Desert of Maine - Freeport, Maine

Liseli P.

Very interesting experience. We weren't sure what to expect. We went with 2 older kids and we picked up the booklets and the activity forms at the check in. It is educational and there is a lot of ground to cover. Make sure you have good walking shoes and be prepared to walk a lot. Some of the activities are steep to get to but the kids can reach everything and they love it. In reality it probably is best for kids 10 & under but the older kids can also enjoy, if they allow themselves. So much space for kids to run around. There is even a giant slide that they can play on. In the summer during the day, put on sunscreen, hat if you need, and bring water.
Please note that the gift shop closes at 6 so if you have little kids and you want to make sure they get their prizes, go back to the gift shop before. The grounds are open until 9 and so is the mini golf I think. The mini golf looked fun although we didn't end up doing it. The entrance fee is a bit expensive but you can stay as long as you like so with younger kids you can definitely make a day of it.
The bathrooms are decent. There is a large parking lot with plenty of parking.
The customer service is great, the people at the front are very friendly. There was an issue with payment that I only realized a couple of days later and when I called, Halle was very sweet and understanding and accommodating.

Eric S.

This is a very unique place indeed. I was slightly disappointed to learn that was a charge to walk the interpretive trail ( it's privately owned).
The woman working in the visitors center was very nice and let me walk to the top of the hill which was the entrance of the dunes (at no cost).

They do have a campground and very nice mini-golf.

I do want to say that this is a very nice looking place. Everything was clean and orderly. I do realize that there are costs associated with the operation of any public place. I should have been more detailed and thoughtful with my initial review.

J.D. G.

Our stay at the Desert of Maine was everything we could have hoped for! From the start, the communication was prompt and personalized, making us feel welcomed and well-informed every step of the way. The cabin itself was spotless and stocked with everything we needed—coffee, tea, Keurig, cookware, salt & pepper, utensils for cooking and eating, plates, bowls, mugs, etc. At the time of booking, we didn't realize our cabin wasn't going to have a sink, but it wasn't a big deal, as the water spigot on the outside of the cabin was potable, and the bathhouse was super close for washing dishes.

There's plenty to do nearby, including shopping in downtown Freeport, a hike at Bradbury Mountain State Park, or breweries (we loved Mast Landing / Nighthawk's Kitchen). Sitting by the fire at the end of the day was quiet and relaxing. The 24/7 camp store was super convenient for grabbing firewood and kindling whenever we needed it. We couldn’t have asked for a better getaway, and we’ll definitely consider Desert of Maine for future trips. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a comfortable, relaxing escape with all the essentials right at your fingertips!

Lee E.

My wife and I spent 4 nights staying at Cabin 26 at the Desert of Maine and had a wonderful time. We had a great experience with the campground from start to finish. I had initially called to ask for a recommendation on what site to book, and the owner was super helpful. When the trip had to be rescheduled from September to June because of a hurricane, they were super accommodating and communicated clearly the whole time.

The cabin itself was spotless and super cozy. Our specific cabin did not have a bathroom, but the cedar bathhouse is legit the nicest public bathroom I have ever used. The view from the huge window in front of the bed was magical, as was the outdoor seating areas. I made tea every night using the kitchenette, and of course had to buy a few of the mugs before leaving to remember the trip.

The perk of no bathroom was our cabin was a bit more secluded, which we appreciated. The park is smaller than expected and the other sites are a bit cramped (but not enough that I wouldn't book one if 26 was unavailable.) We cant wait to come back!

Jim L.

I love this place, each time we go back I like seeing the differences nature makes in trying to take it back over. My kids had a nice time exploring and doing the different activities. I saw an advertisement video about discount tickets to buy in advance that I almost felt guilty of using. But we made up for it by buying ice cream and drinks to cool off after our adventure.

Rewan R. P.

Amazing cabin stays at Desert of Maine. Everything was perfect and flawless. Digital check in and they accommodated an early check in request.

Kitchen is stocked up with plates, cups, coffee machine and utensils. They also have a stove and small refrigerator.

You can buy wood and some food from their self serve store. Everything was super clean and tidy. Loved staying here, definitely coming back again. Highly recommend.

Selin O.

Fantastic stay at the campground! Lots of great amenities, beautifully decorated space, cozy with great heating, easy-to-use outdoor space with fire pit. Our dog also had a wonderful time being welcomed to the space. Will be visiting again for sure!

Alli M.

The perfect “glamping” spot! We can’t wait to wander back here, and are looking forward to bringing friends with us next time! Our dog loved this place even more than we did, he was a very happy camper. Our cozy cabin was very clean and comfy, exactly what we needed! The community bathrooms and showers were always clean and tidy. Our campfire spot was the highlight of our weekend trip to Maine. The lawn games available were also good fun! Being just minutes from town, the breweries, cafe’s and grocery store made it even easier. It feels like you’re in the middle of nowhere but are only minutes away from downtown! We spent the day in Portland as well (also super dog friendly) and were so excited to come back and wind down at the Desert. The mini golf was really unique as well and the dunes were fun to explore! Highly recommend for anyone looking for a unique getaway, first-time campers, glamping lovers, and families with kids of all ages!