is running water at the fire pit area. As with the other two sites you can book this furnished, which we suggest. TOTAL WALK FROM PARKING 14 MINUTES. Take note: Local hobbits are friendly...no worries! Bathroom is only a 1--2 minute walk. For an additional $39 per Book, YOUR SITE COMES SUPPLIED WITH: a table, two chairs, cooking utensils (pot, saucepan, cast iron skillet, bbq tongs, spatulas, plates, bowls, cups, knives-forks-spoons-larger knife ( real ones! ) cooking grate for firepit, scraper, veg. peeler, 2 oven mitts, kitchen scissors, paper towels, condiments-salt, pepper, ketchup, sugar, 1 gallon of water, and bundle of firewood. WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS UPGRADE, IT'S STUFF MANY FORGET, SAVES YOU TIME AND LUGGING AND PROVIDES ALL THE BASICS FOR A COOKOUT EXCEPT THE FOOD! OPTION 2: Just the chairs, table, cooking grate and wood. $23 payable here. HERE IS A GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE CAMPGROUND WELCOME! A TRUE CAMPING EXPERIENCE AWAITS YOU, WITH BIG SPACIOUS SITES, GORGEOUS SCENERY AND SOLITUDE! PLEASE JOIN US FOR A MAINE ADVENTURE! Our welcoming campsites are called Maine WILDWALKWAYS. You will love these genuine, back to nature tent sites with so many creature comforts, all in an amazing, unspoiled setting! Read our story about the beautiful camp sites and the gorgeous scenery of the area, then choose from 10, highly scenic private sites in 3 connected sections. Please scroll thru the pictures above to get a visual of the actual tent sites. At WILDWALKWAYS, you are welcomed to a pristine, coastal forest in scenic, unspoiled Georgetown, Maine on the ocean. This quaint town is a gem of the Maine coast, near historic Bath, the enticing "mid coast" area. You won't find a more rewarding and affordable camping journey with so many natural "Maine" features. Your campsites are surrounded by a scenic lake, meandering rocky stream, active beaver pond, giant moss covered cliffs, majestic forest and more! All of this in a natural, untouched setting with pine needled trails ...the real Maine! You will discover Georgetown is the best of both worlds, as it has a northern, wilderness feel, yet is only 12 minutes to "civilization" in historic Bath, Maine. Even though 2019 was our first full year operating, we ranked a very high "7th BEST IN MAINE!" Campers were 100% enthusiastic and ALL sites were filled up often. IN 2020 OUR SECTION 2, RANKED 2ND PLACE IN MAINE. Thanks to all who stayed, making the year a booming success! Plus, we made many enhancements for an even better experience in 2021. WildWalkWays is a unique and really cool small campground with ten tent sites total, in 3 sections with different price points. Our sites are PRIVATE & SPACIOUS WITH GREAT VALUE. Unlike many campgrounds, with sites jammed together without privacy, ours are spaced well apart for MAXIMUM PRIVACY. It doesn't feel like a campground ...it feels like a park. Even when every site is booked, campers tell us you genuinely get a sense of owning the Maine forest. READ OUR POSITIVE REVIEWS. HAPPY CAMPERS RULE. HERE IS ONE REVIEW RANDOMLY PULLED BELOW "I had the best camping experience I’ve ever had at the Cedar Meadows campsite, it was completely pushed into the woods and it was the biggest campsite too, we hung our hammock up and listened to birds chirping, you can’t hear anything but wildlife. Having a toilet a short walk away was a huge plus. Mark was the best host we could ask for. He was extremely polite and helpful, he brought us an axe upon asking for one and even left out some wood for us and helped us to the site. The beautiful untouched land is amazing and the site is big enough for a nice walk by the small waterfall and big cliff, well worth a visit here. If you want an extremely quiet and secluded campground away from big crowds and small sites, come here." AT YOUR CAMPSITE A lot of thought went into designing the sites for solitude, fun and privacy. Every camper has told us they loved the genuine camping experience. The 10 tent sites are spread over many acres, in our beautiful coastal forest, only three miles to the ocean. You can hear the surf many nights. Each tent site is unique, with views, stream, fire pits, peacefulness, cliffs, mossy boulders, wildlife and more. For your comfort, we have spread a thick layer of soft pine needles over each tent area, which makes for an incredibly relaxing, comfortable sleep. All sites have marked trees to hang hammocks from for added enjoyment. At WildWalkWays, you are in the real Maine woods with trees, deer and nature all around you but you are not isolated. Rest assured, there are no poisonous snakes or crocodiles! You will wake to the fresh scents of the pine forest and aromatic bayberry in the air. I know that might sound corny but it's true. CREATURE COMFORTS There are quality, enclosed portable toilets a short walk from every site, with soft lighting near each one so you can find your way. They are cleaned and supplied daily. Each serves only 2 or 3 sites! Pine needled trails lead to these rest stations. They have lighting and a fan inside. Kinda cool and everyone loves them. EACH CAMPSITE has its own cold WATER faucet, right at the the tent