Within Lobster Lake State Park, Shallow Bay provides both drive-in and boat-in access for campers exploring Maine's North Woods. The Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands manages this forested site along the sandy shores of Lobster Lake, which gets its name from the lake's distinctive lobster claw shape.

The campground accommodates groups of 8-10 people with a large picnic table, separate food prep area, fire ring, and toilet facility. Campers need to bring their own toilet paper and fresh water, as filtering from the lake itself is not recommended. Easy water access makes launching boats or swimming straightforward. Access requires payment of gate fees along the Golden Road plus daily road and camping fees, with costs of $24 per night. For those planning extended stays in the region, campsites near Frenchtown offer additional options.

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Location

Public Campground

Shallow Bay is located in Maine

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

45.83711 N
69.528094 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Group
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Fires

Contact

General Info

Reservations

Drive Time


Reviews

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5.0

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Oct. 30, 2019

Fresh water lobsters? Don't let the name fool you!

This was the first campsite along our Maine North Woods canoe adventure – about 4 miles from the Lobster Launch. It is a gorgeous campsite along the sandy shores of Lobster Lake, with plenty of room for a group of 8-10 people.  It's called Lobster Lake because it's shaped like a lobster claw.  

Has a huge picnic table, separate food prep area, fire ring and toilet (bring your own TP). Bring plenty of fresh water (though you can filter from a stream feeding the lake/river, but we were advised not to use the lake water, even filtered). Very easy access to the water for swimming, hauling gear up, etc. 

Note about costs: Getting here is quite a journey, but ooohh so worth it. It’s on the way to nowhere, you have to pay to get through the gate along the Golden Road, pay a daily road access fee, and daily camping fee. And, then there’s the shuttle for your vehicle. It’s expensive, but if you go with a group and share costs, it’s a treat!  Maybe a once in a lifetime adventure for some people.

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Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Shallow Bay by Shari  G., October 30, 2019
  • Review photo of Shallow Bay by Shari  G., October 30, 2019
  • Review photo of Shallow Bay by Shari  G., October 30, 2019
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Frequently Asked Questions

What permits are required for camping at Lobster Lake?

Camping at Lobster Lake typically requires permits through the North Maine Woods organization or Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands. These permits should be secured before your trip as they're required for overnight stays. Since this area is part of Maine's remote wilderness regions, visitors may also need to register their trip and pay appropriate camping fees. Contact the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands or North Maine Woods for the most current permit requirements and reservation procedures before planning your trip.

Where are the campsites located on Lobster Lake in Maine?

Campsites at Shallow Bay are located along the sandy shores of Lobster Lake, which is uniquely shaped like a lobster claw. The main campsite is approximately 4 miles from the Lobster Launch, making it accessible by canoe or boat. This waterfront location provides gorgeous views of the lake and has ample space to accommodate groups of 8-10 people. The sandy shoreline creates an ideal setting for camping while enjoying the natural beauty of Maine's North Woods.

What activities can you do while camping at Lobster Lake?

Lobster Lake offers numerous outdoor activities for campers. Canoeing and kayaking are popular given the lake's expansive waters and scenic shoreline. Swimming is excellent along the sandy beaches near Shallow Bay campsite. Fishing opportunities abound in the lake's clear waters. Hiking and wildlife observation are also rewarding activities, as the area is part of Maine's North Woods wilderness. Photography enthusiasts will find stunning landscapes to capture, especially during sunrise and sunset over the lake. The remote location also provides exceptional stargazing opportunities on clear nights.