Wigwams Camp

June 27, 2021

Wigwams Camp

Matty, Ryan and I spent the weekend exploring Downeast Maine, first hiking in the Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land and then glamping at Wigwams Camp.

We planned to hike Tunk Mountain and made it 0.8 miles to Mud Pond, but as we looked across the pond at Tunk Mountain we realized it was covered in low hanging clouds. Lack of visibility combined with a high likelihood that the steep trail would be wet factored into our decision to turn around.

We drove to Wigwams Camp after hiking. The historic Machias River camp is owned by the Downeast Salmon Federation and available for use by donation.

Getting to the camp was an adventure in itself as it required driving several miles of dirt roads running through blueberry fields, utilizing a hand drawn map and ensuring that you didn't turn onto the wrong road. We hiked 1/4 mile to the cabin as we didn't feel our SUV had enough clearance for the final stretch of road.

The cabin itself is rustic but well equipped. It consists of 3 rooms, two of which have beds (they are in the process of swapping out mattresses so only one bed had a mattress). There is a large living room/kitchen with a wood stove, couch, several chairs, a kitchen table and a smaller table. The kitchen has a gas stove and was stocked with pots, pans, paper towels and plates, and other supplies. There is a screened porch overlooking the river with a barbeque and additional chairs. There is even a set of horseshoes for playing in the yard.

Outside, there is a water pump, outdoor shower, three picnic tables and a fire ring. The pit toilet outhouse is located a short distance away.

We had cell service where we parked but no service by the cabin.

This was a great place to stay. We regretted not bringing fishing poles or water shoes as swimming and fishing would have been fun. There were wild blueberries growing near the river. The sound of the river provided a natural noise machine throughout the night.