Ranch camping in Maine with wildlife watching

With rocky shores, sandy beaches, and forested mountains, Vacationland is made for campers.

91% (458 reviews)

United States
—
Maine

91% (458 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Maine

Under $50

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 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.

Trails Woodland Camps

1 site · Tent55 acres · Ellsworth, ME

Explore 55 acres of pristine forest boasting winding walking trails, a babbling stream, and a tranquil pond. Additionally, embrace the winter wonderland with a dedicated snowmobile trail for seasonal sports enthusiasts. The area teems with abundant wildlife, providing ample opportunities for observation and photography. Presently, we provide forest campsites, with plans to introduce cabins in the near future. If you seek secluded campsites immersed in a wild, natural environment, yet conveniently located within easy driving distance of other recreational activities, look no further – we offer precisely what you desire. Choose from our selection of 10 tent campsites, ideal for family fun and adventure, complete with private trails for exploration. Unlike State Parks, we encourage families to forage for firewood and practice campfire skills, with the option to purchase camp wood onsite, along with a variety of other enjoyable items and necessities.

Wolves and Sounds of the Night

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Trenton, ME

Important: When you submit a request be sure to check your hipcamp messages for questions and the acceptance confirmation info. Submitting a request does not finalize or guarantee a reservation, Which requires approval from the property. Before you make a reservation read the description of each site, there are 5 different names of the choices with different options. . Read all of the info, when you submit your request please include/verify the following info: Is everyone in your group at least 21?/No kids or pets traveling with you.? What sort or camping unit.? Tent/RoofTent/RV/Hammock/Trailer./Van./ Box Truck or creative bus conversion/Cowboy Camper…? Just tell us ! Your reservation request will not be accepted until we have those responses so including that with your reservation request is what we need to know. Several of us live/work/answer messages here. Clarity with your request is necessary. At check out look at the “extras” section to include any pre purchases or rentals. For those flying in or wanting to travel light, you can select “The Works” which includes a tent, bedding , firewood , towels ,chairs, a cooler and numerous camping necessities including coffee and cups. Great for spontaneous adventures and we will have the tent site ready for you to just show up. Easy! Our camping section is located on the property of Kisma Preserve. Home to abundant local wildlife and , resident animals , Including domestic and non domestic and our favorite, Wolves. . Most of the staff live here full time all year. The sounds of the night are magical. Unleash your imagination and camp here away from the crowds that exist within the local Acadia National Park area which begins about 5 minutes away at Thompson’s Island and the bridge to Mt Desert Island. We are close to basic necessities, and a step away from the masses. We do educational tours daily and if interested these tours are arranged by reservation too. We may allow camping in Winter months but if it is between November and May it is very important to call and find out the accessibility as weather impacts everything. The shower will likely be unavailable in freezing months and some sites are closed. CALL and speak with a staff member before reserving. Self contained Adventure Vans and tent campers with Winter Gear and Rooftop Tents can be accommodated. Or If you want to have a solid roof , screens and a fabulous view ask about reserving our Cadillac Mountain View Loft or if the idea of being naked under the stars is appealing opt for our Raw and Rough site.! Pulling in late, and leaving early for a typical Sunrise reservation.? We can also accommodate that if we know that is all you want. Traveling with your horse.? Talk to us about an Equine site. The Biker’s Bunkhouse is ideal for motorcycle travelers as it shelters both the guest and the Bike/s. Always call, we can answer all questions to get you into the right site for your style of adventuring. With each listing be sure to read all the information. If you are interested in a spontaneous camping adventure, if your luggage got lost or if you just don’t want to deal with transporting camping gear we have a variety of rental equipment. Last minute reservation requests may not work via the reservation site but we may very likely have a space. Any questions, call two zero seven six six seven three two four four, calling is the only way to be certain we receive your communications.

Camden Hills Equine Inn

2 sites · RVs11 acres · Lincolnville, ME

My Equine Inn was established in 2012 to welcome fellow horse enthusiasts and trail riders to enjoy the trails accessible from my property. While we do not offer rentals, we do offer guided trail rides to those bringing their own horse. Hip Camp seems to be a perfect way to expand! We're looking forward to welcoming campers who would love to have the opportunity to spend a bit of time getting to know our equine companions. Sorry, strictly BYOH (bring your own horse) for trail riding options. Very happy to help you plan your itinerary while you're here!

