The Best State Park Campgrounds in Maine
Maine is home to thirteen Maine State Park campgrounds, all of which offer unique activities for outdoor enthusiasts. From the oceanfront Cobscook Bay to the densely forested Mt. Blue—each park provides opportunities for hiking, nature watching, and relaxing. Equipped with amenities like picnic areas, boat launches, and beaches, the Maine State Park campgrounds are ready to host your next vacation.
In this blog post, I will be sharing all the nitty gritty details about what I consider to be the best Maine State Park Campgrounds—how to make a reservation, campground amenities, the best time of year to visit, nearby activities, insider tips, and more!
How to Make a Reservation at Maine State Park Campgrounds
Research
Each Maine State Park Campground is unique, so you’ll need to decide which campground you want to camp at before making a reservation. Click here to learn more about each Maine State Park, or use the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands search tool to find a park based on location, amenities, or activities.
Prepare
Prepare for making a reservation by collecting some information. What dates are you hoping to visit? How long will you be staying? Will you be camping in a tent or RV? Do you need a site with electricity hookups or water? Do you have a site preference? Having this information decided ahead of time will make the reservation process much smoother.
Make Reservation
Once you have decided which Maine State Park you want to visit and when, it’s time to make a reservation! Maine State Park campground reservations usually open the first week in February. Click here for up-to-date information regarding reservation dates. Reservations can be made online, via phone (800-332-1501 for Maine residents or 207-624-9950 for non-Maine residents), or by mail using the address below. If you are camping with more than six people, you will need to book a group campsite by calling the State Park directly.
DACF, Bureau of Parks and Lands
ATTN: Campground Reservations
22 SHS, 18 Elkins Lane
Augusta, ME 04333
Reservation Fees
There are fees to reserve campsites at Maine State Parks. Click here for the most up-to-date fee information, as it can change from year to year. Maine residents usually get lower rates at the Maine State Park campgrounds.
The Best Maine State Park Campgrounds
Lily Bay State Park (425 Lily Bay Road, Beaver Cove, ME 04441)
Located along the scenic shores of Moosehead Lake, Lily Bay State Park campground offers tranquility like no other. Their waterfront campsites provide fantastic views of the lake and sunsets. The campground offers both tent and RV campsite options and provides access to amenities such as restrooms, showers, a large beach, tailored boat launch, and several walking trails. It’s a great family-friendly campground that is guaranteed to make memories that will last a lifetime. Click here to learn more about the park.
Best Nearby Hikes
Mount Kineo: a moderate hike that provides stunning 360-degree views of Moosehead Lake
Big Spencer Mountain: a challenging hike that provides great views of the Maine highlands
Number 4 Mountain: a densely forested hike with fire tower views of Moosehead Lake and surrounding mountains
Best Nearby Restaurants
Kelly’s Landing: a waterfront restaurant that offers a full bar and dining room with lake views
Rockwood Bar and Grill: a local eatery with good food and a nice size patio
Jamieson’s Pizza: a takeout restaurant with great pizza and amazing sandwiches
Mt. Blue State Park (299 Center Hill Road, Weld, ME 04285)
Webb Lake provides campers at Mt. Blue State Park Campground with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including boating, fishing, picnicking, swimming, and nature watching. The sandy beach, waterfront playground, and shaded picnic area are conveniently located next to a restroom facilities and changing rooms. And the private campsites are only a short walk away, perfect for families. Click here to learn more about the park.
Best Nearby Hikes
Mt. Blue: a strenuous hike that leads to a scenic observation tower
Tumbledown: a challenging hike that rewards hikers with a beautiful alpine pond for cooling off and beautiful views
Bald Mountain: a short, steep hike that provides great views of Tumbledown and other surrounding mountains and lakes
Best Nearby Restaurants
Kawanhee Inn: a delightful dining experience in a rustic setting with views of Webb Lake
Calzolaio Pasta Co: Italian and American eats in a cozy building that hugs the river
Cobscook Bay State Park (40 South Edmunds Road, Edmunds Township, ME 04628)
Cobscook Bay State Park Campground offers a unique camping experience along the beautiful shores of Cobscook Bay. The campground has various campsites, including quiet areas for tents and full-service spots for RVs. Campers can enjoy views of the bay, explore tidal pools, and spot wildlife, making it perfect for nature lovers. Amenities include restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. The park also has hiking trails, a playground, and ample green space for a family game of kickball. Click here to learn more about the park.
Best Nearby Hikes
Quoddy Head State Park: renowned for its stunning coastal views, the park features rugged cliffs, scenic hiking trails, and the iconic West Quoddy Head Lighthouse
Shackford Head State Park: scenic, rugged hiking trails await visitors in this quiet state park
Cutler Coast Public Lands: home to rugged cliffs and beautiful, rocky beaches along the Bold Coast
Best Nearby Restaurants
Sue’s Cobscook Bay Cafe: homemade food with a cozy, local atmosphere
Coastal Subs: a local sandwich shop known for their steak and cheese and dagwoods
Warren Island State Park (1202 Warrens Island, Islesboro, Maine 04848)
Only accessible by boat, Warren Island State Park encompasses approximately 40 acres of quiet trails, sandy beaches, and diverse wildlife. The park features large, private campsites that provide a laid back atmosphere for campers. With its stunning views and tranquil surroundings, Warren Island State Park is an ideal location for kayaking, swimming, and picnicking, making it a popular destination for both day visitors and campers seeking to immerse themselves in the Maine wilderness. Click here to learn more about the park.
Best Nearby Hikes
Mount Megunticook: moderate climb that provides stunning views of the ocean and downtown Camden
Maiden Cliff: a steady hike through a lush forest that rewards hikers with dramatic views of Megunticook Lake and surrounding mountains
Best Nearby Restaurants
Bluewater Bakery: local Islesboro bakery serving breakfast, lunch, and coffee
McLaughlin’s Lobster Shack: local seafood served fresh with ocean views
Dot’s Market: farm-to-table prepared foods, wine, and delicious baked goods
Insider Tips
Best time to visit: May/September for fishing, July/August for swimming and hiking
If you want to reserve a waterfront site during peak season (June-August) you’ll need to make a reservation the first day reservations open for the season
Pets are allowed at most Maine State Park Campgrounds (except for Sebago Lake State Park), but they are typically NOT allowed on the beaches from May 1st to September 30th
Most State Park campgrounds have ice and wood for sale at the gatehouse
Leave no Trace
When it comes to enjoying time outdoors, remember the golden rule: Leave No Trace. It’s as simple as picking up after yourself, staying on the trails, and leaving nature just as beautiful as you found it. By practicing Leave No Trace, you help preserve the magic of Maine for future adventurers to enjoy, so everyone can keep enjoying the same beautiful, wild world we love.
Interested in more Maine camping information and tips? You can find them all here.
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With love,
My Maine
