Camping Cobsook Bay State Park

Camping at Cobscook Bay State Park: Discover Downeast Maine’s Wild Coast

For campers seeking unspoiled wilderness, saltwater serenity, and off-the-beaten-path adventure, Cobscook Bay State Park delivers one of the most dramatic coastal camping experiences in Maine. Tucked away in the state’s Downeast region near Lubec and Eastport, this 888-acre gem is a haven for outdoor lovers, wildlife watchers, and anyone craving a peaceful retreat far from crowds.

Why Camp at Cobscook Bay?

Cobscook Bay (from the Maliseet-Passamaquoddy word for “boiling tides”) is named for its incredibly strong tidal currents, with an average 24-foot rise and fall. These powerful tides create a rich marine ecosystem, drawing bald eagles, seals, and over 200 species of birds. The park’s campsites are nestled in the woods along a rugged, deeply indented shoreline with many offering waterfront views and direct access to the bay.

Reserve your campsite at Cobsook Bay State Park today

Campground Features

  • 106 campsites (many are waterfront or water-view)

  • Vault toilets and hand-pump drinking water

  • Rustic, primitive camping (no showers or hookups)

  • Fire rings and picnic tables at each site

  • Pets welcome

This is true back-to-nature camping, so come prepared for a rustic stay and be rewarded with quiet mornings, campfires under star-filled skies, and fog lifting off the bay at sunrise.

Top Things to Do at Cobscook Bay

  • Tidepooling & Beachcombing – Discover marine life during low tide along the rocky shorelines.

  • Birdwatching – Spot bald eagles, loons, herons, and warblers in one of the richest bird habitats in Maine.

  • Paddling – Explore the bay’s inlets and islands by kayak (but check the tide chart first!).

  • Hiking Trails – Short scenic trails like the Nature Loop Trail offer views, wildflowers, and solitude.

  • Photography – Sunrise over the misty bay is nothing short of magical.

Nearby Attractions

Cobscook Bay’s location puts you close to some of Maine’s most captivating coastal treasures:

  • West Quoddy Head Lighthouse – The easternmost point in the U.S. is only 20 minutes away.

  • Lubec Village – A charming harbor town with galleries, cafés, and a relaxed pace.

  • Roosevelt Campobello International Park – Just across the bridge into Canada (passport required), this historic island offers gardens, hiking trails, and FDR’s summer home.

  • Reversing Falls Park – A local secret where tidal currents create wild whirlpools and rapids.

Where to Eat Nearby

While Cobscook Bay camping leans rustic, you’re not far from great Downeast eats:

  • Uncle Kippy’s (Lubec) – Classic local seafood and hearty breakfasts.

  • Cohill’s Inn Restaurant – Elevated comfort food with harbor views.

  • Eastport Chowder House – Enjoy lobster rolls, fried clams, and chowder on the deck.

When to Visit

  • Late Spring to Early Fall offers the best camping weather.

  • June and September are ideal for fewer bugs and thinner crowds.

  • Always bring layers. The coastal breeze can be brisk even in summer.

Local Tips for First-Time Visitors

  • Bring binoculars for eagle and seal sightings right from your tent.

  • Use tide charts for safe kayaking or clamming.

  • Come with extra water and provisions — services are limited in this remote corner of Maine.

  • Plan a drive on Route 1 Coastal Scenic Byway for a full day of exploration.

Cobscook Bay State Park is raw, remote, and real Maine — the kind of place where tides rule the rhythm of the day and nature provides the entertainment. It’s a hidden coastal sanctuary that rewards visitors with quietude, wildlife, and authentic Downeast magic.

Don’t miss your chance to unplug. Book your site at Cobscook Bay today and fall asleep to the sound of the tides.