site! A unique touch special to our sites. SAFETY Every occupied site has a few motion or solar lights to softly illuminate the area. In addition, the logging road used to access the sites has occasional solar or motion lights so you aren't totally in the dark, it is a very subtle effect. NOTE: We always have a few LED flashlights on hand if you forgot yours. BOOKING You can now check in as EARLY as 10 am for a small fee. (Inquire when booking). Regular book in time is 3 to 6 PM. COMMUNICATIONS We communicate with campers after you book, thanking you and giving directions or answering any questions you might have. When you get here, we provide FREE USE use of a four wheeled gorilla cart to get belongings to your site. Campers love it. You will get a handout on each site, basic information, local attractions and things to do. Please let us know of any requests before you get here and we will do our best to help you out. Feel free to ask anything or how we can help. LAKE There is a scenic lake on the property, bring your canoe! We offer Canoeing... Hiking... Birdwatching... Biking... Lake fishing and of course Camping. Rest by the lake, take in its beauty. Our area is known for truly amazing bird life, bald eagles soaring are a daily sight at the camp sites. PHOTOGRAPHY This is a TRUE photographers paradise! GO NO FURTHER, It's as simple as that! HIKE All sites have direct, easy access to our scenic logging road that borders a 150 acre nature reserve and its hiking trails. Dramatic rock bluffs and moss covered ledges are near the campsites. At WildwalkwaysTHREE, rock bluffs are part of both campsites! MEANDERING STREAM There is a meandering stream close to all sites, with several small waterfalls. MAINES BEST OCEAN SWIMMING NEARBY! Famous REID STATE PARK and it's huge sandy beach is in this town, just 10 minutes away. At Reid, there is also the famous shallow "lagoon", where water temps are higher, for a more comfortable swim. Small barbeque grills are there for free. (left side of Reid parking lot toward water) Reid is a jewel of the Maine parks and also a great hiking spot: check out the rock bluffs! Up the road a bit, is famous SEWELL POND for lake swimming and kayaking. It's a very scenic area. There is also a public boat launch nearby where you can launch your kayak into a protected ocean inlet with amazing views. PLANT LOVERS Our property is also the home of our famous rare plant nursery, Eastern Plant Specialties, filled with amazing wildflowers, giant rhododendrons and native plants ...a botanical paradise if plants are your thing! The largest collection of gorgeous rhododendrons anywhere in Maine lives here. Trails thru the gardens abound. We offer a guided tour during rhodo bloom season, May thru July, which can be reserved when you book. Yes, you can buy plants. FOOD The Georgetown general store is only two miles away on route 127 ...a nice walk or bike ride and it has a good wine selection. Bath, Maine finally has a good pizza place: Brunos Wood Fired Pizza on Front St. (ask for well done, they don't cook it enough) Here in town, there is a seasonal farm stand, farther down 127 south, offering local foods, wines etc. Also in Georgetown, don't miss Five Islands Seafood: This is a famous place, rated as one of the finest for lobster, with great take out food on the wharf. It is at the very end of 127 south. Feast on the best lobsters, burgers, chowders, etc. with picnic tables to enjoy your meal and one of the most amazing views in Maine! Don't forget, here at WildWalkWays, each campsite has a fire pit, with grates available for your own barbeque. Also, we will have camping basics available, in case you forget: condiments, extra water, firewood, charcoal, paper towels, soap, etc SPECIAL BREADS On most Fridays and Saturdays we will have some special breads from one of the finest Maine bakeries. Including the best Pain au levain I have ever had. Not as sourdoughy and incredibly crunchy and airy!!! I can eat the whole loaf plain! Limited supply. Reserve ahead. HISTORY The noted towns of Bath, Brunswick, Freeport and Wiscasset are only 12 to 25 minutes away. Bath is a scenic and easy town to stroll around in with shops, cafes and history. The Bath Maritime Museum is a cool place, fun for kids and adults. Next town over is Brunswick, a bit bigger, home to Bowdoin College and also a great walking town. Freeport is well known for shopping, home of L.L. Bean. Heading up the coast is Wiscasset, highly scenic, famous for Reds Eats, shopping and scenery. CENTRALLY LOCATED We are less than a days drive to so many Maine attractions. Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park are less than 3 hours away. The take off spots for wonderful Monhegan Island are just an hour away. Popham Fortess is a fascinating old stone fort, a half hour away. There's much more. AUTUMN COLOR Don't forget the famous Maine FALL FOLIAGE, this is a great place to see it -- peak fall foliage is Sept 20 thru Oct 15. Our campsites are usually booked well before fall season, take note. _____________________________________________ COME CAMP AT MAINE WILDWALKWAYS ...A GREAT BACK TO NATURE PLACE! ---------------------------------------------------

