Maine Campsites You Have to Visit
- Victoria Van Buskirk
- May 28
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 23
Maine feels like a whisper. Or maybe a hug from a tree. I don’t know. It’s soft but stubborn. Quiet, but not boring. It definitely was giving Cozy Grove vibes.
I photograph listings for Hipcamp—basically a website that connects nature lovers with campsites, cabins, yurts, barns, treehouses, you name it. It’s like Airbnb’s cooler, dirtier, outdoorsy cousin. Most of the places I shoot are way off the beaten path, which is exactly how I like it. The rest are situated near the friendliest hosts who almost always have a story to tell, trade to teach, or animals to pet.
So this isn’t a review post or a “top 10.” These are just a few of my favorite spots I’ve photographed for Hipcamp up in Maine. Think: misty mornings. A goat named Pretzel. That one compost toilet that felt like it might fall over if the wind picked up. You get the picture. I added in some at the end that I haven't visit yet but are definitely on my Maine bucketlist.
The following sites stuck with me. They made me pause. Or laugh. Or want to stay just a little longer than I was supposed to. Let’s start with the one that had its own island in the middle of a lake.
This A-frame rental in Holden, Maine is one of my favorite Hipcamps I visited last summer. The mini cabin was so cute inside and perfect for my friend Carly & I. Outside there was a cooking station which made prepping dinner a dream and an outdoor shower/toilet covered from the elements (another lovely luxury.)
The best part is - your A-frame is right on the edge of a beautiful lake and you have access to a pair of kayaks that - get this - take you out to a private island with an eagles nest. Yes all of what I just said is true and its as magical as it sounds.
This absolute gem is on the beautiful Cranberry Isles in Hancock, Maine. Gary's property is hands down the most unique experience I've had yet at a Hipcamp. To start, the camp is on an island that you need to book a ferry to get to (I may or may not have read the schedule wrong once along the trip.) Next, Gary provides a golf cart to help you and your gang get to the site or you can hike the mile to your site. The true magic happens when you get to Gary's site - you're greeted by an amazingly eccentric host and, if you're lucky, a roaring bonfire.
The island is a choose your own adventure kind of place but we chose to spend our evening raving with Gary by the fire after a little tour around the island and it's beaches. 10/10 experience.
My jaw actually dropped when I saw the view at this tiny cabin. Unplanned, we arrived at golden hour and the light illuminated the salt marsh in the most beautiful way. I wasted no time getting photos of this listing. I would absolutely spend some time here editing and reconnecting.
A cute surprise is the goats that will travel down the fence with you as you travel to your site. I loved them, lol.
Alright so this listing is for those who need a nice reset after traveling on the road for awhile. It has access to laundry and a small break room. If you're trying to hide from some nasty weather, need to do your laundry, or want to work in a cozy setting that isn't your rig - this one is for you.
This is an RV site but definitely worth mentioning to those with an RV or larger rig. The view was unbelievable, especially as sunrise. I spent the morning of Fourth of July there before I made a 10 hour trip home. The hosts were so sweet and treated me to some banana bread and coffee in the morning before they headed out for a day in Bar Harbor. It was so so sweet and hella yummy.
I looooooved this cabin. The sliding barn doors (complete with bug screens) were such a treat. I stayed there during a rain storm so I didn't get to hang outside much but the open doors let me listen to the rain while I spent time inside editing. I was really feeling like the main character of a travel novel during a soul searching journey (specific I know.)
This A-Frame in Harrison, Maine was a great stop on my route through the state. The cabin was a nice break from sleeping in the truck, especially in the hot temperatures of July. The parking spot is small, steep, and right off the road so keep that in mind when planning. There is a lake right around the bend with gorgeous sunset views.
Here are a few campsites in Maine that haven't gotten the chance to visit yet but definitely want to soon!
This site looks like the ultimate creative soul's paradise. The mountain views, canoe, and waterfront site are the perfect combo.
I am obsessed with the oceanfront A-Frame. This listing is definitely on the top of my list!
The location, amenities, and camping options at this campground make it a no brainer.
This site is in an amazing location in two ways. Its proximity to Bar Harbor and Acadia is awesome. Plus, it's situated in a serene private wooded area.
I am all about a waterfront site and a bathroom included.
Comments