Dog-friendly getaways

Bravenit Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Lyman, ME

The camp sits on 50 acres of trails, forests, fields, and more. This special spot is tucked away in southern Maine, and only 25 minutes from Interstate 95. "Rustic" is a good word to describe Bravenit Camp, but it's so much more! Check out the horse barns, the pond, the stream, try fishing in the river (though it is hard to find), or write a poem in the Writers Cottage.

Camden Hills Equine Inn

2 sites · RVs11 acres · Lincolnville, ME

My Equine Inn was established in 2012 to welcome fellow horse enthusiasts and trail riders to enjoy the trails accessible from my property. While we do not offer rentals, we do offer guided trail rides to those bringing their own horse. Hip Camp seems to be a perfect way to expand! We're looking forward to welcoming campers who would love to have the opportunity to spend a bit of time getting to know our equine companions. Sorry, strictly BYOH (bring your own horse) for trail riding options. Very happy to help you plan your itinerary while you're here!

ShadowLands Ranch

5 sites · Lodging, Tents70 acres · Lee, ME

Tranquil 70 acre horse ranch retreat in the North Maine woods. Shadowlands Ranch boasts green pastures, lush forest, walking trails, primitive camping, horseback rides, diverse nature and wildlife, and much more. The property is home to a small herd of horses made up of rescues, competition horses and wild mustangs alike. Stroll around the pond, hang a hammock beneath the hundred year old apple trees, or take a yoga class amongst the equines.

Trails Woodland Camps

1 site · Tent55 acres · Ellsworth, ME

Explore 55 acres of pristine forest boasting winding walking trails, a babbling stream, and a tranquil pond. Additionally, embrace the winter wonderland with a dedicated snowmobile trail for seasonal sports enthusiasts. The area teems with abundant wildlife, providing ample opportunities for observation and photography. Presently, we provide forest campsites, with plans to introduce cabins in the near future. If you seek secluded campsites immersed in a wild, natural environment, yet conveniently located within easy driving distance of other recreational activities, look no further – we offer precisely what you desire. Choose from our selection of 10 tent campsites, ideal for family fun and adventure, complete with private trails for exploration. Unlike State Parks, we encourage families to forage for firewood and practice campfire skills, with the option to purchase camp wood onsite, along with a variety of other enjoyable items and necessities.

6 top ranch campgrounds in Maine with wildlife watching

Wolves and Sounds of the Night

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Trenton, ME

Important: When you submit a request be sure to check your hipcamp messages for questions and the acceptance confirmation info. Submitting a request does not finalize or guarantee a reservation, Which requires approval from the property. Before you make a reservation read the description of each site, there are 5 different names of the choices with different options. . Read all of the info, when you submit your request please include/verify the following info: Is everyone in your group at least 21?/No kids or pets traveling with you.? What sort or camping unit.? Tent/RoofTent/RV/Hammock/Trailer./Van./ Box Truck or creative bus conversion/Cowboy Camper…? Just tell us ! Your reservation request will not be accepted until we have those responses so including that with your reservation request is what we need to know. Several of us live/work/answer messages here. Clarity with your request is necessary. At check out look at the “extras” section to include any pre purchases or rentals. For those flying in or wanting to travel light, you can select “The Works” which includes a tent, bedding , firewood , towels ,chairs, a cooler and numerous camping necessities including coffee and cups. Great for spontaneous adventures and we will have the tent site ready for you to just show up. Easy! Our camping section is located on the property of Kisma Preserve. Home to abundant local wildlife and , resident animals , Including domestic and non domestic and our favorite, Wolves. . Most of the staff live here full time all year. The sounds of the night are magical. Unleash your imagination and camp here away from the crowds that exist within the local Acadia National Park area which begins about 5 minutes away at Thompson’s Island and the bridge to Mt Desert Island. We are close to basic necessities, and a step away from the masses. We do educational tours daily and if interested these tours are arranged by reservation too. We may allow camping in Winter months but if it is between November and May it is very important to call and find out the accessibility as weather impacts everything. The shower will likely be unavailable in freezing months and some sites are closed. CALL and speak with a staff member before reserving. Self contained Adventure Vans and tent campers with Winter Gear and Rooftop Tents can be accommodated. Or If you want to have a solid roof , screens and a fabulous view ask about reserving our Cadillac Mountain View Loft or if the idea of being naked under the stars is appealing opt for our Raw and Rough site.! Pulling in late, and leaving early for a typical Sunrise reservation.? We can also accommodate that if we know that is all you want. Traveling with your horse.? Talk to us about an Equine site. The Biker’s Bunkhouse is ideal for motorcycle travelers as it shelters both the guest and the Bike/s. Always call, we can answer all questions to get you into the right site for your style of adventuring. With each listing be sure to read all the information. If you are interested in a spontaneous camping adventure, if your luggage got lost or if you just don’t want to deal with transporting camping gear we have a variety of rental equipment. Last minute reservation requests may not work via the reservation site but we may very likely have a space. Any questions, call two zero seven six six seven three two four four, calling is the only way to be certain we receive your communications.