Tir na nOg Farm

5 sites · Lodging, Tents30 acres · Pownal, ME

Highland cattle graze at the forest's edge on our Celtic-heritage farm: a gentle retreat with options for farm-fresh breakfasts, woodland wandering, and campfires complete with Gaelic songs and bagpipes! Our 40-acre farm includes heritage-breed animals, honeybees, organic gardens, and over 30 acres of conservation woodlands. We favor scythes over tractors--your stay will be quiet and fume-free! Bradbury Mountain and several trail networks are nearby, along with rivers, ocean beaches, and an excellent locavore food scene. Since the early 1800s, this land on the edge of Chandler Brook has nourished bodies and spirits alike. Sloping pastures meet well-managed woodlands, making this a haven for both humans and wildlife. Since the 1980s, we have worked to restore the soil and make a "hand-built" life as farmers using pre-industrial organic methods. We keep bees, maintain pollinator habitats, tend an orchard of heirloom-variety fruit trees, and conserve rare heritage-breed animals, including Tamworth and Mangalitsa pigs and Scottish Highland Cattle. Our shared love for Celtic folk culture has blended naturally with our love of sustainable agriculture to create Tir na nOg Farm. Today, the work of restoration continues with the help of farm partners, family, friends, WWOOFers, and other volunteers. This land is already better than we found it, but we hope it will remain a gathering-ground of culture and agriculture, tradition and innovation for generations to come.

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Lovers Lane Yurt

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Gorham, ME

25 minutes to Portland, 25 minutes to Lake Sebago, 27 minutes to ocean beaches, 10 minutes from local swimming hole, and 3 minutes to Gorham village and USM you'll find this private, colorful and comfy retreat at the end of Lovers Lane, where the wildflowers bloom each year! There's room for frisbee and to enjoy the peacefulness of our yard. It's pretty quiet here in the oak forest, but we're close to so many great places - Portland, ocean, rivers, trails, and mountains. Gorham has become a mountain biking destination and we've got some great trails outside your door! We welcome all people here and strive to hold an inclusive and safe environment.

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Brown's Historical Farm House

1 site · Tent2 acres · Westbrook, ME

Located just outside of Portland Maine, in the city of Westbrook. Our property is about 2 acres with another 6 acres behind it. Highland lake is a half mile away with a carry in boat launch for kayaks, canoes and paddle boards. There are many hiking trails less than a half a mile away including a new land to sea trail. Local beaches are about 20 minutes to a half hour away. The city of Portland is 15 minutes away and the White mountains and the Appalachian trail in Maine is anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half away. Lots of lake streams and fun things to do in the area

