LOCAL ATTRACTIONS
Whether you're looking to relax, explore, or get a taste of Maine’s rugged charm, there’s no shortage of local gems near Camp Pepperwood. From sandy beaches and farm stands to breweries, antique shops, and scenic trails, here are some of our favorite spots within a short drive of Lyman to help you make the most of your visit.
NATURE
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NATURE 〰️
Kennebunkport
A peaceful, family-friendly beach with soft sand and gentle surf—ideal for long walks and shell collecting.
Wells
Boardwalk trails wind through salt marshes and woods with scenic views and great birdwatching opportunities.
Wells
Miles of trails through meadows, forests, and estuaries; also home to seasonal festivals and environmental programs.
Portland
Step aboard an authentic historic schooner for a tour of Casco Bay with Portland Schooner Co. Departing from the Old Port, these sailboat excursions offer breathtaking views of islands, lighthouses, and wildlife.
Saco
A quiet spot for swimming and walking among sand dunes and rare tupelo trees.
Boothbay
A stunning 300-acre garden with trails, native plants, a whimsical fairy house village, and five Thomas Dambo troll sculptures.
FOOD & BEVERAGE
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FOOD & BEVERAGE 〰️
Arundel
Locally sourced, globally inspired bistro & bar in a renovated barn specializes in organic global fare, with many vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Biddeford
One of the oldest diners in Maine, housed in a tiny 1920s railcar. Expect lines and crave-worthy breakfast sandwiches and burgers served with a side of retro charm in this James Beard-nominated diner.
CASH ONLY (there’s an ATM on-site)
Portland + Arundel
Made with Maine potatoes, these cult-favorite donuts come in flavors like dark chocolate sea salt and lemon.
Kennebunkport
A beloved, no-frills seafood spot that’s been serving fresh lobster, chowder, and blueberry pie since the 1950s. Cozy, classic, and often bustling, it’s a favorite of locals, tourists, and even a few U.S. presidents. On a really lucky day, you might spot Patrick Dempsey, Dr. McDreamy himself.
Kennebunk
A stylish wine bar and bottle shop in downtown Kennebunk offering a curated selection of natural and small-production wines in an inviting, light-filled space. Known for its tasting events, friendly vibe, and community pop-ups - including a few hosted by Betty - it’s a local favorite for wine lovers and curious sippers alike.
Portland
A warm, stylish eatery serving vibrant Southwestern-inspired dishes with a Maine twist. Ocotillo’s wood-fired plates, creative cocktails, and thoughtfully sourced ingredients make it a standout for a cozy dinner or lively brunch.
KID FRIENDLY
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KID FRIENDLY 〰️
Kennebunkport
Ride historic trolleys and explore transportation history at this hands-on, open-air museum.
Old Orchard Beach
Classic beachfront amusement park with rides, games, greasy snackbars and a lively boardwalk vibe. Think Maine’s Jersey Shore.
Portland
Interactive exhibits, a makerspace, and a play theater make this a creative wonderland for young minds.
Freeport
A glacially formed sand dune in the middle of the forest—complete with camels, a museum, and mini golf.
Portland
The last remaining maritime signal tower in the U.S.—climb to the top for a sweeping view of the harbor.
Portland
A quirky museum dedicated to Bigfoot, lake monsters, and other mysterious creatures of legend.
LIGHTHOUSES
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LIGHTHOUSES 〰️
Cape Elizabeth
Maine’s oldest and most iconic lighthouse, commissioned by George Washington in 1791. Set in Fort Williams Park, it offers stunning ocean views, a small museum, and scenic walking paths.
York
Perched on a rocky island just off the coast, this postcard-perfect lighthouse is one of the most photographed in New England. While not open to the public, it's easily viewed from Sohier Park.
Biddeford Pool
Accessible by boat tour, this charming lighthouse sits at the mouth of the Saco River and offers guided visits in summer. It has a storied past tied to both maritime rescue and local lore.
South Portland
A small, ornate lighthouse set in Bug Light Park with a view of Portland’s harbor. Great for picnics, kite flying, and watching boats pass by.
Kennebunkport
Located at the entrance to Cape Porpoise Harbor, this lighthouse is best viewed by kayak, boat, or from nearby land. It’s still active and maintained by the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust.
South Portland
This "spark plug" style lighthouse is connected to land via a granite breakwater you can walk out on - perfect for adventurous lighthouse lovers and photographers.
SHOPPING
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SHOPPING 〰️
Freeport
Home to L.L.Bean’s flagship store and dozens of outlet shops. The Bean is open 24/7 and a gear shopper’s paradise.
Portland
Old Port’s cobblestone streets are lined with an eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops - perfect for discovering Maine-made goods, vintage finds, and stylish homewares.
Arundel
A huge antique mall offering everything from vintage tools to mid-century treasures. Check out the flea market across the street, but be sure to get there early!
Kennebunk
An enchanting spot for rare plants, topiaries, home décor, and gifts with a cultivated coastal feel.
Portsmouth, NH
Portsmouth’s downtown is packed with independent boutiques, bookstores, and curated gift shops nestled among historic brick buildings.
Kennebunkport
Kennebunkport’s charming Dock Square is a haven for coastal-inspired shopping, with boutique clothing stores, artisan crafts, fine art galleries, and specialty food shops.