Spring Cleaning and Free Camping

Every year we host an event that I believe is unique to Maine…we exchange free camping for help getting the campground open in the Spring. When you think about it, the weekend is a win-win for everyone. We get help picking up the millions of little sticks on the ground (remember the Nor’easter last week?) and raking the far corners of the Park; campers get to evaluate our campground without spending any money. We get the benches put out on the boardwalk and along the nature trails; campers get to meet people who come here regularly. These are the folks who will always tell the truth about vacationing in Searsport. Finally we get help tending the bonfire and washing the windows; campers get to enjoy Saturday breakfast in the rec hall and a barbeque lunch at the beach. Saturday night we all share a potluck supper in the rec hall. It’s my job to provide some sort of amusement…it’s a task I take very seriously and I’m happy to say most years have been very entertaining.

So when do we do it? Always the second weekend in May…in 2008 it’s the 9th, 10th and 11th. We ask people to call ahead because I can only cook for a limited number of people. The requirements are that you bring a rake, gloves, sense of humor and that you help us Saturday morning. Things are pretty relaxed. Children and pets get the run of the park. Basically we make a list of things that need to get done, ask anyone with special talents to fess up so we can take advantage of specialty skills and then everyone chooses their task…and I come around with cookies, coffee and hot chocolate…anything to keep the energy levels high!

We’d love to have you join us if this sounds fun. Call me at 207.548.6059 so that I can save a place for you…bring friends! And pack layers of clothing…there’s no predicting the weather and like old vaudville, the show must go on!