5 Essential Tips to Have the Perfect Maine Camping Trip

Planning your first (or 20th) camping trip in Maine? There are some simple things you can do to help your adventure in the Maine woods go more smoothly–whether you’re camping with a family, as a couple, or with a group of friends.

Note: Northern Outdoors has two campgrounds in different areas of Maine: Kennebec River Campground in The Forks, Maine (pictured above) and Big Moose Campground next to Baxter State Park.

1. Do not underestimate the need for bug spray.

They don’t call the mosquito the unofficial “Maine state bird” for nothing. To keep mosquitoes, black flies, and ticks at bay, make sure you’re prepared with plenty of bug dope. Wearing light-colored pants and long-sleeved shirts (if it’s not too hot) is also a good idea for noticing a tick that tries to hitchhike.

2. Do some food prep ahead of time.

Unless you’re staying in a cabin with a kitchen, prepping some of your food (especially the hard-to-clean items) at home can make camp cooking a lot easier. For example, we always make fried rice over the campfire, but cleaning a rice pot while camping is not my idea of a good time, so I cook up the rice and chop the veggies at home. Seasoning or marinating meat is also a helpful trick.

3. Get a map! And talk to locals.

I don’t recommend relying on cell phone service for directions when you’re in the Maine woods. When you’re camping in Maine, a map is indispensable. Pair that with good, old-fashioned asking a local for recommendations, and you’ll be set. Our staff at the lodge will be happy to chat your ear off about the best hikes, scenic views, and places to see moose in the area.

4. Plan some down time as well as some activities.

Rafting and ATVing are at the top of our list, of course- but lazing around on the water or in a hammock, biking the local trails, grabbing a beer at the brewery, or relaxing by the fire are fun ways to pass the time when you’re camping in Maine. Mix up your hiking or rafting days by giving yourself time to kick back.

5. Plan for rainy day activities.

It’s definitely a bummer to get rained on while you’re camping, but the weather in Maine can be unpredictable. Having a contingency plan with plenty of games can help if you get a rainy day. While you probably won’t want to go hiking in the rain, you can still head out on the river–you’ll be getting wet anyway! Or, rent an ATV– the rain keeps the dust down! And you’ll definitely want to warm up in the lodge with a pint of beer afterwards. Don’t worry, we won’t tell anyone you didn’t really “rough it.”

Still on the hunt for the perfect place to camp in Maine? We’ve got two incredible campgrounds with some of the most spectacular views and the best outdoor adventure activities in Maine. Enjoy traditional campsites, cabin tents, or more comfort in a cabin rental at the Northern Outdoors Adventure Resort in The Forks. Or go a little farther afield to experience Maine’s wilderness paradise at our Katahdin Adventure Basecamp.

What other tips for a perfect Maine camping trip would you add to this list?