From Mainstream to a Maine Stream: Camping Baxter State Park Part 1

I took a few days away from the cabin to explore the pristine wilderness of Baxter State Park in Maine. One of the few undeveloped expanses of parkland still existing in the US, Baxter is not for everyone, but to a true naturalist, it's a secret paradise. This is Part One of a two-part video.
Book Mentioned in Video:
Braiding Sweetgrass (Amazon Affiliate Link*): amzn.to/3NcFBnY
Music Credit:
Birdseye Blues by Chris Haugen
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[@valeriehancotte-galan4790]

Love that it has no drones, no dogs, no generators....nothing but quiet 🤫

[@jdmather5755]

No drones? Have you seen their mosquitos 🦟.

[@anthonyc1883]

What a concept! :-)

[@GrahamRead101]

Can we all just appreciate the effort it must take on a bumpy road when you just want to reach the end, to keep stopping, setting up the camera, driving past it, collecting the camera and carrying on! Not once but multiple times. As ever, a nice video. Thx

[@judyabernathy80]

Slim, you are humanity’s hero! Instead of shaming us, you always point out how we can do better by offering up suggestions (ie only take what you need, and give back, etc). I am SO glad you have THE BEST channel on KZbin, because I’ve learned so much from you! Oh, and did I mention that I especially enjoy your gentle nature and how lightly you go into the forests never disturbing a thing! Thank you!!♥️🙏🏼♥️

[@Spacecowboy1101]

Great to see you on the road again Slim better than those travel shows on TV

[@erindriffield5643]

Slim thank you for another fantastic video. The content, narration, music, cinematography and editing are second to none. But I have to express my gratitude for how you close out the video. The closing frames or scene are always so exceptionally filmed. The camera perspective is so beautiful and peaceful. Thank you for sharing your adventures and your filming and editing gifts.

[@SarahWRah]

Slim did not mention the other car visible when he first opened his door at Omaha Beach (time stamp 4:07). It does seem like the park should have posted "tent camping only" long before someone made that tedious drive. And I agree that the $13.08 charge is goofy.

[@MsOldschool65]

Mt. Katadyn is the official north end of the Appalachian Trail...nice!

[@lindamorassi4458]

Loved “Braiding Sweetgrass”!

[@philipwinter8729]

Quite an experience Slim. Probably some lessons learned there. Looking forward to the next episode.

[@virichter7214]

I don't know how I missed this one, but here I am a year after you've been to Maine. I'm in NH and would say: you don't want to go to NH/Maine/Vermont in May. As you discovered our mutual state bird the blackfly/mosquito. July/August/Sept would have been absolutely beautiful. I hope some day you'll make your way back to our area at that time of year. Thank you for all your wonderful videos, from a teardrop->aliner camper.

[@paulr.3220]

That road was so rough that I counted 2 times that there was daylight beneath the campers tires. Black flies and mosquitoes can be so maddening it is difficult to appreciate that they are an integral part of the food chain. That wouldn't keep me from cursing their existence though. Baxter is so big and we look forward to part 2.

[@mtadams2009]

No one goes camping in Maine and NH during black fly season. Lesson learned. For those that want a true wilderness experience Baxter is the place.

[@anthonyc1883]

What are the approximate start and end dates of black fly season in the Baxter area?

[@RobertSmith-km6gi]

Myself and a few friends camped at South Branch Pond about 6 years in a row starting on the 2nd week in June for 5 days each outing. I lived in Maine for 35 years and the black flies, deer flies, horse flies, mosquitoes, and every other type of biting insect are just a part of enjoying such a wonderful place from mid spring to early fall. Head nets, deet, and campfires all help. At South Branch we always tried to rent the pond side leantos since there was almost always a good breeze to help with the bugs. The 6 months of winter was another story.

[@prehnite64]

I used to do backwoods hiking while getting my degree in geology. While on several field trips to Virginia, most of my fellow geologists offered real money for the insect repellent I brought - Bens. Kept away the mosquitoes, flies, and especially the ticks. Love your videos! THanks!

