Well, not exactly. The sand at the Desert is a large glacial depository created over 10,000 years ago during the last ice age. The sand was covered by a forest until the 1800s when the Tuttle family started farming the land and caused the soil to erode, exposing the dunes underneath. The land sat abandoned until 1926, when it became one of Maine’s earliest roadside attractions, drawing people from all over the world. Today, nearly 100 years later, it is still one of Maine’s most beloved and iconic destinations, a place where visitors can explore, play, and learn about the history, geology, and ecology of this unique landscape. NOTE: The Desert came under new ownership in 2019 and has been undergoing a comprehensive renovation ever since. There are new exhibits like Gemstone Village, Fossil Dig, the Buried Springhouse, a new mini golf course, a self-guided tour with over 30 new interpretive signs, and an authentic 1800s farmhouse museum among others! Visitors can enjoy scoop ice cream, kettle corn, and grilled kielbasa from the new Oasis snack bar. There is also a luxury campground on-site with campsites for tents, small RVs, and new A-Frame cabins!
If you don't have little kids its not worth it.
This is definitely worth a stop. They staff is friendly. We loved taking the tour and hearing about its history. Then we got to walk around a couple of trials. My son enjoyed getting to dig 3 "treasures" out of the sand. We plan on going back one day.
To expensive for what it is. Interesting to see but not worth the price.
We absolutely loved our stay at the Desert of Maine Campground and a whole day in the Desert is hardly enough! The fun exhibits were super hands on for kids and there were tons of well-documented historical weeks scientific signs for the adults. I loved how the whole experience told us the story of the desert. (Definitely watch the video on their website before you go!) The campground was extremely clean with beautifully renovated bathrooms, lots of outdoor games, gorgeous hiking trails, a well stocked camp store and so much peace and tranquility. The new miniature gold is going to be so cool. We'll definitely be returning!!
((Campsite Review))
The staff here are super helpful and friendly. When I asked if we can go in early they texted me right when the spot opened up! As for the sites, they are brand new and the bathroom is ‘hotel quality’
the property was bought by new owners just a couple years ago and they are so clearly making it into a great stop. this is absolutely perfect for if you have little ones, a great stop for the family. and if you like lemonade, you have to try theirs!
A great stop on our Maine vacation. Lots of history here and they have made the park so whimsical with added touch’s. I loved how excited the staff was to tell us about all the upcoming plans for the park.
Loved exploring the dunes and trails, very family friendly. Would have enjoyed with or without kids.
Really cool place to see. My 10 yo loved it.
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Desert of Maine
Hours
- Sun - Sat: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
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Parking
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Pets Allowed
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Restrooms
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Wifi
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Wheelchair Accessible
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Credit Cards Accepted
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Swimming Pool
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Dump Station
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Big Rigs
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Laundry
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Sewer Hookup
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Showers
Campground, Parking
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