At Camp
Things to do at Camp DeForest
The Lodge
Our spacious lobby and sitting area offer a space to relax over a coffee and a warm blueberry muffin in the morning or a game of cribbage in the afternoon. An inviting camp store offers one-of-a-kind Maine souvenirs and keepsakes, as well as light snacks, beer, wine and soft drinks.
Rain? Snow? We’ve got great indoor options for less-than-sunny weather, including board games and puzzles, DIY crafts, and vintage movie screenings on select evenings—or practice your knot-tying skills.
PRO CAMPER TIP: KNOT TYING
Practice these knots during downtime, and you’ll be the hero of the next campfire challenge! Want to show off your skills? Ask a Camp Counselor about our Knot Tying Badge.
The Library
Peruse our collection of books about New England, Maine, Ducktrap Harbor and the surrounding area. You’re welcome to read in the library or borrow books for use in your room — just leave them behind at checkout, please!
Want to take your book home? Our gift shop also regularly stocks books that you can purchase for your own library!
Lawn Games
All guests are welcome to use the horseshoe pits, cornhole boards and croquet sets. See the camp registration desk for equipment. Please play nice, and take turns with other guests!
Campfires
In the evenings, our six campfires offer space to gather with family and friends while roasting marshmallows and telling ghost stories. Grab a s’mores kit at the Lodge and try out Camp DeForest, The Card Game, a fast paced race to toast the most marshmallows before your friends betray you and sabotage your camp!
PRO CAMPER TIP: S’MORES
The Melt Factor: Hold your s’more near the campfire for a few seconds to soften the chocolate without burning your fingers.
Flavored Marshmallows: Try vanilla, caramel, or even chocolate marshmallows for a fun twist!
Upgrade Your Crackers: Swap graham crackers for cookies like chocolate chip or gingersnaps for a gourmet touch.
The Great Outdoors
When you’re ready to enjoy some time outside, we have kayaks, snowshoes, beach towels and yoga mats for rent and loan. Just stop by the front desk—our camp counselors will be ready to help!
Kayaks: During the summer and early fall, kayaks are available for rent. Rental includes a life jacket and paddle! You’ll need to sign a waiver and promise to wear your life jacket!
Snowshoes: During winter months, snowshoes are available for rent from the front desk! You’ll need to sign a waiver for these too!
Yoga Mats: Need a post-hike stretch? You can check-out a yoga mat from the Lodge and take it back to your room for your entire stay!
Nearby
Things to do in MidCoast Maine
Take a Lighthouse Tour
Maine is home to 65 lighthouses and many of them are right in MidCoast, a short drive away.
The Owls Head Light Station sits atop a majestic bluff overlooking Penobscot Bay in a state park near the entrance to Rockland Harbor. The grounds are open daily, year-round, with panoramic views of the bay, islands, and marine traffic.
Curtis Island Light is in Camden Harbor on Curtis Island. You need a boat to access the island and its public park, but you can view the harbor and the lighthouse from the Curtis Island Overlook in Camden.
Grindle Point Lighthouse is on the island of Isleboro and can be accessed by a 20-minute ferry ride in July and August. The lightkeeper’s house has been converted to a small museum of nautical history.
The Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, built in 1902, sits at the South end of a nearly 1-mile breakwater. This working lighthouse is open for tours during the summer — just walk across the granite breakwater when the weather permits.
TAKE THE FERRY TO an island
From Lincolnville Beach, take a 20-minute ride on the Margaret Chase Smith ferry to the historic villages and summer colonies on the island of Islesboro. You’ll discover easy hikes along the coast and through the marshes, beautiful ocean views, rocky beaches, quaint markets where you can grab a picnic lunch, and many artists’ studios and galleries.
From the Downtown Rockland Ferry Terminal, catch a boat to the islands of Matinicus, North Haven, or Vinalhaven. Matinicus, 20 miles off Rockland, is the farthest inhabited land off the east coast in the U.S. It is only about 2 miles by 1 mile, making the rustic community easy to explore on foot or on a rental bike. Northhaven and Vinalhaven, which are connected by a thoroughfare, are 12 miles off shore. They are home to quirky galleries, shops, a historical museum, working boatyards and fishing fleets, and protected land with a network of trails. On Vinalhaven, which was once a major source of granite, take a dip in one of two quarries, now filled with fresh, crystal-clear water.
Take a Hike
Camden Hills State Park offers a network of wooded trails ranging from easy to moderate. The harder trails rise above the forest floor to lookout spots on rocky ledges, and summit some of the area’s gentle peaks. These trails are perfect for hiking in the spring, summer, and fall, and snowshoeing in the winter.