[@bearmaine]

I cringed when you turned onto Omaha Beach Rd, I remember the place as a party spot filled with drunken campers. Fall is the best time to enjoy the outdoors up here in Maine as the biting insects have usually subsided by then.

[@volvo09]

Yeah, you never know what a campsite will be like. I've been to campsites that were "super party's" with generators and even a movie projector running (in the most wild and beautiful area) and the next week it's all respectful people.

[@monnarush6531]

Awesome video thanks 💗

[@debralozano6129]

That road a true nightmare. Glad you did find Baxter SP to be peaceful. Thank you for the book review.

[@l214laus]

Your title is a good play on words. Soon bedtime here for me, in a very cold south east Australia. I'll watch this tomorrow, thanks.

[@LTDunltd]

The $13.08 fee reminded me of a place I camped at that charged $13.50 / night. I paid with 2 fives and 3.50 in dimes, nickels and pennies. I think they charge the odd cents to get people to pay upwards to the next whole dollar. Or more.

[@robertziawinski6554]

Good luck Slim on this new adventure! Looking forward to seeing Part 2!

[@1967BlackRose]

Listen to that water's ripple and the Bird's symphony. Love it.

[@karljacques5028]

Hello from United Kingdom I really enjoy all your vids slim and I'm a long time subscriber I rember the A fame camper and the very fist video you made and good morning

[@jasonwilliamson8346]

Good morning slim thank you for the live stream

[@SlimPotatohead]

Morning Jason!

[@dandial3733]

We've run into similar situations across the country. Like you, I shake my head at whoever dreamed up these policies.

[@SlimPotatohead]

The Omaha Beach policies were unfair, but I totally appreciate the Baxter ones. One of the quietest places I ever camped! SP

[@dandial3733]

@@SlimPotatohead I should have clarified, I was referring to the Omaha Beach location.. The strange odd amount for "Self Registration" really makes me wonder what they're thinking. We've seen strange amounts like $12.45 or $17.50...cash only. iMO, they realize you probably won't have change so you'll just over pay. It just occurred to me, maybe this is owned by the state but maintained by a private entity. They turn in the correct amount for camp sites and just pocket the overage. OK, gotta go get my tin foil hat and head out to the big foot convention. LOL

[@maineiacts]

@Dan Dial.. LMAO!! I would say you are 98% CORRECT!!! I thought so right off the bat!! Ideal scam-scheme! I know! I used to live in Maine, hence part of the reason for my handle...live in Iowa now, and what sucks is there is hardly any camping areas that are not too pricey, or too crowded and noisy, or more free wild space get aways! People really need these places to reboot the mental and Spiritual Hard Drives..! Plus the low percentage of refreshing water features here dissappoints , imho...( naturally I feel that way after being born and raised in upper New England Tri-State area.. Miss it much..but not Black Fly Season YIKES!! Poor animals! Take Care! 😉🙋🏻‍♀️🌲🌲🌲

[@ladikmk]

That is my kind of Park - quiet; peaceful with only the occasional buzz of a mosquito taking aim. :) “Braiding Sweetgrass” is such a wonderful book. It’s a fascinating read and Dr. Kimmerer’s storytelling skills and knowledge of indigenous culture, interwoven with botany and modern day science affirm that there are indeed other ways to heal. Another excellent book that is also a part of my personal library is “The Everglades: River of Grass” by Marjory Stoneman Douglas. So many people mistakenly think that the Everglades is just a giant swamp, but in reality it’s a moving river that flows from the North to South In Florida, fed by all the millions of gallons of spring water. Thanks for sharing Slim. Stay well and enjoy your travels.

[@ftkinsella]

Slim, good to see you again. Cheers 😌

[@larzybernard9617]

I lived in Maine for 5 years. After a long winter, you are anxious for spring and it starts with ticks, then black flys, and then on to mosquitoes and throw in some biting horseflys. Fall comes and quiets the mosquitoes but before you know it you are back into winter. It chased me back west. October is great though!

