Camp Earnest

Maine pines, camp charm, modern comfort.

United States Camp Earnest donation

Step into a thoughtfully reimagined summer camp experience at Camp Earnest, set in the picturesque pines of MidCoast Maine. This former children's camp now welcomes adult groups, including those with families, offering a charming blend of nostalgic camp vibes and modern comforts. Spread across a wooded hillside, just moments from Penobscot Bay, Camp Earnest provides a unique setting for meaningful gatherings, from retreats and reunions to creative workshops. Enjoy flexible indoor and outdoor spaces, including a warm lodge and open-air fire circles, alongside unique amenities like a Cedar Bathhouse with a sauna and hot tub. With diverse lodging options and a year-round creek, it's a refreshing escape.

Highlights

Reimagined 1950s summer camp setting
Cedar Bathhouse with sauna and hot tub
Outdoor amphitheater for acoustic concerts
Diverse lodging: cabins, yurts, bell tents, campsites
Year-round creek on property

Good for

group retreatsfamily-friendly retreatsnature loverscreative workshopswellness escapes

Setting

set in the serene pines of MidCoast Maine, Camp Earnest offers a tranquil escape on a wooded hillside. The atmosphere blends nostalgic summer camp charm with modern comfort, creating an inviting environment just minutes from the scenic Penobscot Bay.

A typical day

The daily rhythm at Camp Earnest varies significantly depending on the specific retreat or group event. Guests can expect a schedule tailored to their program, often including morning sessions, meals, and opportunities to enjoy the camp's amenities and natural surroundings.

Accommodation

Guests can choose from a variety of lodging options, including cozy cabins, unique yurts, three-season bell tents, and traditional camp sites. The property also features 14 luxury cabin rooms, ensuring a comfortable stay for all attendees.

What to bring

Given Maine's climate, pack layers, especially if visiting during cooler months. Even in warmer periods, evenings can be cool. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the wooded grounds and creek.

Website www.campearnest.com

How to get there

Camp Earnest is located just off scenic US Route 1 in Lincolnville, Maine. From Portland, take I-295 north to US-1. From Boston, follow I-95 north to I-295, then connect to US-1 northbound. From Bangor, follow US-1A south to Belfast, then join US-1 southbound.

Nearest airport: Merced Regional Macready Field (MCE) (85 km)

The nearest airports are Portland International Jetport (PWM, approximately 1 hour 45 minutes away), Bangor International Airport (BGR, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes away), and Knox County Regional Airport (RKD, approximately 42 minutes away). From these airports, you would need to arrange a rental car, taxi, or ride-share service to reach the camp.

Nearest city: Merced

Public transport: Concord Coach Lines runs daily services from Boston and Portland to Camden, Belfast, and Lincolnville, with taxis and ride-hailing services available from these stops.

Languages

English

Pricing

Pricing starts from USD39, and the center runs by donation.

Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.

Visit Camp Earnest website

Climate

Climate Zone: Temperate

Best Months: Jun, Jul, Aug

Avoid: Feb, Mar, Nov

MidCoast Maine experiences a varied climate, with an annual average temperature of 13.7°C. The warmest and driest months are typically June, July, and August, making them ideal for outdoor activities. The coolest months are January, February, and March, while February, March, and November tend to be the wettest.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What types of lodging are available at Camp Earnest?

Camp Earnest offers a range of accommodation options, including cabins, yurts, three-season bell tents, and traditional camp sites. There are also 14 luxury cabin rooms available for guests.

Are meals provided during a stay at Camp Earnest?

Attendees staying at Camp Earnest are provided with daily breakfast. Additional meal options are also available and can be arranged.

What unique amenities does Camp Earnest offer?

The camp features a Cedar Bathhouse with a sauna and hot tub, a year-round creek, and an outdoor amphitheater that hosts small acoustic concerts. There are also flexible indoor and outdoor gathering spaces.

Can I bring my children to Camp Earnest?

Yes, Camp Earnest caters to adult groups, some of whom bring their children, making it a family-friendly option for certain retreats.

How do I get to Camp Earnest by public transport?

Concord Coach Lines offers daily services from Boston and Portland to Camden, Belfast, and Lincolnville. Taxis and ride-hailing services are often available from these stops, with the camp being about 5 to 20 minutes away by road.