Best Camping in and near Damariscotta Lake State Park

Discover the serene beauty of Damariscotta Lake State Park.

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Community favorites near Damariscotta Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Damariscotta Lake State Park

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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. PLEASE NOTE: ALL of the cabins and campsites are WALK-IN ONLY. No pop-up campers or vehicles of any kind are permitted within the preserve or in the parking lot. 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!

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(1004)

Slippery Rock Trails LLC

6 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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Tucker N.’s land

2 sites · Lodging, Tents105 acres · Alna, ME

Our cabin is an off grid post and beam structure that we built 8 years ago. It's has a full kitchen, wood stove, and screened porch. There are jugs provided for doing dishes etc and a large (150 gallon) tank outside for refills. There are a generous supply of lanterns (both battery and inflatable solar) flashlights and string lights for lighting. This is a small two story timber frame cabin off grid and secluded deep in the woods. It has a separate outhouse as well as shower stall to use the solar shower bags in. 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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(1744)

Four Acre Woods Campground

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Deer Isle, ME

A beautiful island campground thickly forested with spruce, fir, and birch, Four Acre Woods was created over 60 years ago on Sunshine Island, Maine. Under the name Sunshine Campground, it hosted people from all over the world and delivered the spirit and essence of this ancient, abundant land that so many ancestors had roamed and celebrated before. It was open to the public through to the 90s, but then sat alone for 15 years, waiting for someone to revive it and bring it back to the world. Then one day, Caleb and Wolf met on a bus, heading south from Down East Maine, where they instantly connected and joined forces. They worked together redressing a home in Stonington for visitors to experience and became brothers while doing so. Eventually, the presence and opportunity of the campground caught their attention and after working out the technicalities, they worked together to bring this beautiful land and campground back to the people under its new life and name, Four Acre Woods. After opening on July 1st 2020, the land is finally back to sharing all of her beauty and spirit with the people. So, Welcome Home. Sincerely, - Four Acre Woods Caretakers

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Camp Nepenthe

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · East Boothbay, ME

A gracefully designed switchback driveway leads you to a cleared level landing. The spot is elevated nestled in among hardwood trees where you can pitch a tent or park a self-contained RV (No larger than 24'). Due to the switchback design of the driveway, a combination car/truck and towed camper configuration will not work. East Boothbay is quiet, relaxing, and beautiful. Be sure to stop by East Boothbay General Store for delicious house made sandwiches, salads, pizza, a selection of beers and wine; eat in on the small porch or take away for a picnic. Take a short walk along the narrow quiet road to the ocean where waves are crashing on the rocks. Don't miss the gorgeous sunsets-simply spectacular. Or just relax at the site and enjoy the beauty of the nature that surrounds you. It's a short 10 minute drive to Boothbay Harbor for whale and puffin watches, great restaurants, sunset and reggae cruises, and sailing trips. The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is another must see-as it is New England's largest botanical garden.

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Tir na nOg Farm

6 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 woodland wandering, farm-fresh breakfasts (weekdays only, must be requested one week in advance), and campfires complete with traditional Gaelic music! Our 40-acre farm includes heritage-breed animals, 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 maintain pollinator habitats, tend an orchard of heirloom-variety fruit trees, and conserve rare heritage-breed animals, including Tamworth 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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(70)

Lake Auburn Community Forest

5 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · ME

Nestled against 200 acres of protected watershed lands we are located directly on the original Spring Road from the 1800s. A short walk or bike southwest to the Lake Auburn Community Center and northeast to Lake Auburn's W.Spring Rd trails. Beautiful sunrises down by the water and catch the sun setting from your Hipcamp:) Learn more about this land: Miles of pedestrian trails nestled in the 300 year old West Auburn (Minot) Farm pastures and wooded forests. 50/30/20/15 amp services, water, sewer drains or dump station or Porta potty depending on which site you select. Firewood, dump station, rubbish services, internet, mail delivery, cable available for additional venmo/PPal fees.