[@bobmanzi7712]

great stuff Slim thanks

[@anitamitchell3452]

So happy there is a part two. Thanks for the book review. Loved the fern with dew drops. Can't stand the bugs!

[@chickadee04287]

Welcome to Maine, Slim! My husband and I have been to Baxter many, many times. Camping during black fly season is horrible so we try to stay home until later in the season, but then there are mosquitos. Black flies can really drive you crazy. It is nice to have a camper to escape into. Looking forward to part 2 of you adventure.

[@grannypeacock1218]

That was the best looking meal I’ve ever seen on your channel. 🎻🥔

[@hsaurid]

This is definitely the type of camping where you are truly roughing it or close to it. Not for everyone, but everyone should experience this at least once in their life so they know what it is like. Good to know the picaridin helped against the blackflies. And, sometimes when things don’t start out that well, one sometimes gets to experience something different and awesome in its own way. Looking forward to part 2. Thank you, Slim!

[@richardthomas1743]

Good morning Slim! That was a shame about the Omaha beach camping that was tents only. I am a few hundred miles from that area and have to say that the black flies are voracious this year I really think that they could eat a person alive! I love the stream where you were at in that last camp site, looking forward to tomorrows video! Thumbs UP to you!

[@havenonwheels5158]

Omaha beach was a great drive to camping spot years ago. No one has maintained that road for at least a decade. Last time I was there we went by canoe from an area upstream.

[@BrassLock]

The power of Social Media is now alerting everyone to such difficulties. But you also have to know which media to watch, and that can require an awful lot of searching the Internet. Some sort of _"aggregating application"_ will eventually be launched I guess, by some enthusiastic Digital Nomad which will allow folk to search across a wide range of categories so they can have the ideal camping 🏕 experience, by being warned ahead of time that the only place you can park your camper is right next to the smelly drop toilet 🚻 😉.

[@CARNIKELLI]

I grew up in Maine and there are 3 seasons...Winter, Summer and blackfly season

[@theresatruax3846]

Slim I knew I was watching a National Geographic program excellent video and videos you are talented and I enjoy all the content you create. You keep it real and that is what makes this very enjoyable! Thanks a million!!!!!

[@livingsimplytosimplylive6817]

Thank you for bringing us along on your travels.

[@reedandjulie1013]

Great video, well done. Thank you Slim

[@sjTHEfirst]

Another great adventure. Thanks for sharing Slim.

[@ex_yz]

New slim video always turns my day around

[@csnyd2936]

Thanks Slim ! Great video

[@kaykaykayak9368]

Love that book ! And I want to plant some sweet grass. I had some land near Baxter State Park and remembered how bad the black flies were but still love the state of Maine , so beautiful!! And thanks to the foresight of Mr. Baxter we have natural places like this!!

[@oldfisherman5112]

Camped at Baxter state park a couple times back in the 80's. Beautiful park.

[@jandyke9995]

Slim, another great video and that book is wonderful

[@Toris30]

Cool video Slim thanks for taking us on trips whit you

[@lowrangeoverland9013]

Good to see camping again. looking forward to your excellent adventures !

[@donemery1005]

Mother’s Day to Father’s Day are usually the worst ti e for black flies. We purchased a no seam gazelle screen room . Sets up in 2 minutes. Works great for spring and fall. Thank you for another great video

[@mikeranfurly1135]

Braiding Sweetgrass. A pleasure to read and embrace

[@johnlounsbury6191]

thats why I always bring my check book

[@SlimPotatohead]

Mine's in a Canadian bank. It would take weeks to clear and would add a fee to deposit. SP

[@pagewhite8177]

That book looks great Slim, I will look for it. Your meal was my kind of meal, it looked delicious! I can’t wait for part two, thanks for the video!