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TreeYurt

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Cumberland, ME

It started years ago my sister and I stayed in a yurt at a campground in Oregon. That was it. I was hooked so I got one. There is something magical about staying in a round structure in the trees. My love of nature and comfort drove me to create this special place to be able to share it with others. My TreeYurt is a platform built high in the trees so it essentially like a treehouse but with a yurt instead. It is located in the back part of my property surrounded by woods. In the spring there is a small stream running nearby and soon to come a bridge over to the fairy village. The land is somewhat sloped yet comfortable. There are apple orchards nearby and many hiking trails a short distance away as well as Portland a mere 15 minutes. The kitchenette has a small fridge a coffee maker a cook top with two burners pots pans utensils and kitchen towels as well a propane grill outside. There is a wood stove for heating in the winter as well as a monitor heater that makes it very cozy for chilly nights. The yurt is insulated so it is a great year round glamping adventure. I provide fire wood for the wood stove inside but the camp fire wood for the outdoor fire pit is $5 per bundle. The outhouse has a dry flush toilet and instructions at located in the yurt and out house. There is no running water although recently added an outdoor sink for the warmer months is available for use for dishwashing and a bit of cleaning up. I provide gallons of drinking water and dishwashing water for the colder months inside the yurt with dish tubs sponges and soap.

Dog-friendly getaways

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Hidden Valley Nature Center

8 sites · Lodging, Tents1000 acres · Newcastle, ME

HIDDEN VALLEY NATURE CENTER IS 1,000 ACRES OF PROTECTED LAND IN JEFFERSON, MAINE - RICH WITH A VARIETY OF HABITAT AND TERRAIN INCLUDING OVER A MILE OF SHORE FRONT ON LITTLE DYER POND. Miles of multi-use trails great for hiking and biking, rolled and groomed XC ski trails, and several rustic huts and tent sites are waiting for you. Hidden Valley Nature Center (HVNC) is your forest. HVNC is part of Midcoast Conservancy, and a portion of the booking fees goes to support our mission to protect and restore vital lands and waters on a scale that matters. Midcoast Conservancy members receive a 40% discount. Not a member? Visit the Midcoast Conservancy website and join through the "donate" button at the top right of the home page. Your membership confirmation email will include your discount code. Thank you!

