This Charming State Park In Maine Offers Campsites Near Its Crystalline, Spring-Fed Lake

Just 19 miles west of Belfast and 26 miles east of Augusta, Lake St. George State Park sits along Maine Route 3 in Liberty, Maine. Nestled on the northwestern shore of the spring-fed, crystal-clear Lake St. George, the underrated park awaits with campsites that brush the shoreline. Picture it: You wake up in a tent, and start the day sipping morning coffee while watching the sun rise over the lake's calm waters. 

Reaching this lakeside sanctuary is easiest by car, with out-of-state travelers typically flying into Augusta State Airport and renting a car to make the half-hour drive — a scenic route that segues into a truly restful escape. Whether you're paddling your way through a series of undeveloped islands or casting a line for salmon and brook trout, there's plenty of adventure waiting for you in this stunning Maine park.

Lake St. George State Park offers 38 campsites for tents and RVs — from grassy wooded plots to shoreline pitches that let you dip your toes steps from your campsite. Facilities shine: Modern comfort stations with hot showers, flush toilets, a dump station, and potable water help deliver that "wilderness without sacrifice" vibe. Fire pits, picnic tables, and a playground only deepen the family-friendly charm. You can even bring pets as long as they're leashed, well-behaved, and under supervision.

During summer, the lifeguard-staffed beach offers safe, refreshing swimming. Day-use visitors can also enjoy volleyball, basketball courts, a sandpit, grills, and picnic shelters — making this a go-to for multigenerational fun. Renting a canoe, kayak or paddleboat opens up peaceful exploration of hidden inlets and quiet coves — highly recommended for an early morning excursion. For more family-friendly lakeside fun, head a couple hours away to Mount Blue, which boasts a nature center and playground areas. After a day of swimming and paddling, head into nearby Liberty for a bite. Pottle's Pub serves hearty comfort food and Maine-brewed beers within its cozy walls while at John's Ice Cream Factory, just minutes from the park, you can get a cone piled high with inventive flavors like espresso anise or after-dinner mint. 

Reservations for campsites fill up fast — particularly for lakeside spots, so book early during summer's peak season. Fall shoulder season is a quieter, equally stunning alternative, with the surrounding hills burning with crimson and gold. Nearby lodging options — like motels, bed and breakfasts, and inns in Belfast or Augusta — offer backup plans if campsites are full.

Bring swimwear, bug repellent, hiking shoes (for the Old Jeep Trail and other nearby paths), and sun protection. And don't forget binoculars; bald eagles and loons are often spotted around the lake. Pro tip: "Buy it where you burn it." Make sure to purchase firewood locally on arrival to help protect Maine's forests. For an added experience, plan a side trip to Camden Hills State Park, just a short drive away — its soaring coastal overlooks make it a must-see complement to your camping escape. Ans if you treasure the mirror-smooth fishing and shoreline campsites at Lake St. George, you won't want to miss Rangeley Lake State Park, another eastern Maine gem promising a fun lakeside adventure.