[@lindawoods6841]

Camping in Maine and a 2 part video.. Yay!!!Narration is totally awesome. I enjoy how you tell the story of the places you visit.. you make everything so interesting.. thank you Slim for sharing.♥

[@donnasnorthernlights2089]

Slim...go to the Acadia National Park near Bar Habor Maine. Also go to Blue Hill Maine....gorgeous little town on the ocean. Be sure to eat the blueberry pie in Maine. If you go to the park they have the world's best Popovers at the cool park restaurant. It's a must to go there. Sits on a lake with a trail around it. The rocky shore of Acadia and a trip to the top of Cadillac Mountain at the park are memories you'll never forget. Have fun!!!

[@PamBolin1954]

I agree Slim. “Braiding Sweetgrass” is a great read.

[@sueg2658]

Slim, I hope you realize by sharing your awesome channel with us you are “giving back” a HUGE amount of enjoyment, wisdom and education to us viewers. Many thanks for the hard work it takes to keep the channel going and for all your wisdom that you share.

[@maryr8063]

Can't wait for part II . :)

[@volvo09]

Hey, you were near me! I was out rotating my tires before a trip and the black flies were mauling me.

[@FeedScrn]

Nice vid. I am seeing the beauty of forest plants in a new way.. glimpses... through your videos and perspective.

[@ReflectedMiles]

One of my best friends grew up in Maine. Based on experience with him and stories and experiences from his life, I think I would expect things in Maine to not always make much sense.

[@kimberlyshalaby1134]

Hello Slim! Good to see you. Looking forward to part 2.

[@PAULPINBALL]

Oh the wonderful black fly season is in full swing, it’ll be over soon!

[@azclaimjumper]

Yep, camping spots sometimes just don't work out. Thanks for sharing the beauty your surroundings.

[@margarethughes3763]

Thank you for the video .

[@ex-engineer6657]

Thanks again.

[@TravelingGranny]

Maine is on my list of places to see! I need to get one of those net hats! Thank you for the heads up! So green so loved seeing the ferns, plants, flowers etc...I have never heard or seen those fiddle heads before! Your meal looks very good! Thank you for sharing! Happy & safe travels! ~Tracey~👍🤗

[@ShawnPatterson402]

Baxter is a beautiful park, but I must agree that the insect population is very very vibrant. As always, safe travels....

[@bradleysonthemove5790]

Think we might be as excited as you are to be back on the road .. YAY! Really appreciate how you take the time and effort to make great videos, even to the extent of retracing your steps over rugged terrain, in the rain, through bug infested areas, just to capture the best shot .. that's what we enjoy most. Go job, Slim!

[@GundamDroid]

God bless you Slim, stay safe out there

[@philipdutton9831]

Hey Slim, long time follower, thanks for the book tip. I think I may enjoy that!

[@redsorgum]

Your trailer has seen worse roads 😉😘 The beach looks nice. $13.08 welcome to Maine……🤪 I like Baxter state park. Looking forward to part two.

[@contrafax]

I LOVE that fern shot, so beautiful and the composition is most excellent.

[@cherriemckinstry131]

Looks like a great place to view a saucer landing! Loved the view and your experience.

[@georgegandara6054]

Hi,in spite of the odds you could finally made it!!!!thanks for sharing your experiences,regards from Chile

[@1cosmocat]

Glad to see you show that every camping spot doesn't always work out.

[@johnnylightning1491]

I can relate to the black flies and skeeters. Personally I think you should take up smoking big black cigars, they keep the bugs away. They might take 10 years off of your life but hey, the bugs won't bother you. Keep the good stuff coming.

[@soniadowney7427]

I love the fact I can enjoy nature without being attacked by bugs 😊

[@debratorres5299]

Love you Slim!

[@faithrada]

Thanks Slim... you never disappoint. 🌱🌿🌲🙏

[@thomascronquist1604]

I would add front straps to the kayak, to the bumper and rear straps to the rear bumper. This will be safer if your straps break and if it’s windy while driving, the kayak won’t move.

