Maine is a top destination for nature lovers looking to experience the great outdoors while still enjoying some creature comforts. Glamping, or “glamorous camping,” allows you to sleep under the stars without sacrificing amenities like cozy beds, private bathrooms, and sometimes even WiFi. Glamping in Maine offers the perfect blend of rustic adventure and luxury. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, you’ll find scenic locales from the coast to the mountains.
Key Takeaways:
- Glamping provides comforts like beds, bathrooms, and sometimes WiFi while camping.
- Options range from yurts and tents to cabins, domes, and even floating houseboats.
- Top glamping regions include Acadia National Park, inland Maine mountains and lakes, and coastal southern Maine.
- Prices range from around $100/night for basic tents to $500/night for high-end accommodations.
- Peak season is May through October, but some places offer winter glamping.
Why Glamp in Maine?
Glamping is on the rise across the U.S., and Maine in particular provides a spectacular natural setting for this type of getaway. Here’s why it’s become so popular:
Scenery
From Acadia’s rocky coast to the western mountains to inland forests and lakes, Maine’s diverse landscapes look like something straight out of a postcard. Waking up to sunrises over the water or trees swaying in the breeze makes for an unforgettable experience.
Access to the Outdoors
Glamping puts you right in the middle of everything Maine has to offer outdoor enthusiasts: hiking, biking, boating, swimming, fishing, and more. Days can be packed full of adventure.
Wildlife Viewing
Maine is prime moose and bear country. You’re much more likely to see these iconic creatures while glamping than at a hotel. Bird watching is also popular, with bald eagles among the species spotted.
Stargazing
With minimal light pollution, the night skies in Maine are awe-inspiring. The Milky Way sparkles brightly overhead. Keep an eye out for shooting stars!
Cozy Accommodations
While traditional camping is roughing it, glamping lets you enjoy fire pits, cozy beds, and sometimes even luxuries like big soaking tubs. It’s camping, upgraded.
Unique Lodging Options
In Maine you can glamp lakeside in yurts, sleep seaside in decked-out tents, or slumber in the treetops in a treehouse. The variety of creative accommodations makes glamping here extra special.
Food & Activities Onsite
Many glamping resorts and campgrounds have restaurants, swimming pools, yoga classes, guided hikes, movie nights under the stars, and more. You don’t have to go far for entertainment.
Best Regions for Glamping in Maine
Acadia National Park & Downeast Maine
Maine’s iconic national park on the eastern coast draws big crowds in peak summer. Glamping provides scenic lodging options and easy access to hiking trails, beaches, and Bar Harbor’s shops and restaurants. Stockton Springs Yurts and Terramor Outdoor Resort are top picks in this region.
Midcoast & Southern Maine
The southern Maine coastline has less crowds and lower prices than Acadia while still providing oceanside glamping spots. Highlights like Portland and the Kennebunks make great home bases. Check out Sandy Pines Campground or Clarke Point in the midcoast.
Western Maine Mountains & Lakes
Inland Maine delivers scenery reminiscent of the alpine west. The White Mountains region offers adventures like hiking and watersports on Moosehead Lake. Frost Mountain Yurts and Lakeside Landing are glamping highlights near mountains and lakes.
Northern Maine Woods
The sparsely populated north woods provide the ultimate seclusion. However, you’re also near attractions like Baxter State Park and Mount Katahdin. Big Moose Cabins or Turner Farm Tentrr sites let you relax fireside after long days exploring.
Glamping Accommodations in Maine
Luxury Canvas Tents
Spacious and breezy canvas tents allow you to feel at one with nature while enjoying queen beds, plush bedding, WiFi, and sometimes en suite bathrooms. Luxury tents can be found at Under Canvas Acadia, Sandy Pines Campground, Terramor Outdoor Resort, and more.
Yurts
Round yurts nicely blend outdoorsiness with comforts like beds, seating areas, wood stoves, and basic kitchens. They’re spacious and perfect for families. Try yurts at Destinations Inn Yurts, Frost Mountain Yurts, or Stockton Springs Harbor Yurts.
Cabins
When you want walls and a roof over your head, choose from rustic log cabins to more modern modular units with full bathrooms and kitchens. Look for cabins at Cottonwood RV Park, Point Sebago, or Lakeside Landing.
Treehouses
Every kid’s dream come true, treehouses allow you to sleep nestled high up in the treetops. Maine options include a secluded island treehouse getaway on House Island or mountainside treehouses at Sunday River.
Geodesic Domes
See the stars through a transparent dome roof for an almost 360-degree glamping experience. Comfy Dome and Nomad’s Rest deliver dome glamping with plush beds and amenities.
Vintage Campers
Get a retro vibe glamping in classic camper trailers, decked out with modern interiors at spots like Sandy Pines Campground and Lakeside Landing. Enjoy the built-in kitchenettes and small bathrooms.
