A Charming One Day in Camden, Maine (9 Best Things to do)

Looking to spend one day in Camden, Maine? This is the right place for you!

Camden, Maine, is one of the most idyllic towns in New England. So, if you are building a New England road trip, add one day in Camden, Maine.

Located 1.5 hours north of Portland, Camden is a perfect day trip or even a stop on your journey to Acadia. We’ve done both–stayed for several days and made it a stop on our way to Acadia National Park. 

My friend, Rebecca from Fab 5 Family Travel, is here to share why one day in Camden, Maine is a must-do visit. 

Let’s jump in!

1. Hike in Camden Hills State Park

Hiking in Camden is a favorite activity of many visitors. Camden Hills State Park offers trails that range from easy to moderate for hikes in Camden. A couple of the best trails are the Adams Lookout Trail and Bald Rock Trail. 

For a more strenuous hike in Camden, try the Jack Williams Trail and get some beautiful scenic views. 

Mount Battie is the crown jewel of this state park. You will want to visit on a clear day to maximize your experience and enjoy a scenic view of Camden. Mount Battie is accessible to all. You can hike the 2.7-mile round-trip route or drive to the top. Grab lunch beforehand and have a picnic!

Besides hiking, you can bike on some of the trails. In the winter months, the park allows snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. 

To explore the outdoors, check out the beautiful town of Millinocket, Maine, which offers access to Mount Katahdin. 

2. Explore Megunticook Lake & Barrett’s Cove

Located 5 miles outside Camden, Megunticook Lake is a nice escape for avid outdoors people. 

You can choose between fishing, kayaking, or swimming. If traveling with little kids, there are easy entry points at Barrett’s Cove for little ones to enjoy the water. 

Lastly, Megunticook Lake provides plenty of public parking. 

3. Walk the Historic High Street 

Camden boasts a large number of historic homes and inns. So park the car and start walking to explore the cuteness of Camden, Maine. Many homes reflect New England architecture, and several operate as B & B’s. 

4. Shop in Camden 

You’ve come to the right place if you love a stroll through town. Camden offers locally owned shops and Maine staples such as Sea Bags and Stonewall Kitchen. 

As for local shops, there are so many great options to pop into. Check out Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe to satisfy your sweet tooth or grab a coffee and dessert at Owl and Turtle. 

Stay here for a bit and peruse their bookshop. Pick up a local cookbook to remind you of your time in Camden.

Lastly, Once a Tree offers local art, woodworking, and pottery. Pick up memorable trinkets and souvenirs at the charming The Smiling Cow. 

5. Relax at Camden Harbor Park

Are you looking for a quiet break after all the shopping or hiking? Camden Harbor Park is a nice break from the touristy areas of town.

Designed by the Olstead brothers in the early 1900s, the park bestows gorgeous views of the Harbor. If you’ve been shopping, I would pick up lunch or a snack and take a break here. 

6. Take a Boat Tour

Camden’s location on the water offers so many boating opportunities. Book a boat tour to enjoy the open waters.

You can choose from a sailing charter or a sunset cruise. Remember to pack sunscreen, snacks and bring an extra layer of clothing, as it could be chilly. 

7. Visit a Beach

Head North towards the town of Lincolnville for access to a public beach. Lincolnville Beach is a few miles from Camden and a perfect afternoon getaway.

Lincolnville Beach is right off the road and offers beautiful views of Penobscot Bay. The beach is perfect for little ones wading in before it gets deep. In addition, you can fish or kayak at the beach. 

8. Explore Camden’s Lighthouses

The town of Camden is near several lighthouses. Two lighthouses, Curtis Island and Heron Neck, are only accessible by boat. Curtis Island lighthouse is the gateway to Camden’s Harbor and grants beautiful access to the town. 

Breakwater Lighthouse is south of Camden in the town of Rockland. If traveling with kids, this would be a good stop as the walking trail is less than a mile. Owls Head Lighthouse is another excellent option with a short walking trail. 

Marshall Point Lighthouse is famous for the iconic scene in Forrest Gump when Forrest Gump is running across the county. Please note, this lighthouse is a bit further south of Camden–26 miles.

If you want to learn more about Maine’s lighthouse history, go south to Rockland and visit the Maine Lighthouse Museum. 

9. Spend a Winter Day at the Camden Snow Bowl

If you love winter sports and visit Camden from November to March, check out Camden Snow Bowl. You will find one of the few places near Maine’s coast to ski. 

The Camden Snow Bowl offers 15 trails, with many available for night skiing, and it is very inexpensive if visiting for the day. Besides skiing, you can participate in tubing and toboggan rides. 