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 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.

Bravenit Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Lyman, ME

The camp sits on 50 acres of trails, forests, fields, and more. This special spot is tucked away in southern Maine, and only 25 minutes from Interstate 95. "Rustic" is a good word to describe Bravenit Camp, but it's so much more! Check out the horse barns, the pond, the stream, try fishing in the river (though it is hard to find), or write a poem in the Writers Cottage.

Camden Hills Equine Inn

2 sites · RVs11 acres · Lincolnville, ME

My Equine Inn was established in 2012 to welcome fellow horse enthusiasts and trail riders to enjoy the trails accessible from my property. While we do not offer rentals, we do offer guided trail rides to those bringing their own horse. Hip Camp seems to be a perfect way to expand! We're looking forward to welcoming campers who would love to have the opportunity to spend a bit of time getting to know our equine companions. Sorry, strictly BYOH (bring your own horse) for trail riding options. Very happy to help you plan your itinerary while you're here!

ShadowLands Ranch

5 sites · Lodging, Tents70 acres · Lee, ME

Tranquil 70 acre horse ranch retreat in the North Maine woods. Shadowlands Ranch boasts green pastures, lush forest, walking trails, primitive camping, horseback rides, diverse nature and wildlife, and much more. The property is home to a small herd of horses made up of rescues, competition horses and wild mustangs alike. Stroll around the pond, hang a hammock beneath the hundred year old apple trees, or take a yoga class amongst the equines.

Trails Woodland Camps

1 site · Tent55 acres · Ellsworth, ME

Explore 55 acres of pristine forest boasting winding walking trails, a babbling stream, and a tranquil pond. Additionally, embrace the winter wonderland with a dedicated snowmobile trail for seasonal sports enthusiasts. The area teems with abundant wildlife, providing ample opportunities for observation and photography. Presently, we provide forest campsites, with plans to introduce cabins in the near future. If you seek secluded campsites immersed in a wild, natural environment, yet conveniently located within easy driving distance of other recreational activities, look no further – we offer precisely what you desire. Choose from our selection of 10 tent campsites, ideal for family fun and adventure, complete with private trails for exploration. Unlike State Parks, we encourage families to forage for firewood and practice campfire skills, with the option to purchase camp wood onsite, along with a variety of other enjoyable items and necessities.

Available this weekend

Wolves and Sounds of the Night

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Trenton, ME

Important: When you submit a request be sure to check your hipcamp messages for questions and the acceptance confirmation info. Submitting a request does not finalize or guarantee a reservation, Which requires approval from the property. Before you make a reservation read the description of each site, there are 5 different names of the choices with different options. . Read all of the info, when you submit your request please include/verify the following info: Is everyone in your group at least 21?/No kids or pets traveling with you.? What sort or camping unit.? Tent/RoofTent/RV/Hammock/Trailer./Van./ Box Truck or creative bus conversion/Cowboy Camper…? Just tell us ! Your reservation request will not be accepted until we have those responses so including that with your reservation request is what we need to know. Several of us live/work/answer messages here. Clarity with your request is necessary. At check out look at the “extras” section to include any pre purchases or rentals. For those flying in or wanting to travel light, you can select “The Works” which includes a tent, bedding , firewood , towels ,chairs, a cooler and numerous camping necessities including coffee and cups. Great for spontaneous adventures and we will have the tent site ready for you to just show up. Easy! Our camping section is located on the property of Kisma Preserve. Home to abundant local wildlife and , resident animals , Including domestic and non domestic and our favorite, Wolves. . Most of the staff live here full time all year. The sounds of the night are magical. Unleash your imagination and camp here away from the crowds that exist within the local Acadia National Park area which begins about 5 minutes away at Thompson’s Island and the bridge to Mt Desert Island. We are close to basic necessities, and a step away from the masses. We do educational tours daily and if interested these tours are arranged by reservation too. We may allow camping in Winter months but if it is between November and May it is very important to call and find out the accessibility as weather impacts everything. The shower will likely be unavailable in freezing months and some sites are closed. CALL and speak with a staff member before reserving. Self contained Adventure Vans and tent campers with Winter Gear and Rooftop Tents can be accommodated. Or If you want to have a solid roof , screens and a fabulous view ask about reserving our Cadillac Mountain View Loft or if the idea of being naked under the stars is appealing opt for our Raw and Rough site.! Pulling in late, and leaving early for a typical Sunrise reservation.? We can also accommodate that if we know that is all you want. Traveling with your horse.? Talk to us about an Equine site. The Biker’s Bunkhouse is ideal for motorcycle travelers as it shelters both the guest and the Bike/s. Always call, we can answer all questions to get you into the right site for your style of adventuring. With each listing be sure to read all the information. If you are interested in a spontaneous camping adventure, if your luggage got lost or if you just don’t want to deal with transporting camping gear we have a variety of rental equipment. Last minute reservation requests may not work via the reservation site but we may very likely have a space. Any questions, call two zero seven six six seven three two four four, calling is the only way to be certain we receive your communications.

