Camden, Maine, a quaint coastal town, is far from just another seaside destination. With a population of just under 5,000, it retains a small-town charm while offering a wealth of attractions. The Camden Hills State Park, for starters, with miles of hiking trails and panoramic views from Mount Battie, is a must-visit for nature lovers. This town might not be one of Maine's oldest-founded towns, but it certainly bears a wealth of history that tourists would love to find out about.
Visitors have the opportunity to delve into Camden's rich maritime history, which is apparent in its well-preserved 19th-century architecture. And, the Camden Public Library, a testament to the town's cultural heritage, is the perfect place to visit for book lovers and history enthusiasts; it’s a National Historic Landmark. Part of Camden’s identity is the harbor, which is teeming with classic windjammers and offers scenic boat tours that shouldn't be missed. For food enthusiasts, Camden's seafood, especially its lobster, is renowned nationwide. This destination is actually one of the places to find the best lobster roll in Maine.
Camden, without a doubt, is a Maine gem worth spending a few days exploring. Find out about the top things to do in Camden by reading this complete guide, which also has helpful information on where to eat, stay, and so much more.
Things To Do In Camden, Maine
A hidden small-town gem, Camden is famous for being one of the best beach towns in Maine. Below are some of the top attractions and activities that visitors can experience in this destination.
1 Explore Camden Hills State Park
Camden Hills State Park, located just a few miles from downtown Camden, is a paradise for nature lovers. The park's 5,700 acres are home to diverse flora and fauna, and its trails offer panoramic views of Penobscot Bay, Camden Harbor, and the surrounding mountains.
The park's most famous trail leads to the top of Mount Battie, where a stone tower provides stunning views of the region. Visitors can also explore the park's campgrounds and picnic areas, and enjoy bird watching.
- Address: 280 Belfast Rd, Camden, ME 04843, United States
- Hours: Open daily from 9 am - sunset
- Cost: Adults (12+): $6; Seniors: $2; Children (5 to 11): $1; Children under 5: Free
Although the park is open all year round, some trails may be closed from winter to spring, if the weather is poor.
2 Stroll Along Camden Harbor
Camden Harbor is the heart of the town, where the charm of the old world meets modern amenities. It's a major reason why Camden ranks among the most beautiful towns in Maine.
The harbor area is lined with historic buildings, now housing quaint shops, art galleries, and local eateries. Visitors can watch the boats coming in and out of the harbor, or enjoy a picnic at Harbor Park.
The harbor also hosts several annual events, including the Camden Windjammer Festival and the U.S. National Toboggan Championships.
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Cost: Free
3 Take A Sailing Cruise On One Of Camden's Historic Windjammers
Camden's maritime history is best experienced on a sailing cruise aboard one of the town's historic windjammers. These vintage sailing vessels offer a unique perspective of Penobscot Bay, its lighthouses, and the surrounding islands.
Visitors can choose from a variety of cruises, ranging from a few hours to several days, and some even include onboard meals and overnight accommodations. One of the companies offering these cruises is Maine Windjammer Cruises, which has a large fleet of Windjammers and mainly offers multi-day cruises.
- Cost: From $900
4 Enjoy Some Water Activities At Megunticook Lake
Megunticook Lake, just west of Camden, offers a plethora of water activities. The lake's clear waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy picnics at the lake's shores, or take a hike to Maiden Cliff, which offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding hills.
Boat rentals are available at Barrett's Cove Beach, located on the lake's eastern shore.
- Hours: Open daily from sunrise - sunset
- Cost: Free, but boat rentals vary in price
Visitors can rent a boat and visit the peninsula in the middle of the lake — Fernald’s Neck Preserve. This spot has three hiking trails that tourists can explore.
5 Shop At The Camden Farmers' Market
The Camden Farmers' Market is a must-visit for food lovers. Held every Saturday from May through October as well as Wednesdays in summer, the market offers a variety of local produce, fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, and baked goods.
Visitors can also find handmade crafts, plants, and flowers. This is a great place to sample local flavors and meet the area's farmers and artisans.
- Address: 116 Washington St, Camden, ME 04843, United States
- Hours: Saturdays: 9 am - 12 pm (May - October); Wednesdays: 3:30 pm - 6 pm (June - September)
- Cost: Free, but prices for goods vary
6 Learn About The Region’s Maritime History At Penobscot Marine Museum
Nestled in the heart of Searsport, a half-hour’s drive from Camden, Penobscot Marine Museum is a collection of historic buildings that house a vast array of maritime artifacts. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the region's shipbuilding heritage, from intricate ship models to tools used by shipwrights.
The museum's centerpiece is the Searsport House, a 19th-century sea captain's home filled with period furnishings. The grounds also feature a maritime-themed art gallery and a children's activity area. This museum offers a unique window into the seafaring past of Camden and its surrounding areas.
