Maine is the most northeastern state in the U.S. and is known for its rocky coastline, heavily forested interior, beautiful waterways, extensive public lands, and lobster and clam cuisine. While in Maine, you can walk on the Northern Terminus of the Appalachian Trail, see numerous lighthouses, eat your fill of delicious lobster dishes, and visit Acadia National Park. You can also try your hand at Maine boondocking in order to save money and immerse yourself in nature.
Here’s everything you need to know before you go boondocking in Maine.
Boondocking Sites in Maine
Moosehead Lake Shoreline Public Lands
There are more than 90 primitive sites inside Moosehead Lake Shoreline Public Lands, which are free for use. These sites have fire rings, picnic tables, and access to a vault toilet. Some are accessible from the road and some only by water.
This area offers multiple hiking trails and plenty of water-based recreational activities, and Lily Bay State Park is nearby. Moosehead Lake is New England’s largest freshwater lake and is considered the gateway to the North Maine Woods. Visitors can hike, snowmobile, cross-country ski, hunt, fish, boat, and camp. Mount Kineo is a popular destination.
Mooselookmeguntic Lake
The Richardson Public Lands is located inside the Rangely Lakes Region and includes Mooselookmeguntic Lake, the fourth-largest lake in Maine. Modern fly-fishing was developed here, as well as many famous trout flies. Today, trout and landlocked salmon continue to be the major draw for fishermen.
There are around nine primitive campsites that are accessible on the west side of Mooselookmeguntic Lake, which can be reached from Mud Pond Rd and W Mooselookmeguntic Rd off of Wilsons Mills Rd. That said, these sites are likely only useable by somebody in a campervan. Big rigs will not fit.
Machias River Corridor
There are a few boondocking sites along the Machias River Corridor that can accommodate RVs. Some of these require long drives down logging roads and all are located pretty far away from any sort of civilization. That said, they are perfect for stargazing, enjoying the river, and exploring the great outdoors.
Airline Rips Campsites is our favorite of these sites. It can easily accommodate RVs and trailers up to ~25 feet in length. Some of the parking spots on this site offer river views and one even has a small shelter.
Where to Boondock in Maine
- As mentioned above, campsites can be found surrounding Mooselookmeguntic Lake and Moosehead Lake and along the Machias River Corridor.
- Bigelow Preserve also plays host to some camping spots, but these may or may not be accessible to RVs.
- Most Maine State Parks offer dry camping as well, but you will need to be prepared to pay a fee.
- The Appalachian Trail could also present opportunities for dispersed camping.
- Lastly, Acadia National Park has dry campsites available for a fee.
An RV road trip through the state of Maine allows for unparalleled outdoor experiences in a variety of landscapes. Whether you take an RV of your own or rent one from RVshare, you’re sure to have an amazing adventure that you won’t soon forget!