ShadowLands Ranch

5 sites · Lodging, Tents70 acres · Lee, ME

Tranquil 70 acre horse ranch retreat in the North Maine woods. Shadowlands Ranch boasts green pastures, lush forest, walking trails, primitive camping, horseback rides, diverse nature and wildlife, and much more. The property is home to a small herd of horses made up of rescues, competition horses and wild mustangs alike. Stroll around the pond, hang a hammock beneath the hundred year old apple trees, or take a yoga class amongst the equines.

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 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.

Camden Hills Equine Inn

2 sites · RVs11 acres · Lincolnville, ME

My Equine Inn was established in 2012 to welcome fellow horse enthusiasts and trail riders to enjoy the trails accessible from my property. While we do not offer rentals, we do offer guided trail rides to those bringing their own horse. Hip Camp seems to be a perfect way to expand! We're looking forward to welcoming campers who would love to have the opportunity to spend a bit of time getting to know our equine companions. Sorry, strictly BYOH (bring your own horse) for trail riding options. Very happy to help you plan your itinerary while you're here!

Value Prop

Value Prop

Ranch camping in Maine with wildlife watching guide

Overview

There's much more to Maine than lighthouses, lobster shacks, and sandy beaches. The northernmost state in New England packs in surprising variety, from the rocky islands and seaside resorts of the Atlantic shore to the forests and mountains of the Appalachian Mountains. Campers can take their pick of 32 state parks and one epic national park, filled with lakes, woodlands, and beaches to hike, bike, climb, and kayak. "Vacationland" pulls in the summer crowds, especially along the coast, but our pick is fall, when the northern highlands are ablaze with foliage.

Where to go

Aroostook & the Highlands

Maine’s mountainous north is the stuff that hiker’s bucket lists are made of. The sprawling wilderness of Baxter State Park is the starting point of the epic Appalachian Trail and home to Maine’s highest peak—the 5,267-foot Mount Katahdin. Miles of hiking trails run through the highlands, along with some of the state’s best snowmobiling and cross-country skiing trails. To get on the water, head to Moosehead Lake, or try paddling and backcountry tent camping along the Allagash Wilderness Waterway.

Maine Lakes & Mountains

The hills and valleys of western Maine are peppered with high peaks and hundreds of glacial lakes, affording plenty of opportunities for a back-to-nature camping experience. Drive the High Peaks Scenic Byway for some of the most spectacular views, enjoy family camping at Sebago Lake State Park, or check into an RV park near Bethel, Naples, or Lewiston. In winter, rent a cozy ski chalet and hit the ski resorts of Sugar Loaf, Shawnee Peak, and Sunday River.

Southern Maine Coast

When summer temperatures soar, some of the most popular Maine campgrounds and beaches are found along the southwest shore. Head to the beach towns of Kennebunkport, Freeport, and Portland for old-fashioned seaside fun; go boating or kayaking around Casco Bay; then snag an RV site or cabin rental at the oceanfront campground in Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park.

Downeast & Acadia

Maine’s only national park, Acadia National Park, is the headline act of DownEast, the state’s rugged and rocky southeastern coast. Opt to stay on the mainland at Bar Harbor and head over to admire the park’s historic lighthouses and ocean views, or choose from multiple camping areas on the islands. Further north, the 15 coastal parklands of Cobscook Shores have picnic tables, boat launches, and backcountry camping sites.

Popular Maine trips

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Top parks in Maine

Acadia National Park

Sebago Lake State Park

Lamoine State Park

Baxter State Park

Peaks-Kenny State Park

Richardson Public Reserved Land

Cutler Coast Public Reserved Land

Holeb Public Reserved Land

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