RV Rental Portland, ME

Maine is a picturesque state with mountains on the horizon and miles upon miles of Atlantic Ocean coast but, despite that, it has one of the lowest percentages of federally-owned public land. Quite simply, there aren’t as many national parks, monuments, preserves or forests, but adventurers and explorers don’t have to worry. Baxter State Park is four hours north of Portland in the very heartland of Maine and is home to Mount Katahdin, which just happens to be the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. The AT, as it’s more colloquially known, spans 14 states and over 2,000 miles— from Georgia to Maine and everywhere in between.

Climb up Mount Katahdin for an amazing view, but be wary, this climb is arduous and takes between eight and 12 hours to finish even for fit hikers. For more casual hiking and all-around walking around the woods, check out the Chimney Pond Trail which traipses through hardwood forest for six miles—out and back with 1,500 feet of elevation gain— and has crisp and clear ponds along the way. Another good trail is the Little and Big Niagara Falls Trail via the Appalachian Trail, which is a much shorter 2.3 miles with only 173 feet of elevation gain and is considered a hidden gem.

For some outdoor recreation closer to Portland, you could rent a paddleboard or kayak from Portland Paddle and cruise along the Portland coast. Don’t know how to paddle? Don't worry, they offer lessons. Rent an RV in Portland, Maine and drive it up along the coast on Route 201, a National Scenic Byway, and have an adventure at the Northern Outdoors Adventure Resort where they’re open all year long and claim to have something for everyone of all ages. Swimming and kayaking may not be an option in the winter but don’t forget about skiing, which you can do at New England Outdoor Center, near Mount Katahdin, where they also have cabins, hot chocolate, and snowmobiles.

At some point, everyone needs a rest, even an RV, and the Portland, Maine area is full of RV parks that can accommodate the Portland RV rental.

The Hid’n Pines Family Campground has water and electric hookups with free WiFi, cable, showers and a laundromat. Another option is the Naples KOA in Naples. Although this place is a bit farther north, it’s still a viable option. The Naples KOA accommodates RVs up to 80 feet long and has full hookups, along with cable and WiFi. There is a pool and a pavilion to relax outside, but it’s also close to beaches and hiking trails for when the mood strikes.

In Scarborough, you can take your Portland rental RV to Wild Duck Campground and RV Park, and in Old Orchard Beach, you could stay at the Wild Acres RV Resort and Campground.

Exploring the City

Finally, Portland has a downtown area that feels like the big city, with delicious restaurants, bars, and shops that all deserve a visit. Don’t be fooled with Portland, it might have delicious seafood, but this foodie town has more to offer than crab cakes and lobster rolls, although those are amazing, too. There are tons of restaurants in Portland and the locals will point you in the right directions.

An RV rental in Portland, ME is the perfect getaway for couples and families looking for great food, people, nightlife and outdoor activities. The other Portland is excellent too, but it’s worth noting that Portland, Oregon got its name from Portland, Maine -- not the other way around.