Lakefront Retreat: Pet-Friendly A-Frame with Modern Comforts

My husband, Dana, and I were both born and raised in Maine. After spending many years out of state, we decided it was time to return home and put down roots as a family. We cherish our time outdoors, whether we're running, hiking, boating on the lake, having a campfire, or simply enjoying moments with friends and family. Our love for travel inspired us to create Camp MoonBud (named in honor of Dana's father, Moon, and my grandfather, Bud) as a haven that we would enjoy ourselves.

At Camp MoonBud, we’ve tried to think of everything to make your stay special. You’ll find kayaks, a canoe, a swim mat, plenty of firewood for cozy nights around the fire pit, soft linens, central heating and air conditioning, a refreshing lake breeze, a selection of coffees and teas, spices, and many more thoughtful amenities. Our amazing dock is perfect for soaking up the sun, fishing, or simply taking in the serene views of the lake. Dana lovingly calls it "The Maranacook Marriott" because we wanted to create a traditional Maine camp experience with all the modern conveniences.

We believe that communication is key to a great stay. We’re always here for you and love hearing from our guests during their visit. Your comfort and enjoyment are our top priorities, and we can’t wait to welcome you to Camp MoonBud!

We chose this lakeside community for its unique charm, the sense of history, and the opportunity to share the joy of a true Maine camp experience with our guests. “Camp” is a rich tradition for native Mainers, where many families own a lakeside or mountain getaway to enjoy the outdoor seasons for months at a time. Dana grew up on Long Pond in Livermore, and my family camp was on Salmon Lake in Belgrade. This tradition is deeply ingrained in us, and we are passionate about offering MoonBud as a place where other families can share in these cherished experiences.

Camp MoonBud’s west-facing location offers incredible afternoon sun and the best sunsets on the lake. The clean, clear water, excellent swimming area, and incredible fishing make it a perfect spot for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The magical and peaceful surroundings of this place immediately captured our hearts.

The history of Camp MoonBud adds to its charm. Built in 1965 for Reverend Charles Karsten and his wife Daphne, we purchased it from their daughter Wendy in 2022, making us only the second family to own it. This sense of history and continuity is something we deeply appreciate and are excited to share with our guests.

Our camp community is a quiet area where most of the residents have lived for decades, some of them for multiple generations. The longstanding relationships among residents make this neighborhood feel like home. While we did “modernize” the camp soon after we bought it, you’ll find it still maintains all of the original character it had when it was first built for the Reverend and his family.

Ultimately, we chose MoonBud for its unique charm, rich history, and welcoming atmosphere. We are thrilled to welcome you and hope you create wonderful memories here, just as we have.

MoonBud is truly unique because of its perfect blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and modern comforts. As an original A-frame built in 1965, it stands just forty feet from the water, offering stunning views and easy access to the lake. The property features a screened-in porch for relaxing evenings, a firepit with ample seating for cozy nights under the stars, an outdoor BBQ grill for family cookouts, and a lakeside picnic table for enjoying meals with a view. The serene lawn is perfect for cornhole, giant Jenga, and other outdoor activities. The second-story veranda provides spectacular views of the lake, where you can listen to the haunting calls of loons, watch eagles soar, and enjoy sightings of the area's natural wildlife.

The property is meticulously cleaned and maintained, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant stay for all our guests. Its proximity to the Maine coast, mountains, and stunning scenery offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

One of the property's unique charms is the whimsical presence of an active train track nearby, where gnome and fairy figurines mysteriously appear, delighting guests of all ages. This magical touch adds a sense of enchantment and wonder to your stay at Camp MoonBud, making it a truly special place to create lasting memories.