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(79)

The Lonely Loon

1 site · Tent2 acres · Belfast, ME

Learn more about this land: I live on a private lake...stunning nature...listen to owls loons and nature, quiet secluded, peaceful, rustic surrounded by 200 hundred acres...2 kayaks available for use ..free firewood, 420 friendly ..if you are looking for a private place to camp and see untouched Maine..this is it....I’m 10 minutes to beautiful Belfast Maine Penobscot bay......Stunning Camden Maine near by...lots of walking and biking trails nearby...City point nearby.... I HAVE A CARRY IN CARRY OUT POLICY…..Thank you for cleaning the camp before leaving …And thank you for booking the Lonely Loon……Ginger Cazan ….……….Please be aware….I have a 3 day cancellation policy…giving you plenty of time to cancel your stay and for me to book another camper…Im so sorry but NO ReFunds after 3 days ……Thank you!

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(349)

Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss

12 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Penobscot, ME

Come explore real Maine away from the crowds of Mount Desert Island/Acadia National Park/Bar Harbor at our sites at Wildberry Farm (Penobscot), Blueberry Fields Forever (Blue Hill) or Quiet Cove (Stonington)! Ask the host for tons of local recommendations, including best places to swim, hike, eat, or even have a super local experience and hop the Mail Boat out to Isle au Haut (out of Stonington Harbor 30+min drive) and explore the beautiful trails and beaches of an even more remote island off the Maine coast!

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(47)

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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Woodland hide-away, basic

1 site · Tent2 acres · Bristol, ME

Wherever we go people either say "I love Maine!" or "I've always wanted to go to Maine!" This naturally wooded lot with a platform for your tent or table, is a perfect place to camp or park your RV and enjoy the beauty of Mid-Coast Maine. (Look for the lobster bouy on the tree and the lobster trap on the ground as you circle the street turn around.) It is located in the middle of the Pemaquid Peninsula, home to Maine's most famous lighthouse: it’s on the U.S. quarter. This is a great spot from which to explore beaches (8 miles), canoeing and kayaking (2 miles), state and national parks, and hiking trails (8 miles). There are great restaurants, shops, summer theater, art studios and antique markets in nearby Damariscotta and all along the Maine coast. Throughout the summer there are lobster fests, music fests, fairs and even a Pumpkin Regata (in Oct) when the fall foliage is at its peak. No camp fires as water source is 1.5 miles at town spring tap. Public Port-a-potty at swimming hole 1.4 mi. RV’s $30 per night. Tent and car campers $15 per night. For stays of a week or more we provide trash pick up. For stays of 10 days or more, ask about a discount. Continue to the end of Ledgewood and circle the loop. You will see the lobster buoy and trap indicating the driveway to the tent platform

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Spectacle Island, Damariscotta Lake

1 site · Tent1 acre · Newcastle, ME

The sister islands, shaped like a pair of spectacles as their name suggests, offer opportunities for swimming, blueberry picking, camping, and general exploration. Although the islands make up a small portion of the 1000+ acres protected by Midcoast Conservancy in the Damariscotta Lake Watershed, they are among the most popular. The islands have long been a gathering spot for local families to swim. The islands were donated to Midcoast Conservancy in 2000 and are now forever protected. When you reserve your spot on Spectacle Island, know that it comes with a healthy dose of day use during peak summer weekends.

The best camping near Damariscotta Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

Nestled in the heart of midcoast Maine, Damariscotta Lake State Park offers a tranquil escape with its sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can bask in the sun, enjoy a refreshing swim, or indulge in a leisurely picnic amid the park's scenic surroundings. With its easy accessibility from Augusta, this beloved day-use park is a perfect spot for families and friends to gather and create lasting memories.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Damariscotta Lake State Park is during the warm summer months when the park's beach and waters can be fully enjoyed. Arrive early to secure a spot, as parking is limited and the area is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Off-season visits offer a quieter experience, though some amenities may be unavailable.

Know before you go

Arrive early to ensure parking availability, as spaces fill up quickly on peak summer days.
Bring sunscreen and insect repellent to enhance your comfort during your visit.
Check local weather forecasts before planning your trip, as conditions can change rapidly.
Remember to pack out all trash to keep the park pristine for all visitors.
Accessibility is a priority, but it's wise to contact park staff for the latest information on available facilities.