Annabessacook Lake, Maine

Private island glamping with a downeast grin.

Unplug in a place where loons call the schedule. Canoes, campfires, and a little Maine magic await on 1 Big Sustainable Island on Annabessacook Lake in Monmouth, Maine — near Winthrop.

Today on the island

Lake temp: 50*F

Fire risk: High

If the loons are louder than your phone, you're doing it right.

Quick Answer: 1 Big Sustainable Island is a private, off-grid island retreat on Annabessacook Lake with cabins, glamping tents, and quiet, nature-first stays.

A non-profit community inspiring the naturally curious to explore, create, and enjoy island life.
Resetting Humans one Island at a Time!

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At 1BSI...

Sustainable, off-grid vacation adventures. Simple living is good living.

Rustic does not mean roughing it.

Take a break from the busy world and find yourself in nature, exploring island life on a Maine lake.

The island has 7 Maine Glamping Sites! These are unique lakefront stays on the way to Acadia National Park.

Island life brings a touch of luxury to off-grid glamping in Maine.

Island Adventure

Island Life Made Easy

We focus on environmental stewardship. Pack your favorite foods and vacation clothes for the island! We'll take it from there.

Nature made this island remote, we made it convenient

We make private island glamping seamless and fun. Getting to and from the island is part of the adventure with our canoes and kayaks, regular ferry service, and docks for your own boat. Island living is a breeze in our fully equipped glamping sites.

Recent Five-Star Reviews from Our Guests

Great experience. Extremely unique. Kent and his staff got us everything that we needed. Our little doggie had the time of his life. Highly recommend.
Voyager722778, November 2026
Events: Weddings, Families, Retreats
I had a beautiful time out on the island staying in the A frame! Kent is an excellent communicator and provides a really unique experience. I am missing starting and ending my day with that calming paddle.
Benjamin, October 2026
A-Frame Acorn Abode
Me and my wife loved everything about our stay to our private little dome. It was quiet, peacefull, and more importantly it was quiet. Kent was an awesome host from when we pulled in to the last ferry ride home. All in all it was a great way to spend our wedding anniversary together
Savannah, October 2026
Hammock Haven Dome

From guest reviews collected by Revyoos. Read all our reviews.

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Island lore, quiet openings, and a little mischief - in short bursts, when it matters.

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Island Questions We Hear a Lot

What makes 1BSI different from other glamping sites?

1BSI is a non-profit, private island retreat on Annabessacook Lake focused on nature, sustainability, and simple living. We balance comfort with off-grid adventure - think hammocks, lake paddles, and firelight, not commercial resort vibes.

Do I need a boat to stay on the island?

Nope! You can arrive by canoe or kayak (gear provided), catch our seasonal ferry, bring your own boat, or even paddle yourself for a quiet crossing.

What should I expect from an island stay?

Expect slower days, quiet nights, and real nature - loons, stars, lake mist, and the type of calm your phone can't interrupt. We provide the essentials; you bring curiosity and your favorite food.

Explore Our Stays