Maine is one of the country’s most interesting states. From its beautiful seaport towns (complete with cruise ship ports of call) to its thick, dense pine forests, to its shining cities, it’s got something for everyone. One of the best ways to see the state and all of its sights? By renting an RV, obviously. Between the coastal highways to the winding roads in the inland forests, you’ll see a lot of Maine from a rental RV.
While tourism is definitely popular in Maine, it’s very easy to find a lot of peace there. Certain areas will be busier, but others will offer plenty of space. It’s a very enjoyable area to take in by road. The recreation is an outdoorsy type’s dream: surfing, swimming, fishing, hunting, roller coasters, kayaking, camping, and boardwalks are all within range of your rental RV.
Renting an RV in Maine means you can spend as much (or as little) time as you want in any area. While many campsites do require reservations, there’s more freedom to see the things you want when you wake up right in the middle of an attraction. You can wake up, get ready, and hit the trailhead that’s practically right outside your RV.
Otherwise, renting an RV saves you the hassle of maintenance and upkeep of an RV. It can also act as a test period to see just how much you enjoy it, and if you do, whether or not you want to buy one.
There’s a lot to see in Maine, and that can make planning a trip hard. Do you stay along the coasts more or hit the pine tree forests first? It’s hard to say. To help, we’ve put together a list of 10 wild places that should be high on your list.
South of Bristol is Pemaquid Point. Inside the park, which sits on the rocky outcropping of the coast, you’ll find the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse (the same lighthouse featured on the Maine quarter). It was commissioned by President John Quincy Adams in 1827 and is still an active lighthouse today. Elsewhere in the park, you’ll find a Fisherman’s Museum in the Keeper’s House and the Pemaquid Art Museum.
Learn more about Bristol and Pemaquid Point
Acadia technically sits on an island. That means there’s also miles of coastline to walk along and discover while you’re visiting. You’ll find mountains, pines, and wildlife throughout the park. Look for Cadillac Mountain, but shouldn’t have trouble finding it—it’s the highest point on the eastern seaboard. As far as wildlife, expect to see various species of birds including peregrine falcons and sea ducks. And while it’s rare, you may even spot a moose.
Learn more about Acadia National Park
Sebago Lake is considered one of Maine’s purest and cleanest lakes. When visitors see it for the first time, they’re often shocked at the water clarity. Five public beaches surround the lake as well as golf courses for those less fishing inclined. Camping is abundant around the area too. That said, because of its proximity to the Atlantic, the area can be temperamental when it comes to weather, and nice days can turn iffy very quickly.
Learn more about Sebago Lake
Twenty different trails run through the park and range from easy to moderate. Mount Megunticook—the highest inland point in Maine—is a moderate climb. Spend a day hiking and enjoying the views, then visit Camden and take a boat cruise to see whales or puffins out on the islands off the coast.
Learn more about Camden Hills State Park
As you’re out hiking, keep out an eye for wildlife—moose, squirrel, coyote, fox, and even black bear all call the area home. The park is also connected to the Tumbledown Public Lands, another area known for its year-round recreation and enjoyment. Should you choose to visit the area in winter, you’ll still find plenty to do, including cross-country skiing, snow-shoeing, and more.
Learn more about Mount Blue State Park
Much of the area surrounding the lake is unspoiled wilderness. That means you can get as much tranquility and peace as you can imagine. Don’t miss Mount Kineo (it’ll be difficult to) and it’s 700-foot cliffs rising out of the water. If you find yourself in need of some socialization several towns border the lake and offer shopping and restaurants.
Learn more about Moosehead Lake
Named for the mostly-demolished Fort Williams—a fort used during WWI and WWII—today the park also houses Goddard Mansion, another ruin that’s a big draw. Recreational areas abound in the park, including a baseball diamond, basketball and tennis courts, and more.
Learn more about Fort Williams Park
The hiking trails around the area are rated highly, but some are also strenuous. In fact, the Appalachian Trail runs near the summit of the mountain. Near the mountain are several shops and restaurants for restocking and refueling.
Learn more about Sugarloaf Mountain
It’s a haven for several seabirds, so it makes for great birdwatching. If you’re looking to enjoy the ocean, there’s both Mile and Half-Mile Beaches (aptly named) and surfing is also very popular in the area. There are lovely hiking trails on mostly easy terrain, but they can run upwards of a few miles so pack snacks and water accordingly. Head up to Griffith Head, a rocky overlook, for wide-sweeping views of the ocean.
Learn more about Reid State Park
Between all of Maine’s public lands, its numerous state parks and Acadia, and others, Maine is a veritable hotbed for campgrounds and RV parks. In and around almost any area you want to camp, you’ll likely be able to find a place to suit your needs. While some of these areas may be limited to backcountry and primitive camping, there are plenty that have full RV hookups so you can make good use of your rental.
Maine’s a popular vacation spot, so be prepared for campsites to fill up very fast. It’s rare to show up to a location and be granted a spot. Most Maine campgrounds require reservations ahead of time. It helps to plan your route through Maine ahead of time, find the places you’re most interested in, and book your stays. Good Sam maintains a list of RV parks in Maine worth checking out.
Maine has a lot of different kinds of land and depending on where you are, your camping experience may vary drastically from place to place. During the summer, Maine is famously comfortable. Temperatures rarely get too warm, and if you’re near the coast, you’ll feel a lovely breeze come off the ocean.
Nights can get quite chilly, even in the summer. It’s a good idea to pack and dress in layers, so you can plan accordingly. Even if you’re not near the coast, hiking up onto a high mountain can see the temperature drop significantly and leave you wishing you had a jacket. In winter months, the cold can be quite bitter at times and snow can drop in large amounts very quickly. Having extra blankets and jackets or coats is a good idea.
In heavily wooded areas, bugs can be particularly vicious—especially mosquitoes. Be prepared with lots of bugspray. Maine has wildlife too, including bears. Your RV will be perfectly safe but follow protocol for what to do if you encounter wildlife.
Maine has a ton of public land, and it’s encouraged to find your own places to camp. Many of Maine’s “backcountry” campsites won’t be accessible to an RV, but there are lots of other areas that are. Exploring the state and finding public lands gives you an opportunity to get the most remote camping experience possible.
Dry camping or boondocking refers to camping in an RV without access to water, electricity, or sewer hookups. You have to rely on the water in your tank and usually a generator for power. It’s a more rustic form of RV camping, but one many people enjoy—it gets them closer to nature and allows them to camp for free. If you’re boondocking, make certain you’re on public land and not private property, but otherwise, get out and enjoy Maine’s wild nature.