Patten’s Camp Wapiti provides a break from hectic life

Contributed photo
MAIN HALL — The main dining hall of Camp Wapiti in Patten offers more than just a place to grab a home-cooked meal. It also is fully equipped with WiFi to allow patrons to stay in touch with the outside world.
By Joseph Cyr
Staff Writer
    PATTEN — With breathtaking views of Mount Katahdin, cozy cabins, and a pair of gracious hosts, Camp Wapiti may just be one of the best-kept secrets in the state.
    Operated by Ryan and Jennifer Shepard for four seasons, Camp Wapiti has existed since 1912. The name Wapiti is often associated with elk, but there are no such animals to be found. There are plenty of moose, however, which be part of the reason for the camp’s name.
    “Rumor has it they had Western Indian guides who helped them build everything,” Jennifer said. “The original definition of wapiti was a large antlered deer or elk. With so many moose and deer here, that’s probably where the name came from.”
    Situated on a 13-acre parcel of land, Camp Wapiti is an outdoor enthusiasts paradise. Since much of the surrounding property is not suitable for development, peace and tranquility are sure to be found for those seeking an escape from a busy life.
    Because Camp Wapiti is located on a private body of water —Wapiti/Davis Pond — there is never a lack of space on the water for boating and/or fishing.
    And when it’s time to crash, there are eight cabins, which hold between six and 10 individuals, to chose from. Full floor plans of all eight cabins can be found on their web site.
    Tradition is important to the Shepards, as evidenced by the original 1912 table that’s still in use in the main dining hall. The original fireplace is also permanent fixture of the hall.
    “We tried to keep this camp as close to the original intent as possible,” Jennifer said. We have been trying to re-do each cabin as we can, while still preserving the original charm of them.”
    With all the intention to preserving the past, Camp Wapiti is not without modern conveniences. Each cabin is wired for electricity and running water, complete with hot showers. They also have an in-ground swimming pool, recreation/weight room and an outdoor hot tub.
    If you are coming to Camp Wapiti, leave your cell phone at home. It won’t do you much good, as cell reception does not exist. Fortunately, the Shepards have you covered as they installed a wireless Internet network in the main dining hall for those in needing to surf the web while vacationing.
    The Shepards, who are Registered Maine Guides, are the first to open Camp Wapiti year-round, which required winterizing the cabins. Originally from the Portland area, the Shepards moved to northern Maine to be more active in the outdoors. The Shepard’s two children Wyatt and Madison can also be found exploring the campground in search of frogs and other woodland friends.
Contributed photo
COZY ABODE — All eight of the cabins at Camp Wapiti are tastefully decorated in rustic country fashion.
    “We looked at a number of different places and when we found this place, we knew it was something we wanted to do,” Jennifer said. “My husband loves hunting and I used to do a lot of guiding and taught outdoor schools, so this was a good combination.”
    Camp Wapiti is approximately 100 miles north of Bangor and only 22 miles from Interstate 95. On your arrival however, you will realize Camp Wapiti is truly “where the road ends and trails begin”.
    “We are the only camps on the lake with individual log cabins of varying sizes nestled around the shore,” Ryan said. “Mount Katahdin, with its snowcapped peaks, can be seen right from our porches. All cabins have wood heat, electric refrigerators, and complete baths with hot showers. All bedding and towels are provided for your convenience.”
    Camp Wapiti is also an all-inclusive retreat, meaning all guests have full use of all on-site amenities including boats, swimming pool, lake, hunting and fishing (with a license only). The Shepards also provide three meals a day for those who choose.
    Fall is the busiest time of year for the Shepards as hunting season kicks into high gear. Camp Wapiti offers guided hunts for trophy deer, Maine Black Bear, moose and game birds.
    “We had a spring bear hunt this year on the Penobscot Indian Nation reservation and had 100 percent success with that hunt,” Ryan said. “All eight hunters bagged a bear.
    While much of the focus remains on hunting at Camp Wapiti, the Shepards are trying to make the summer months more family friendly, so that wives and children will want to come to the camp. The Shepards are also expanding the business to offer corporate retreats and wedding packages.
    For more information on Camp Wapiti, call the Shepards at 528-2485, email: stay@campwapiti.com or visit their web site at http://campwapiti.com.