While visiting, you will want to try out some of the great restaurants in Camden. Due to its proximity to the sea, you’ll experience authentic seafood and local dishes. 

Here are some of the best local eats! 

Natalie’s

For Fine dining options, Natalie’s is one of the best in town. Natalie’s location overlooks Camden’s Harbor granting the diner a cozy atmosphere. In addition, Natalie’s is known for fun cocktails, oysters, and lobster bisque! 

Franny’s Bistro

Franny’s presents an intimate atmosphere, and remember to try one of their best meals, shrimp linguine. 

Fresh & Co

Fresh & Co is a Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice Winner and a delicious dinner spot in Camden. The restaurant and menu are simple, but let that discourage you from stopping here. I recommend the lamb shank or lobster ravioli. 

River Ducks Ice Cream

Grab an ice cream sundae at River Ducks Ice Cream for a sweet treat after dinner. 

If you are coming from Portland or driving back that way, there are many excellent stops for a tasty lobster roll. It is worth your time detaining, especially to Five Islands Lobster Company.

If you are looking to fly, I suggest either flying into Portland or Boston. Choose the airport with the most flight options depending on your home airport. 

Atlanta is our hub and offers many daily flights to Boston and a few to Portland. We’ve flown into both cities and usually pick the destination based on the lowest price and how many vacation days we have. 

If you are looking to save time, fly into Portland. 

Camden, Maine, is 1.5 hours north of Portland and 3.5 hours from Boston. Therefore, you will need a rental car if you fly. 

If you live in New England, hop in the car and head to the coast. Camden is centrally located east of I-95.

Summer is the busiest time to visit Camden due to the warm weather and flood of tourists. 

However, if you have some flexibility, it’s best to spend a day in Camden in early to mid-June. Many New England schools are still in session, so it is less crowded, and the weather is nice.

Fall is a beautiful time to visit as well. If you enjoy the fall foliage, then head to Camden.

You can certainly spend only one day in Camden, Maine. But if you decide to stay a night, there are several great hotels in Camden. 

Camden offers an excellent selection of quaint inns and B&Bs. Here are some of my top recommendations. 

Blackberry Inn

A charming Victorian-style B&B centrally located in Camden, Blackberry Inn is a great choice. Beautifully designed rooms come with private baths; some even offer a kitchenette. 

Every morning,  breakfast is provided, and you will even see vegetarian selections. After you’ve spent the day exploring Camden, unwind in the garden. If you visit in the summer, check out the black and raspberry patches. 

Camden Maine Stay Inn

Camden Maine Stay Inn is perfect for travelers who prefer a boutique B&B. Located just a .5 miles from the harbor and a short walk within various dining options, this locally owned inn will make your stay comfortable!

Elms of Camden

For a cozy inn, Elms of Camden is your place. Located a few blocks from the town center, you are close enough to walk but also a quiet retreat away.

Rooms come designed with private bathrooms. Some even have fireplaces. The extensive breakfast is the best perk of this inn. 

Finally, if Camden is a stop on your way to Bar Harbor and you prefer luxury accommodations, check out the top luxury hotels in Bar Harbor, Maine.

Camden is, without a doubt, worth visiting. Several years ago, my aunt, who lives outside of Boston, suggested our family meet here for several days. I didn’t know what to think, but I trusted her advice and am glad I did!

Camden is incredibly charming and a hidden gem on Maine’s coast. Unfortunately, people make a beeline for Acadia and miss out on a truly wonderful place.

Choosing between Camden and Bar Harbor can be challenging, depending on your preference. 

Camden is quieter and smaller than Bar Harbor. For a peaceful and relaxing retreat, then Camden is the place for you!

Bar Harbor is busier, especially in peak summer, as it is the gateway to Acadia National Park. For days of shopping and eating, and if you don’t mind large crowds, then Bar Harbor may be a better fit for you. 

Personally, I prefer Camden over Bar Harbor due to fewer crowds and tourists. 

Camden offers a little something for every type of visitor. For foodies, seize the opportunity for local cuisine. Check out state parks or a sailing trip for the love of the outdoors. 

Camden is a town worth a quick stop while exploring Maine. Many visitors hop on I-95 out of Portland or Boston and head straight to Acadia. Build an extra day to see this quaint town–you will never regret the detour! 

Ready to head to Maine? Check out these resources! 

Author Bio: Rebecca is the creator and writer at Fab 5 Family Travel. Rebecca loves traveling with her three kids and husband when she’s not teaching her high school history classes. In particular, Maine is one of her favorite states in the US, and she can’t wait for her next trip. Check out her website for more ideas on what to do in Maine with and without kids.

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