- Address: 40 E Main St, Searsport, ME 04974, United States
- Hours: Mon - Sat: 10 am - 5 pm; Sun: 12 pm - 5 pm
- Cost: Adults: $15; Seniors: $12; Children (8 to 18): $10; Children (7 and under): Free
Families with 2 or more kids should consider buying the family ticket that costs $40. This ticket grants admission to two adults and their kids.
7 Wander Around Merryspring Nature Center
Discover the tranquil oasis that is Merryspring Nature Center, nestled in the heart of Camden, Maine. This 66-acre park offers an array of nature trails, vibrant botanical gardens, and a diverse collection of flora and fauna.
Visitors can wander through the park's apple orchard, admire the collection of herbs in the kitchen garden, or marvel at the towering conifers in the arboretum. The park is also home to a greenhouse and a visitor center that hosts various educational programs and workshops throughout the year.
Merryspring Nature Center is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 100 species of birds spotted in the park.
- Address: 30 Conway Rd, Camden, ME 04843, United States
- Hours: Sunrise - Sunset (daily)
- Cost: Free
8 Catch A Performance At The Historic Camden Opera House
Nestled in the heart of downtown Camden, the Camden Opera House stands as a testament to the town's rich cultural history. This 1894-built edifice is not just an architectural gem with its Victorian-style design, but also a vibrant hub for performing arts.
Visitors can immerse themselves in an array of performances that range from local theater productions and classical music concerts to shows by internationally acclaimed artists. The opera house also hosts the annual Camden International Film Festival, a must-attend for cinema enthusiasts.
Its intimate 500-seat auditorium ensures there's not a bad seat in the house, providing an up-close experience with the performers.
- Address: 29 Elm St, Camden, ME 04843, United States
- Hours: Varies by event
- Cost: Varies by event
9 Check Out The Collections At Owl's Head Transportation Museum
The Owl's Head Transportation Museum is a must-visit for automobile enthusiasts and history buffs in Camden, Maine. This museum boasts a wealth of vintage transportation artifacts dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It houses an extensive collection of over 100 exhibits, including antique cars, motorcycles, aircraft, and carriages.
Among its prized possessions are a 1910 Stanley Steamer, a 1930 Ford A, and a 1947 Indian Chief Motorcycle. Visitors can also witness live demonstrations of these vintage machines in action.
The museum's grounds also host several annual events, including classic car shows and air shows, attracting crowds from all over the region.
- Address: 117 Museum St, Owls Head, ME 04854, United States
- Hours: Open daily from 10 am - 4 pm
- Cost: Adults (18+): $15; Seniors (65+): $12; Youth (11 to 17): $5; Children (10 and under): Free
10 Enjoy A Day At Laite Memorial Beach
Laite Memorial Beach, located in the heart of Camden, offers a serene spot for relaxation and fun. This sandy beach, situated along the picturesque Penobscot Bay, is a haven for both locals and tourists.
Visitors can revel in the stunning views of the bay's shimmering blue waters, dotted with sailboats under the expansive Maine sky. The beach also features a small playground, picnic tables, and a walking path, making it a perfect place for family outings.
It's not unusual to spot beachgoers indulging in sandcastle building, sunbathing, or just soaking in the calming sea breeze.
This is a low-key beach that’s perfect for those who want to avoid the larger crowds at the more popular spots in Camden.
11 Where To Eat In Camden
Wondering where to eat in Camden? This small town has plenty of eateries for visitors to enjoy.
Breakfast
- Address: 35 Main St, Camden, ME 04843, United States
- Hours: Wed - Mon: 6 am - 2 pm (closed on Tue)
- Dishes: Cheese omelette, ham & cheese omelette, English muffin, cinnamon raisin, Everything Bagel, French toast
- Address: 5 Elm St, Camden, ME 04843, United States
- Hours: 7 am - 4 pm (daily)
- Dishes: Oat porridge, Zoot Toast, Quiché, beans on toast
Lunch/Dinner
- Address: 48 Bay View St, Camden, ME 04843, United States
- Hours: Thu - Tue: 11:30 am - 8 pm; Wed: 11:30 am - 4 pm
- Dishes: Buttermilk fried chicken, local Angus beef burger, Maine lobster roll, Maine crab roll
- Address: 16 Bay Vw Lndg, Camden, ME 04843, United States
- Hours: Wed - Sun: 11:30 am - 9 pm (closed Mon - Tue)
- Dishes: Lobster corn chowder, lobster Quesadilla, Maine clam chowder, chicken Caesar salad, classic burger, fish tacos
Dinner/Drinks
- Address: 83 Bay View St, Camden, ME 04843, United States
- Hours: 5 pm - 8:30 pm (daily)
- Dishes: Seared halibut, Fish N Chips, smoked chicken breast, grilled rib-eye
- Drinks: Port: Ferreira, Smith Woodhouse; sherry, sweet wine, whiskey
- Address: 16 Bay View St, Camden, ME 04843, United States
- Hours: 5 pm - 11 pm (daily)
- Dishes: Oysters, pork dumplings, chicken teriyaki skewers, shrimp, lobster toast
- Drinks: Cocktails: Bartender’s Whim, Dueling Mule, Nutty Sailor, Smoky Paloma, The Big Peach
12 Where To Stay In Camden, Maine
Camden offers accommodations at a range of price points suitable for every traveler.