[@johnswof]

It's a requirement in my state. I use a strong nylon cord for both ends and two three inch canvas straps across that are ratchetted tight to my roof rack.

[@johnandreadavis3024]

You're doing great buddy. Keep it up you have a lot of people liking your stuff!

[@r8edrv4fun65]

Great video, Slim! Thanks for the tour of where not to go.

[@hansostlund4626]

Always great entertainment when you post sir

[@josephpotterf9459]

Thanks Slim

[@dhblan8591]

Hi Slim. Great to see you on the road and camping. The Baxter are looks wonderful and definitely rustic and wilderness-like. Too bad about your run ins with Maine’s state bird - the black fly!

[@rgold02]

Thanks so much for sharing Slim! I always look forward to your new videos. Have a great week. Goldie in Jacksonville Florida

[@glennkennedy441]

This was a good one !

[@juliafromwisconsin]

Yes, Braided Sweetgrass is a great book, I really enjoyed reading it. Thanks for another great video and I hope the bugs don’t eat you alive!

[@pagewhite8177]

I just checked the Sweetgrass book out from the library. I’m excited to read it. Thanks for the recommendation!

[@RRyan-pq5xd]

Well, it didn't look like a dream vacation spot with the flies, bugs and all...BUT Slim, you did find several great moments to take pictures of, lovely. thanks again

[@richardmacphee2367]

Ooooooh my home state, ok home sick now, I’m one of them Penobscot native Indians from up there, I’ve been watching your videos for a long time, love your channel, lots to see up there, find you some fiddleheads to eat, and some Maine blueberries 🥰 👍🏼

[@phylbeeme2476]

Deep Woods Off is hot sauce on the human burrito to Maine black flies.

[@SlimPotatohead]

Ha ha!!! Good one! SP

[@joharmon2148]

I felt those flies right through my computer screen. Hate flying bugs. To bad about the misadventure for the beach.

[@36PawsPNWC]

Awesome book!!! That is the book I read as I traveled cross country with our trailer! I love it and highly recommend it! Great video, Slim! Good night😴

[@myperidot12]

Hello there. Love your videos. Thanks 😊

[@milacy3]

Slim! Love your narrative and your perseverance of the mosquitos and black flies!😱 Apparently you were there at the height of black flie season. Love the nature shots and I agree with you the $13.08 ...what is that about! Lol! Looking forward to part two and more of your cabin renovation!

[@singhthe_king9558]

Your videos are never too long 👍.

[@echomoon3381]

Oh jeeze, you really, really had my mouth watering with those fiddleheads. And yes, Maine is totally beautiful. I lived downsouth I Old Orchard then Biddeford got 4yrs. It got to where I couldn't afford it any more and moved back to TN. I sure do miss Maine tho.

[@webthing8028]

Loved this ride with you. Im.not physically able to so this anymore. And this was wht I was needing. Going on ride with u. Awesome

[@cjhawk45]

Love fiddle heads! I read that book last summer when I camped on crownland for a week, glad to see you found it. :-)

[@bpalpha]

I use to live in Maine. Beautiful place if you can hack the long winters. Might want to check out Mount Dessert Island/Bar Harbor. Camden and Rockport are extremely photogenic.

[@lukespack]

A totally different world is Bar Harbor. That was Rockefeller land.

[@Scott_From_Maine]

Those places are awfully busy for Slim's tastes. The Donnell Pond area might be an option.

[@cas5324]

Love it when you're on the road. Sorry this experience wasn't so great. I'm going to look for that book.

[@MaryK4242]

The wild fern is my favorite also!! The patters are so amazing!

[@cathydemarest3572]

Anytime I get by ferns I get chiggers😂

[@tressessalon]

Thanks for the video, sorry you had to beat up your vehicle and trailer on that crappy road, and to no end to boot! Im looking forward to reading that book