Floating Lodges
Imagine waking up on the water! Rent a self-contained floating cabin or converted houseboat through Airbnb or Vrbo. Options are located lakeside in central and western Maine.
When to Go Glamping in Maine
Peak glamping season in Maine aligns with warm weather months from May through October. Some places do stay open year-round or offer winter glamping for the hardy who love snow adventures.
Spring (May & June)
Spring is mud season in Maine, but late May and June bring blooming wildflowers, waterfalls, and migrating birds. Blackflies can be pesky until mid-June. Expect cool nights and warm (50s-60s°F), sunny days.
Summer (July & August)
July and August are the most popular, most expensive months for glamping in Maine. Daytime temps reach 70-80°F. Be prepared for crowds along the coast and in Acadia. Reserve well in advance.
Fall (September & October)
September and October are exquisite in Maine with fewer bugs and tourists. Trees display vibrant fall foliage starting in mid-September. It cools off at night but days remain mild (50-60s°F).
Winter (November – April)
Only a few hardy places offer winter glamping. Expect frigid temps, deep snow, and minimal crowds. Join winter activities like skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, and ice fishing. Or just cozy up by the fire!
Top Maine Glamping Destinations
Acadia National Park
America’s 6th most visited national park brings over 3.5 million people annually to Maine’s rocky Downeast coast. Its mountains, cliffs, and historic carriage roads weave around idyllic islands and bays. Stay at a glamping spot like Under Canvas Acadia or Acadia Yurts which provide quick access to trails while avoiding crowds.
Portland & Southern Maine Coast
Portland provides top-notch restaurants, breweries, shops, and a lively waterfront all an easy drive from southern Maine’s sandy beaches and lighthouses. Nearby spots like Sandy Pines Campground or Terramor Outdoor Resort let you balance city fun with natural rejuvenation.
Moosehead Lake Region
Vast Moosehead Lake delivers quintessential Maine scenery: mountains, evergreen forests, loons calling across misty waters. Stay in a remote log cabin or lakeside yurt, then spend days canoeing, fishing, hiking Mount Kineo, and wildlife watching. Try Rockwood Cottages or Northeast Whitewater.
Baxter State Park & Mount Katahdin
While much of Maine is rugged and wild, Baxter State Park takes it to another level with its steep mountains and massive expanses of forest. Come here to climb Mount Katahdin, Maine’s highest peak, or just enjoy solitude. Base yourself out of Big Moose Inn or Katahdin Lake Wilderness Camps.
FAQ about Glamping in Maine
What should I pack for glamping in Maine?
Pack layers and outdoor gear like hiking boots and rain jackets. Bring a swimsuit and sunscreen. Have cozy clothes for chilly nights, like sweatshirts and wool socks. Don’t forget camping basics like flashlights, insect repellent, travel mugs, and a small first aid kit.
What are the bathroom facilities like?
Bathrooms vary widely. Luxury canvas tents may have full private bathrooms. Yurts and cabins offer composting or flush toilets. More rustic sites have shared centralized restrooms and showers. Ask about facilities when booking.
Is there cell service and WiFi?
It depends on how remote the location is. Some wilderness glamping spots have no connectivity. Others provide WiFi in main buildings but not tents. If staying connected is important, inquire about Internet availability beforehand.
Can I bring my dog glamping?
Many places allow dogs, but some don’t. Expect to pay a pet fee. Always keep dogs leashed and pick up after them. Ask about vet and vaccination requirements. Make sure your dog can handle being outdoors all day.
How early should I book a glamping vacation?
Summer reservations (July & August) often book up 6 months to a year in advance at popular spots. For other months, aim to book 1-3 months ahead if possible. Last minute trips may have availability at less crowded locales.
Is glamping in Maine good for kids?
Absolutely! Glamping appeals to kids who want to roast marshmallows and go on adventures, but also like comfy beds. Many sites have pools, games, crafts, and kid-friendly programming. Just be prepared for families sharing common facilities.
Plan an Epic Glamping Trip in Maine
Glamping lets you experience Maine’s natural wonders without sacrificing comfort on your vacation. Follow these tips for an amazing trip:
- Reserve your accommodations early, especially for peak summer months.
- Pack for both adventuring days and relaxing nights under the stars. Bring cozy layers!
- research your destination so you don’t miss out on area highlights.
- Inquire about bathroom facilities, cell service, pets, kid-friendly amenities, and any other needs.
- Allow ample driving time as many sites are remote. Have offline maps on hand.
- Join in any guided activities, classes, or entertainment offered onsite.
- Savour being immersed in Maine’s scenery while cozying up in your luxe tent or cabin after busy days exploring!
So get ready to soak up scenic Maine sunrises, breathe in that crisp ocean air, hike through lush forests, and sleep peacefully under a blanket of stars when you go glamping!
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