Insulated Tiny Cabin

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Freeport, ME

We have an 8X8 cabin available in a small grove on the edge of our homestead/medicinal herb farm. The cabin has a full size bed (bring your own pillows and bedding) with some floor space for a small cot or sleeping pad. The space allows for two adults and two small children, anymore than that would be very tight. The cabin is insulated so the road traffic isn’t bad but it is noticeable at certain hours when the window is open. There is a large parking area with about a 100 yard walk across a lawn and then another 100 yard walk through an uneven wooded trail to the cabin. We have two composting toilet outhouses available for guests use that we take care of on a daily basis.Inside of our large greenhouse, there is a hot water outdoor semi-private shower, only biodegradable soap that we provide can be used. There is also a kitchen and seating area in the greenhouse with a propane grill, toaster oven, microwave and electric kettle and small coffee maker/French press. The greenhouse is a communal space that our family uses as a wood shop and greenhouse space so while the kitchen and shower area are kept clean and clear for guests, the rest of the greenhouse is a working space that can be in various states depending on what projects we have going on. Dogs are allowed but they need to be leashed due to our free ranging ducks and the closeness of the road. We can occasionally provide eggs and some veggies and herbs for tea for a small fee if it’s arranged in advance.We provide a fire pit and kindling but ask that you bring your own fire wood that has been purchased in the area so as not to bring in any new pests.The parking area is large enough if you want to bring a boat or trailer.Our spot is 3 miles from downtown Freeport and is located near a commuter road so it’s easy access to many spots.Freeport is a coastal town with two state parks, lots of great diverse trails which are well maintained and lots of restaurants/breweries. We are a short drive from Portland, Brunswick and Bath which both have lots of parks and restaurants. Lisbon falls and new Glouster also have great trails and restaurants that are amazing yet less crowded than Portland. We are a short drive from family destinations like the desert of Maine in Freeport, Maine wildlife park in grey and the old orchard boardwalk. We are about 40 min from popham beach to the north and 40 min to crescent beach, old orchard beach and Scarborough beach to the south.As hosts, we are around if you need us but happy to give as much space and privacy as you would like. If we are out working in the fields or hanging out with our kids, we are happy to give tours or talk about any of the gardens or plants that catch your interest. This is a working farm so walking around must be at your own risk, there are bees and ticks and some tripping hazards to be mindful of.We have rented this cabin through Air b-n-b for several years. We have switched to Hipcamp as it is more aligned with our values. You can find our listing there (calendar blocked off) with lots of reviews.Learn more about this land:We have an 8X8 cabin available in a small grove on the edge of our homestead/medicinal herb farm. The cabin has a full size bed (bring your own pillows and bedding) with some floor space for a small cot or sleeping pad. The space allows for two adults and two small children, anymore than that would be very tight. The cabin is insulated so the road traffic isn’t bad but it is noticeable at certain hours when the window is open. There is a large parking area with about a 100 yard walk across a lawn and then another 100 yard walk through an uneven wooded trail to the cabin. We have two composting toilet outhouses available for guests use that we take care of on a daily basis.Inside of our large greenhouse, there is a hot water outdoor semi-private shower, only biodegradable soap that we provide can be used. There is also a kitchen and seating area in the greenhouse with a propane grill, toaster oven, microwave and electric kettle and small coffee maker/French press. The greenhouse is a communal space that our family uses as a wood shop and greenhouse space so while the kitchen and shower area are kept clean and clear for guests, the rest of the greenhouse is a working space that can be in various states depending on what projects we have going on. Dogs are allowed but they need to be leashed due to our free ranging ducks and the closeness of the road. We can occasionally provide eggs and some veggies and herbs for tea for a small fee if it’s arranged in advance. We provide a fire pit and kindling but ask that you bring your own fire wood that has been purchased in the area so as not to bring in any new pests.The parking area is large enough if you want to bring a boat or trailer.Our spot is 3 miles from downtown Freeport and is located near a commuter road so it’s easy access to many spots.Freeport is a coastal town with two state parks, lots of great diverse trails which are well maintained and lots of restaurants/breweries. We are a short drive from Portland, Brunswick and Bath which both have lots of parks and restaurants. Lisbon falls and new Glouster also have great trails and restaurants that are amazing yet less crowded than Portland. We are a short drive from family destinations like the desert of Maine in Freeport, Maine wildlife park in grey and the old orchard boardwalk. We are about 40 min from popham beach to the north and 40 min to crescent beach, old orchard beach and Scarborough beach to the south.As hosts, we are around if you need us but happy to give as much space and privacy as you would like. If we are out working in the fields or hanging out with our kids, we are happy to give tours or talk about any of the gardens or plants that catch your interest. This is a working farm so walking around must be at your own risk, there are bees and ticks and some tripping hazards to be mindful of.We have rented this cabin through Air b-n-b for several years. We have switched to Hipcamp as it is more aligned with our values. You can find our listing there (calendar blocked off) with lots of reviews.

The Harraseeket Campsite

1 site · RV2 acres · Freeport, ME

Learn more about this land: Private 1.5 acre field off of Staples Point Road, 3 miles from downtown Freeport, 1 mile to Winslow Park. Field is surrounded mostly by forrest, only non-drinking water provided from the garden hose at the entrance to the field. Whatever you bring in, you take out; garbage, human waste, etc. There is a camp fire with benches, plenty of fire wood and a luggable loo if needed.

Center Pond Farm

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Phippsburg, ME

Center Pond Farm is a 5 acre organic vegetable farm on the banks of Center pond in beautiful Phippsburg Maine. Phippsburg is home to many sandy beaches, Popham Beach State Park, and many public lands with trails to explore.

