Desert of Maine

4.5(1.2K)google

4.5(23)yelp

Adult $21·Student $17·Youth(4-18y) $17·Infant(under 3) FreeUSD(The above is the general admission Dunes Pass. The on-site 18-hole mini-golf requires an extra fee ($13 for adults); a Combo Ticket is available at $32 for adults. Active military and seniors (65+) receive a 10% discount.)

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Overview

The Desert of Maine is a natural curiosity and privately owned tourist attraction whose main feature is a 20-acre (8.1 ha) expanse of barren glacial sand in the town of Freeport, Maine, United States. The area was de‑vegetated by poor farming practices in the 19th century.

Practical Info

95 Desert Rd, Freeport, ME 04032, USA

Mon10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Tue10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Wed10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Thu10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Fri9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Sat9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Sun9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Suggested Duration1.5-2.5 hours

Best TimeThis quirky geological wonder is open seasonally from mid-May through mid-October. The ultimate time to visit is a warm summer evening in July or August after 4:30 PM. The low-angled sun casts deep, dramatic shadow contours across the 40 acres of glacial silt silt sand dunes, mimicking the Sahara Desert while sparing you from the intense overhead mid-day heat on the exposed walking trails.

Getting ThereConveniently located in Freeport, Maine. Driving from Portland takes just 20 minutes via I-95 North to Exit 20 (Freeport/US-1); merge onto Desert Road and follow it for 2 miles straight to the property at 95 Desert Road, which features massive free parking. Alternatively, take the Amtrak Downeaster train to Freeport Station, and hire a local taxi or rideshare for the brief 5-minute trip westward.

(207) 250-2550

desertofmaine.com/

Travel Tips

This privately operated geological park opens strictly from May through mid-October; solar glare bouncing off the exposed glacial silt dunes triggers intense UV radiation, making wrap-around polarized sunglasses mandatory to prevent eye strain.
Despite its desert nomenclature, the fine glacial silt possesses heavy moisture-retention and abrasive properties; barefoot trekking or mesh running shoes are non-viable as sand packing blisters skin, dictating sealed hiking boots.

Photo Tips

Photo Rules

Park bylaws enforce an absolute drone ban over the dune fields; additionally, the fragile surrounding pine barrens and dry silt basin enforce a zero-tolerance smoking and open-flame restriction to eliminate wildfire hazards.

Reviews

Positive

A vast expanse of natural sand dunes hidden inside a lush green Maine forest creates a shocking visual contrast. A true natural wonder.
The grounds have been beautifully modernized, adding a dino fossil dig, a giant wooden maze, and historic cabins, greatly boosting play fun for kids.
The restrooms are spotless and modern, signage is clear with helpful brochures, staff are warm, and crowd management is orderly.
Excellent location, just a few minutes' drive from Freeport outlets. The dedicated free parking lot is massive, offering flawless convenience.

Heads up

The admission price feels steep compared to the relatively small size of the desert grounds. High ticket costs for a family offer lower value.
On hot summer middays, exposure to the unshaded sand dunes is boiling and stuffy. The sand gets scorching hot, and shaded shelters are lacking.
For purist hikers seeking raw wilderness, the artificial details are too heavy. Dino models and commercial amenities thin the natural peace.
Due to the soft sand terrain, most core dune areas are inaccessible to wheelchairs or strollers, making it tough for elderly guests.