Hotels
- Address: 16 Bay View Street, Camden, ME 04843
- Price: From $413
- Features: Gym, spa, complimentary breakfast, shared lounge area, private parking, fireplace, bar
- Address: 84 Elm Street, Camden, ME 04843-1907
- Price: From $230
- Features: Complimentary breakfast, free parking, mountain views, picnic area, garden
- Address: 82 Elm Street, Camden, ME 04843
- Price: From $175
- Features: Board games, beach access, free parking, breakfast included, kitchenette
Vacation Rentals
- Address: Camden, Maine, United States
- Price: From $532
- Features: 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, beach access, garden, paid washer/dryer, exercise equipment, fireplace, board games, kitchen facilities, fire pit, BBQ grill, sauna
- Address: Camden, Maine, United States
- Price: From $221
- Features: Studio space, queen bed, kitchen facilities, backyard space, free parking
- Address: Rockport, Maine, United States
- Price: $168
- Features: Kitchenette, patio, free parking, WiFi access, walking distance from the beach
13 Best Time To Visit Camden
Camden experiences a humid continental climate, with the most favorable months for a visit being typically between June and September when the weather is warm and rainfall is relatively low.
Here's a detailed breakdown of what one can expect during the different seasons in Camden, Maine.
June to September
This period is considered the high tourist season in Camden due to the warm and inviting weather, with average maximum temperatures hitting around 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 degrees Celsius) and minimums of about 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius).
Summer is relatively dry, making it an ideal time to explore the town's outdoor attractions. Visitors should prepare for higher prices and larger crowds at the attractions during this time.
October to November
During these months, temperatures begin to drop, with highs of around 60 degrees Fahrenheit (16 degrees Celsius) and lows of 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius).
The arrival of fall brings with it a beautiful display of autumn foliage, painting the town in vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. In fact, Camden is one of the best places in Maine to take in the beauty of fall foliage season.
While the weather is cooler and there's a slight increase in rainfall, it's still a good time to visit Camden as the crowds start to dissipate and prices become more reasonable.
December to May
This time in Camden is marked by cold weather and snow, with temperatures ranging between highs of 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius) and lows of 15 degrees Fahrenheit (-9 degrees Celsius).
Despite the chill, the town takes on a magical appearance under a blanket of snow. While outdoor activities may be limited by the weather, there are plenty of indoor attractions to explore.
The crowds are notably fewer during this period, and the prices are quite budget-friendly, making it an attractive time for those seeking a serene, winter getaway.
14 Getting Around Camden
Those journeying to Camden may find themselves touching down at the Portland International Jetport, a mere 80 miles from Camden. This airport welcomes daily flights from a variety of cities including Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta, and even Toronto.
For those traveling from overseas, the Boston Logan International Airport might be a more suitable choice, although it is approximately a 3-hour drive to Camden.
Once in the city, tourists have a variety of transport options at their disposal.
Car
Camden is a small town, and having a car can be a convenient way to explore it and the surrounding areas. Car rental services are available at both the Portland International Jetport and Boston Logan International Airport.
Bus
The Concord Coach Lines operates a bus service from Portland to Camden. It is a comfortable and affordable way to travel, with fares starting at about $30 for a one-way trip. This service operates daily, making it a reliable means of transportation to and around Camden.
Boat
Camden is a coastal town, and what better way to explore it than by boat? The Camden Harbor Cruises offers daily sightseeing tours, allowing visitors to take in the breathtaking views of the coastline and lighthouses. Fares for these cruises start at $30 per person.
Walking
Given the town's small size, walking is a popular way to get around Camden. It's a leisurely way to take in the picturesque views of the town and harbor.
Bicycle
For those who prefer a more active mode of transport, bicycles are available for rent in Camden. It's a quick and eco-friendly way to get around town, and with the town's well-maintained bike paths, it's a safe and enjoyable option for visitors.
15 Spending The Perfect Day In Camden, Maine
Begin the day in Camden with a hearty breakfast at Marriner’s Restaurant. Next, head to Camden Hills State Park, where one can explore the trails and enjoy panoramic views of the town. Then, embark on a sailing adventure on Penobscot Bay before a leisurely lunch at a waterfront restaurant.
Spend the afternoon at the Camden Public Library, admiring its beautiful architecture and gardens. Later, stroll along the Camden Harbour and shop for unique souvenirs. End the day with a delectable dinner at Natalie’s Restaurant, followed by a relaxing evening of drinks at the Vintage Room.