A safe place to stay on the way

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Topsham, ME

Lovely forest behind our home, available to travelers for tenting or RV. A safe place to stay as you're stopping through. Exactly 4.8 miles from the 295 off-ramp and Route 1. A private wooded lot on a beautiful road with farms and woodland cradled by the Cathance and Muddy Rivers which flow onward to Merrymeeting Bay, the Kennebec, and the ocean beyond. Some road noise from Middlesex road during commuting times that quiets down for sleeping. Topsham is lovely and I'm grateful to live here and share this space with travelers! Note that the service fee goes to Hipcamp and I wish I could remove it. Learn more about this land: Available to travelers for tenting or RV. A safe place to stay as you're stopping through. Total property size is 3.5 acres. Midcoast Maine has an endless bounty of treasures for visitors in all seasons. Hiking, biking, boating, history, art, swimming, food, and cultural events with beautiful nature surrounding it all. The Tarbox Preserve, a Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust property with hiking and skiing, is 2 lots up the road. Head of Tide park with a small waterfall is 2.2 miles to the west. Grocery: Our towns (Topsham and Brunswick) have several grocery stores: Hannaford, Shaw's, Walmart/Target grocery, and a wonderful natural foods store Morning Glory Natural Foods. We have many farm stands with organic and locally grown produce closely nearby - ask us to help you locate them! Food: Brunswick is restaurant and brewery heaven! Amazing beers, wood fired pizza, sushi, Thai, Vietnamese, Greek, German, Colombian street food, Filipino, deli, Fusion and more! Also check out Reny's - A Maine Adventure for your needed supplies. Water and respite available here for a day or two, if this area is your destination or if you're on the road toward an adventure. A single private site. We are not a campground, this is the back part of our land that we hope to offer as respite and safety for travelers looking for this kind of place to stay. We give absolute privacy to campers in the hours 4pm-11am. Please consider that we might be on the lower property during the middle of the day: 11am-4pm, which matches most of our visitors needs as they are using the property as an evening and morning stopover. Please visit the Maine Forest Service Fire Danger Report if you are considering requesting a campfire. Fires are not allowed when the fire danger is High through Extreme. We will talk about fire safety if the danger level is Moderate. Thanks for being safe! https://www.maine.gov/dacf/mfs/wildfire_danger_report/index.html

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Bradbury Mountain State Park

Freeport, Maine

86%

(8)

Sebago Lake State Park

Naples, Maine

Swans Falls Campground

Fryeburg, Maine

Camping near Portland guide

Overview

Cities called Portland crop up all over the United States, but no Portland does camping quite like Maine’s. From downtown to greater Portland, campsites offer a window into New England’s stunning scenery and communal culture. Embrace all things Maine with a tranquil beach campsite by the Atlantic Ocean, or, if you’re looking for a family-friendly or pet-friendly getaway, opt for an RV site with access to mini-golf and a playground. Just outside the city, you can explore Freeport’s Desert of Maine, though no matter where you stay, you’re guaranteed some of the state’s best camping.

Where to go

South of the City

Slowly make your way into Portland, and stop—and spend the night—just south of the city. Check into a beachfront rental in York County’s Kennebunkport or Old Orchard Beach, and enjoy views of the Saco Bay. Or, skip to Scarborough, where you’ll find no shortage of RV parks and glamping sites. Scarborough Beach State Park is a must-stop, especially for swimmers.

Casco Bay

If you’d rather camp north of Portland, you don’t have to go far for views. Rent a campsite in Casco Bay, where towering lighthouses and historic ships abound. Fishermen and birdwatchers will particularly enjoy the area’s robust wildlife, though if you want an ultra-adventurous camping trip, explore Chebeague Island. You’ll never tire of looking out at the clear Maine waters from your island tent site.

Sebago Lake

As one of Maine’s largest lakes, Sebago Lake proves that beachfront camping isn’t limited to the ocean. Check into a family campground and try kayaking around the lake. Then, unwind at your RV resort with full hookups and a fire pit. If you prefer biking, consider booking a campsite with trailhead access; Sebago Lake State Park is as picturesque as it is vast.

When to go

Maine is known for its cold waters year-round, so swimming—even in the summer—isn’t a given. Activities, however, are always guaranteed, so come between June and August to enjoy Portland at its most vibrant. Think: beachfront lobster shacks, outdoor concerts, and evenings spent barbecuing. Of course, crowds tend to have the same idea, so if you can handle chillier weather, book a campsite in the shoulder seasons. Campers will find a much quieter Portland—one best enjoyed from a campsite with wifi and extra blankets.