ABOUT US
A desert in Maine?
Well, not exactly. The sand at the Desert is a large glacial depository created over 10,000 years ago during the last ice age. The sand was covered by a forest until the 1800s when the Tuttle family started farming the land and caused the soil to erode, exposing the dunes underneath.
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The land sat abandoned until 1926, when it became one of Maine’s earliest roadside attractions, drawing people from all over the world. Today, nearly 100 years later, it is still one of Maine’s most beloved and iconic destinations, a place where visitors can explore, play, and learn about the history, geology, and ecology of this unique landscape.
Photo by Mike Ianetta
While You're Here...
Explore the Desert
General admission to the Desert of Maine includes access to the dunes, walking paths, and all exhibits and features, including our 1800s Farmhouse, Gemstone Village, Fossil Dig, and our electric train. While a stay in the campground does not include access to the desert, campground guests can enjoy a 15% discount on admission during our operating hours!
Mini Golf
While you're here, stop by the mini golf course at the Desert of Maine and enjoy a round or two of putt putt! Our mini golf course was a recent addition to our offerings and is fun, challenging, and designed after the history of the Desert of Maine. Campground guests receive 15% off mini golf tickets.
Oasis Snack Bar
Our classic snack bar serves grilled hot dogs and kielbasa, refreshing beverages, scooped ice cream, baked goods, and other snacks. The Oasis is open daily. Stop by for refreshments or grab some dessert for your evening campfire!
Goodies and Gifts
Check out the small selection of campground merchandise in the camp store, or stop by the Welcome Center in our main parking lot to see our full gift shop! Stock up on lots of merch, gifts, and more!
ABOUT OUR AREA
Photo by Mike Ianetta
Freeport Area
We are located just a couple minutes from the shops, restaurants, and breweries in downtown Freeport. In just a few short minutes, you can get from the wooded campground to the ocean.​
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Shops in downtown Freeport
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Wolfe's Neck Center
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L.L. Bean Flagship Store
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Winslow Park
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Bradbury Mountain State Park​
Portland Area
Portland offers a lot of opportunities to discover amazing restaurants, shops, scenic views, and cultural or historical experiences. It's a convenient 25 minute drive from the Desert of Maine! ​
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Explore the food scene in Portland
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Shop in the Old Port
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Visit Portland Head Light
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Portland Museum of Art
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Portland Children's Museum and Theater
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Take a day trip to Peak's Island
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Crescent Beach, Willard Beach, Scarborough Beach
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Walk around Mackworth Island​
Beyond
The beautiful Maine coast stretches up and down on both sides of us. Inland, you can find some small mountains and lakes. There is plenty to do nearby.
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Popham Beach State Park
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Rockland and Camden
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Sebago Lake
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Pineland Farms
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Gray Wildlife Park​​