The Megunticook Trail leads to the peak of Mount Megunticook, passing by some of the park’s most scenic views and ending with sweeping views of the entirety of Penobscot Bay. From here you can see to Acadia National Park in one direction, and on a clear day, Mount Washington in New Hampshire in the other.
The Mount Battie Trail is a moderately challenging half-mile climb to the summit of Mount Battie where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the boats coming and going in Camden Harbor. Feeling low-key? For a daily use fee, you can also drive the auto road to the summit — we won’t tell.
See a Show
MidCoast Maine is home to Rockland’s Strand Theater, Flagship Premium Cinemas in Thomaston, the Camden Opera House, Rockport’s Bay Chamber Concerts, Everyman Repertory Theater, Down East Singers, and Rockport Opera House. Every September, these towns co-host the Camden International Film Festival. Year-round, there’s tons to see at the performing arts venues and theaters nearby!
PHOTOGRAPH A WINDJAMMER – or sail on one
Windjammers (or “tall ships”) are antique schooners with multiple masts. In Camden and Rockland harbors, many of these onetime commercial ships have been converted for leisurely sails along Maine’s midcoast, but even from the shore the windjammers’ soaring wooden masts—rigged with ropes, pulleys, and canvas sails—are a striking sight against the bright blue of the sky and the deep green of the Atlantic Ocean.
Visit a Museum
MidCoast’s small museums offer a unique view into Maine’s past. The Owls Head Transportation Museum in Owls Head displays antique vehicles, aircraft, and transportation technology from before 1940. The Sail, Power, and Steam Museum in Rockland is home to a unique collection of marine photographs, exhibits, and artifacts. And the Maine Lighthouse Museum in Rockland educates visitors about the traditions of America’s lighthouses and the history of the U.S. Coast Guard.
If art is more your speed, the Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland has a nationally recognized collection of artwork, including a large set of works by N.C., Andrew, and Jamie Wyeth. A short walk away, the Center for Maine Contemporary Art displays modern artwork in a striking building with a public courtyard and gift shop.
Play a Round of Golf
Coastal Maine’s golf courses are hidden gems, with a friendly and welcoming attitude, beautifully maintained courses, and stunning mountain and ocean views. Public courses like The Rockland Golf Club and Goose River Golf Club offer modest greens fees and are accessible to all ages and abilities, while the 120-year old Samoset Resort offers a luxury experience that has been called “the Pebble Beach of the East.”
WALK THE ARMISTICE BRIDGE IN BELFAST
The historic Armistice Bridge spans the Passagassawakeag River in downtown Belfast. Built in 1921 as a memorial to World War I veterans, the bridge originally carriedRoute 1 traffic. Today it’s for pedestrians only, with picturesque views of Belfast Harbor, serene fishing spots, and benches to linger a while. After your walk, visit Perry’s Nut House for home made fudge, candy, and ice cream.
EAT A LOBSTER FRESH OUT OF PENOBSCOT BAY
All Maine lobsters are wild caught in the cold water just off-shore — most by fishing families who captain their own boats and haul their own traps. Whether you like your lobster chilled in a roll with mayo or steaming and dipped in drawn butter, there’s never a bad time of year to enjoy this treat straight from one of the shacks or lobster pounds that line Route 1 all along the midcoast.
Shuck your own oysters
Maine’s midcoast is known for its world class oyster farms and the pristine, briny oysters that the region’s rivers and estuaries produce. Most farms will sell you a dozen straight from the source, along with helpful tips on how to shuck your own. Try Weskeag Oyster Company in South Thomaston (about 40 beautiful minutes away from Camp). Take them to Oyster River Wine Growers, just a skip away from there in Warren (open summer weekends), for a sublime, only-in-coastal-Maine picnic.
HUNT FOR SEA GLASS IN BAYSIDE
Just south of Belfast, the village of Bayside is a classic 19th century coastal Maine cottage community, where small, seasonal Victorian homes grace the scenic waterfront, and Maine’s largest Gilded Age Mansion, Oak Hall, sits atop the bluff. The peaceful town has several oceanfront parks and a town wharf where you can picnic, swim, or paddle a kayak along the shore. Keep an eye out for colorful tide tumbled glass on the pebbled beaches.
Dining
Diing in MidCoast Maine
-
American Flatbread*
Wood-fired pizzas with organic ingredients and free-range meats.399 Commercial Street
Rockport, ME 04856
(207) 706-4146americanflatbread.com/locations/rockport-me
19 minute drive
$$--
Fon’s Kitchen
Thai restaurant offering familiar noodle dishes and curries, along with wine, beer, and cocktails.
132 High St., Belfast, Me. 04915
(207) 218-1007
18 minute drive
$$-$$$--
Lobster Pound Restaurant*
Family-friendly casual seafood spot on the waterfront with indoor and outdoor dining.2521 Atlantic Hwy.
