Come North this summer and experience a true Maine tradition; Sporting Camps.

The heritage of Aroostook County sporting camps has been a tradition for avid and novice sportsmen exploring the beauty of the northern Maine woods while seeking an escape from city life. Year after year, outdoor enthusiasts make the trek to The County, and for a good reason, people have been captivated for centuries by the vast wilderness.

Former President Theodore Roosevelt spent a considerable amount of time exploring the region now known as Katahdin Woods and Waterways National Monument and Island Falls. Accompanied by an experienced guide, the pair sought accommodations in remote sporting camps and lodges tucked away in the woods; it is here that Roosevelt credits his transformation from a “thin pale youngster with bad eyes and a weak heart” to the solid Rough Rider he later became.

Sporting camps are part of the rich history of Aroostook County and have come a long way since Roosevelt’s first visit. Most still maintain the original rustic charm of yesteryear but now offer modern amenities that range from electricity, running water, plush bedding, homestyle meal service, housekeeping, and some boast satellite tv!

Come North and venture to remote locations like the Fish River Lakes Region in the Crown of Maine. Experience the thrill of the hunt, excitement of the catch, or quiet solitude enjoyed by the explorers of Aroostook’s past.

Where to stay?

There are many options to consider when selecting your ideal sporting camp. Some prefer privacy and solitude, while others seek a communal experience with a shared mess hall.

Whether you are fly fishing the mighty Allagash River, casting a line in a quiet spot, meandering along hiking trails with a camera, hunting for wild turkey, whitetail deer, Canadian geese, or you’ve won a spot in the moose lottery, you will want to make sure the sporting camp you choose is the right place for your adventure.

Chandler Lake Camps and Lodge is located in the shadows of Chandler Mountain and is one of the oldest sporting camps in Maine. The location offers great lake fishing, but many prefer exploring the streams for native brook trout or a guided experience to arctic char that are found only in the coldest waters of the North Maine Woods.

The town of Allagash borders 3.2 million acres of the North Maine Woods and is a quiet escape known for the historic river that passes. Tylor Kellys Camps offers trailside services to all while guests enjoy riverfront cabins - talk about staying close to your fishing spot! The menu treats guests to freshly baked goodies and hearty meals to fuel your day's adventure.

Tucked away at Umcolcus Sporting Camps is Spaulding Lake Outfitters, a rustic sporting camp that offers semi, fully-guided, or go-it-alone packages, overnight accommodations in cozy log cabins, and generous-sized home-cooked meals each day.

The Registered Maine Guides at Libby Camps are seasoned experts who scout the ideal locations for your spring fishing, and when the day is done, the cozy cabins and generous-sized meal portions will hit the spot. The sunsets over Millinocket lake light the sky on fire!

In the remote Deboulie Public Reserved Land, Red River Camps offers rustic Maine cabin rentals with full meal service or “European Style” packages. Here you can rent the historic Island Cabin, located on a remote island a quarter-mile from the mainland. The first month after ice-out is the best for Arctic Char in this area. Don’t miss a hike into the historic Deboulie fire tower!

Our ability to enjoy the wilderness of Northern Maine is a gift and a tradition for many; remember to respect the wildlife and follow the guidelines and safety tips from the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife.

If fishing and hunting are not your thing, make the trip for other unforgettable experiences like scenic plane rides, amazing views on a hike, campfires along the water’s edge, lazy river floats, kayak paddles, and more. Step back in time and visit a sporting camp in the Crown of Maine! Book your summer reservations now.

Unplug from the daily grind, slow down, and come north to surround yourself with the magic of Aroostook County.

We have mapped the very best of Aroostook County's spring paddles and hikes here on the Maine Trail Finder.