A town with a seafaring soul, Camden wraps up all of Maine’s best bits into one captivating destination. Charming historic downtown? Check. Lighthouse-dotted coastline? Of course. Lobster for every meal? Naturally. All this, plus a mountain-backed landscape to walk – or ski – through, and a packed calendar of culture to fill your days and capture your imagination.
WATER
Camden’s rich maritime history and working harbour make it an ideal destination for any aspiring sailor. Its famous fleet of windjammers – classic wooden ships – aren’t just for show. You can hop aboard for a day sail, gliding past spruce-studded islands and lighthouses. Picture-perfect Curtis Island lighthouse, at the harbour entrance, is one of the most iconic, having guided ships safely home since 1845. In summer, kayaking is a great way to spot seals and nesting osprey. While a lobster boat tour or fishing trip invites you to get hands on with the area’s most delicious sea life.
NATURE
In Camden there’s an outdoor adventure for every season. Camden Hills State Park offers 5,500 miles of prime hiking and biking among wildflowers and waterfalls in summer, and flame-coloured leaves in fall. Head to Barrett’s Cove for freshwater swimming in cool lake water. Come winter, skiing in Camden Snow Bowl means whizzing down slopes with Atlantic Ocean views. If you’re in the state in February, join the fun at the annual US National Toboggan Championships, watching the brave (some might say foolish) competitors race wooden sleds down a 400-foot ice chute.
CULTURE
Brimming with 19th century New England charm, Camden’s historic downtown is beautifully preserved. Spend time strolling its streets and spotting architectural gems like its Public Library and Amphitheatre, and the Victorian Opera House. Both play host to some of Camden’s busy calendar of cultural events, from its International Film Festival to the Shakespeare Festival. August’s Windjammer Festival celebrates the town’s nautical heritage, while Jazz in June kicks off the summer with live music in venues around town.
Forget fine dining. Camden’s seafood shacks are where you’ll find the most mouth-watering, fresh-off-the-boat Maine lobster rolls.
