Where do I begin? We spent just shy of 6 weeks in Maine and it was not enough time. A return trip is already on our radar, probably next summer.
Words I would use to describe this gem of a state. Awe-inspiring, breathtaking, inspiring, astounding, stunning, raw, beauty, remote, and incredible. Just a few that come to mind.
Crossing the state line for the first time.
We decided to tour Maine a bit different than the average visitor would, what I like to call Shamy style. When deciding on areas to explore we chose quality over quantity. Meaning instead of moving every few days to see “all of Maine”, we chose three areas to stay put for longer and really explore. I should also say we did not have any plans set in stone, in true Shamy fashion. We went with what felt right and on the advice of locals.
Which brings me to our landing spot upon first arriving in Maine. Where we spent a weekend at a wonderful Boondocker’s Welcome host site, near Dexter, ME.
Jeff and Roxanne welcomed us, making us feel like family. In fact every day at 4 pm, they hosted Happy Hour followed by family style dinner. Everyone pitched in a little something. It was a wonderful introduction to Maine. Talking to their family members, friends, and fellow campers. This spot included a level spot to park, a dump station, fresh water, and great conversations. The crew included; Jeff’s parents Keith & Elizabeth, grandkids “wrecking Raymond” & Tyler, other family Ralph & Lori, and fellow boondockers Larry & Chantille. Plus doggie friends for Josie; Cash, Apollo, Pixie, and Cookie.
Thanks to this entire family for all of their Maine tips, it helped inform some of our travels.
Moosehead Lake
Our first spot to explore was one we had our eyes on before ever arriving in Maine. It did not disappoint! In fact we contemplated staying the entire time we had in Maine. Yet our inner explorer called us to move on, but not before enjoying this gem.
To say this camping spot was special would be a major understatement. For two full weeks we camped on the shores of Moosehead Lake, completely for free!!
At 75,000 acres, Moosehead Lake is the largest lake in Maine. It also seemed to have its own weather patterns. We were warned it could be calm one moment and the next have 4 foot + waves. Making it a treacherous spot for kayakers.
During our stay we witnessed the gamut of weather. From thunderstorms & choppy water to sunny and calm water. On our arrival day we were greeted by clouds moving in with some rain. And then the clouds parted, a beautiful rainbow was revealed along with a nice sunset.
The resident ducks greeted us right away and seemed to be very intrigued by us. In fact more than once they wandered over to check out my yoga mat while I practiced outside lakeside (no photo evidence – but I swear it happened). They were used to humans and loved hanging around. They even made a short guest appearance in one of my yoga classes I recorded for my YouTube channel.
One of the best things about this free campground (aside from the awesome lake view) was the camp host. Jeff, was an amazing host. He was so friendly and hosted nightly (most nights) campfires at his place. We became fast friends and Josie loved him! (Photo forthcoming – further down this post.)
During our stay the water was calm enough for us to explore via kayak on a couple of occasions. We kept an eye on the wind and had the shoreline in sight just in case we had to make a beeline back.
We had our first portage here. It was the shortest portage ever but it counts. After paddling into this cove, we found a small section of beach standing between us and the lake. Time to portage.
The wind picked up as we were heading back but in our favor, pushing us right back to camp. You can see the difference in the water in a matter of minutes in the photos below.
Words of wisdom: “Be careful if you kayak Moosehead Lake. Don’t go out into the open lake and have an exit plan – aka shoreline nearby.”
You might think we never ventured out from our campsite as it was quite beautiful & peaceful. But yes we made our way out to explore. That is what we do. Scenic views greeted us even on nearby forest roads. It was truly stunning.
I begin referring to Maine as the wow state as there was beauty at every turn it seemed. In the middle of nowhere you would cross a bridge and look out at gorgeous landscapes. Wow became my mantra.
We had a few days sprinkled throughout our 2 week stay where we went out exploring within an hour radius or so. I will save those for the next post as there are plenty of pictures and stories for an entire post on its own.
For now I wanted to wrap up with a few more photos.
A Stephen King book purchased & read in Maine; The Maine Atlas (a must have for all good explorers); a natural spring near our campsite; and Josie relaxing in the kayak.
And before I end this post, I must tell you about our last night here. Jeff organized a combined dinner as a nice send off. Chuck + Nancy, another couple we met around the campfire also joined. Each of us pitching in food. Jeff made us moose steaks and sausages. Everything was oh so good. (I should have snapped a photo but I was caught up in the moment.) Then to top off the evening we had the most amazing sunset. It was truly a wonderful way to end our stay.
Although we normally avoid camping near other people, this campground was the exception. In total there are 35 or so campsites here. Neighbors are nearby yet it felt like home, a community. We loved all of the neighbors we had during our stay. Everyone was so nice and friendly. Plenty of opportunities for social time or the choice to be on your own. We did a little of both. Enjoying meeting new people and being by ourselves.
The short list of people we met, Chuck + Nancy; Amy + Dan, their daughter Dillon; Pam + Scott; Eileen + her dog Gilly; Frank; Everett + Jeanette, their grandson Colby; Patrick and his dog Jonah; and many more of which I did not get their names or failed to write them down.
You may be wondering why I haven’t mentioned the name of this campground. Mostly, because it is that special. I am willing to share if you find yourself venturing up to the Moosehead Lake region. It is remote, 45 minutes from the closest town, primitive (no electricity, water or trash – only vault toilets) and located on active logging roads (aka gravel, rough in spots & logging trucks have the right of way). It was only ever full one day on a weekend. It’s easily found on maps but for now I want to keep this gem as it is. A great place to come back to year after year and make new memories.
Jeff, the camp host + Josie and home for 2 weeks -site #11.
The beach I walked almost every morning to greet the day.
The day we left the water was the calmest I had seen it, not even a tiny ripple of a wave.
Here is a short video capturing the peaceful and serene vibe of Moosehead Lake.
P.S. Writing this post made me smile. We made some great memories at this one.
Leave a Reply