While many folks have heard of Mt. Katahdin—the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail—I’d wager a guess that fewer know that it resides in Baxter State Park.
And those in the know will tell you that this park has far more to offer than the largest peak in Maine (although it is quite breathtaking).
Picnicking, paddling, hiking, climbing, hunting, fishing, biking, wildlife spotting opportunities…and camping, of course.
This area isn’t referred to as wilderness for nothing—and many of the campgrounds in the area don’t fall into the “resort” category, especially the ones in the park.
So, pack up your gear, bring your compass (not much reception for GPS in these parts), and hit the road.
Map of Baxter State Park and Mt. Katahdin Campgronds
If you’re looking to camp near Baxter State Park, check out this map of all the campgrounds mentioned in this article.
Baxter State Park Campgrounds
Baxter State Park includes more than 310 square miles of rugged wilderness—so it’s a good thing there are 11 campgrounds to choose from within the park. Amenities are pretty much at the bare minimum; you’ll have access to outhouses and natural water sources, but no showers, spigots, hookups, or stores.
Depending on which campground you reserve, there may be tent sites, cabins, lean-tos, group sites, or bunkhouses available; be sure to check the website for details about what you’ll need to bring with you.
Note that pets are not allowed anywhere in Baxter State Park.
Location: Baxter State Park, Millinocket, ME 04462
Website: Baxter State Park Campgrounds
Abol Bridge Campground and Store
This jack-of-all-trades spot features a campground and store, yes, but there is also a gas station and a full-service restaurant/bar on site. The Appalachian Trail is steps away from the front of the store, and the campground sits alongside Baxter State Park and the Penobscot River.
There are sites for tents, campers, and RVs, and there are also 6-person bunkhouses available; continental breakfast is even included with your stay. Can’t beat that with a stick!
You can also book tubing excursions on the river—but reserve early, because these trips are very popular.
Location: 3969 Golden Road, Mile 19, Millinocket, ME 04462
Website: Abol Bridge Campground
Wilderness Edge Campground
This amenity-packed, pet-friendly campground is just 15 minutes away from Baxter State Park and has 47 RV sites with hookups, 64 tent sites, 3 cabins, and RV rentals available.
Folks rave about the cleanliness of the bathrooms here—and no quarters needed for a hot shower, either. There are family-centric features like a swimming pool and a playground, and you can rent canoes or kayaks—with transportation to your chosen launch site included.
A general store is on-site, and there’s shuttle service to Baxter State Park, too. And if you have an ATV, bring it—there’s direct access to trails from the campground.
Location: 71 Millinocket Lake Rd, Millinocket, ME 04462
Website: Wilderness Edge Campground
Big Moose Inn, Cabins & Campground
Situated on Millinocket Lake, the pet-friendly campground at Big Moose Inn has 35 tent sites, 6 lean-tos, and 6 RV (up to 45’) sites with water and electric hookups.
The spotless bathrooms feature coin-operated hot showers, perfect after a long trek in the park.
There is a restaurant at the inn, and you can also sign up for one of many vacation packages, boat tours, adventure outings, and workshops.
And if the weather doesn’t cooperate with your tenting plans, there are also fully-furnished cabins on offer at Big Moose; there’s always the option to book a last-minute room at the inn, of course.
Location: 5 Frederickas Way, Millinocket, ME 04462
Website: Big Moose Inn, Cabins & Campground
Chewonki Big Eddy Campground
Tent or RV (30’ max) sites—as well as canvas tent and cabin rentals—are on offer at Chewonki, a world-class fishing site for landlocked salmon on the Penobscot River, just outside Baxter State Park.
“A true wilderness experience,” you’ll find very few amenities at pet-friendly Chewonki—it is expected you are in the area to enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings and the recreation options afforded by the park.
There are bathrooms and hot showers, however, as well as several potable water spigots located throughout the campground.
Location: Golden Rd, Millinocket, ME 04462
Website: Chewonki Big Eddy Campground
Penobscot Outdoor Center
The camping arm of the New England Outdoor Center, the POC is located on Pockwockamus Pond.
There is an abundance of campsites available here, ranging from sites that will accommodate 1-4 people up to ones that fit 20.
And once you book your camping accommodations through POC, you’ll also be able to peruse a slew of excursions on offer through NEOC, just 7.5 miles southeast on Lake Millinocket. White water rafting, wildlife tours, and other guided adventure options are available—and if you prefer cabin camping or don’t own a tent, you can rent either.
The cabin tents are all set up and sleep up to four; bunkhouses sleep either 4 or 5.
Location: 135 Basecamp Rd, Millinocket, ME 04462
Website: New England Outdoor Center
Matagamon Wilderness Campground
Less than two miles to the north entrance of Baxter State Park, the Matagamon Wilderness Campground is right on the Penobscot River.
Sites can accommodate tents and campers/RVs up to 42’, and all include a picnic table and fire pit. Bathrooms are cleaned daily, coin-operated showers are available, and there is also a camp store.
Seven cabins—with fully-outfitted kitchens, bathrooms, running water, electricity, and varying accommodation options—are also available to rent at Matagamon.
Location: 159 Rte 11, Patten, ME 04765
Website: Matagamon Wilderness Campground
Shin Pond Village Campground
This family-owned compound of lodging options—camping, cottages, suites, and entire homes—sits on 100 acres in the Katahdin Region. Camping options include 7 tent sites and 25 RV/trailer/popup sites with water and electric hookups.
Amenities at Shin Pond Village include a general store, a gift shop, a full restaurant and bar, a guest lounge with satellite TV, and more.
If you choose to come in the winter and stay in one of the cottages or suites, the folks at Shin Pond also do a brisk business in Polaris snowmobiles and gear; if you visit in the summer, try one of their Polaris side-by-sides.
Location: 1489 Shin Pond Rd, Mt Chase, ME 04765
Website: Shin Pond Village Campground
Katahdin Shadows Campground & Cabins
Tucked into the “shadows of Katahdin,” this campground has sites for tents, campers, and RVs—many featuring full hookups—as well as family-centric amenities, like a pool, a playground, themed weekends, and an arcade.
There are always fun activities going on—think karaoke, sack races, parades, and more—and there are also cabin rentals available. Pets are welcome.
Location: 118 Katahdin Shadows, Medway, ME 04460
Website: Katahdin Shadows Campground & Cabins
Pine Grove Campground & Cottages
Offering free use of kayaks and canoes on the Penobscot, this pet-friendly campground has everything you need for the perfect getaway in the great outdoors.
There are tent sites as well as hookup sites for RVs (including four spots that will accommodate 45’ rigs); you can also choose to book one of three fully-outfitted cottages or two full-size RV rentals.
There is a recreation hall with a TV, a playground, a kids’ game room, and a camp store; you can also go tubing right from Pine Grove’s private beach on the Penobscot.
Location: 822 Grindstone Rd, Medway, ME 04460
Website: Pine Grove Campground & Cottages
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