U.S. Route 1
Lincolnville, ME 04849
(207) 789-55504 minute drive
$$-$$$--
Long Grain
Intimate eatery serving Thai fare such as curry, stir-fries and housemade noodles.20 Washington Street
Camden, ME 04843
(207) 236-900115 minute drive
$$-$$$--
Mosaic*
Small bistro serving fresh, local Mexican-inspired dishes.31 Elm Street
Camden, ME 04843
(207) 230-838014 minute drive
$$-$$$--
Nautilus Seafood & Bar*
Comfy, waterfront bar and restaurant serving seafood and steak dishes with local beers on tap.3 Main Street
Belfast, ME 04915
(207) 218-421820 minute drive
$$-$$$--
Waterfront Restaurant*
Traditional seafood dishes with a twist at this family-friendly restaurant and bar.48 Bay View Street
Camden, ME 04843
(207) 236-374714 minute drive
$$-$$$
--Whale's Tooth Pub
Year-round oceanfront gastropub with classic New England cuisine and craft cocktails.2531 Atlantic Hwy.
U.S. Route 1
Lincolnville, ME 04849
(207) 789-52004 minute drive
$$-$$$ -
18 Central Oyster Bar and Grill
Casual fine dining with a wood-fired grill and raw bar.18 Central Street
Rockport, ME 04856
(207) 466-905518 minute drive
$$$-$$$$--
40 Paper
Intimate, contemporary bistro and bar serving homemade, traditional Italian plates.40 Washington Street
Camden, ME 04843
(207) 230-011113 minute drive
$$-$$$--
Aster & Rose
Quaint fine dining focused on locally sourced food in a beautiful colonial farmhouse setting.581 Youngtown Road
Lincolnville, ME 04849
(207) 763-429010 minute drive
$$$$--
Franny’s Bistro
Cozy French-inspired bistro focused on seafood with a twist.55 Chestnut Street
Camden, ME 04843
(207) 230-819914 minute drive
$$-$$$--
Natalie’s
Fine dining on Camden Harbor serving contemporary American cuisine.83 Bay View Street
Camden, ME 04843
(207) 236-700815 minute drive
$$$$--
Nina June
Seasonal Mediterranean-inspired fine dining harborside in Rockport.24 Central Street
Rockport, ME 04856
(207) 236-888018 minute drive
$$$$--
Primo
Nationally award-winning farm-to-table Mediterranean & Italian inspired dishes.2 Main Street
Rockland, ME 04841
(207) 596-077035 minute drive
$$$$--
Salt Wharf
Harborside dining with a rooftop deck featuring a seasonal menu.3 Wayfarer Drive
Camden, ME 04843
(207) 230-802514 minute drive
$$-$$$--
Satori
Sushi bar and japanese fine dining with exceptional craft cocktails.
108 Main St, Belfast, ME 04915
207.218.1563
satoribelfast.com
18 minute drive
$$-$$$ -
Cuzzy’s Restaurant
Tavern serving pizza and hearty American fare alongside beer and wine.21 Bay View Street
Camden, ME 04843
(207) 236-327214 minute drive
$$-$$$--
Darby’s Pub
Quaint, family-friendly tavern with a broad-ranging menu of upscale pub fare.155 High Street
Belfast, ME 04915
(207) 338-233918 minute drive
$$--
La Cave
Jazz bar and bistro serving French fusion and boasting late-night hours.7 Public Landing
Camden, ME 04843
(207) 230-881814 minute drive
$$-$$$--
Vintage Room
Hotel 16 Bay View’s cozy and elegant lobby bar and small plates restaurant.16 Bay View Street
Camden, ME 04843
(207) 706-799011 minute drive
$$-$$$ -
Bagel Cafe*
Fresh bagels, made-to-order sandwiches, and salads to eat in or take out.25 Mechanic Street
Camden, ME 04843
(207) 236-266114 minute drive
$--
Dot’s Market*
Cafe and bakery serving breakfast, sandwiches, soups, wine and cheeses to eat in or take out.2457 Atlantic Highway
Lincolnville, ME 04849
(207) 706-79225 minute drive
$$-$$$--
Camden Deli*
Sandwiches, soups & salads in a relaxed spot. Eat in or take out.37 Main Street
Camden, ME 04843
(207) 236-834313 minute drive
$$-$$$--
Owen’s General Store*
Specialty food market serving sandwiches and pizza.269 Main Street
Lincolnville, ME 04849
(207) 763-441111 minute drive
$$-$$$--
Traci’s Diner*
Family-owned and operated restaurant serving traditional diner fare.57 Main Street
Belfast, ME 04915
(207) 338-662619 minute drive
$
