Best Dispersed Camping near Acadia National Park

Located in northeastern Maine, with campsites near Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park has something for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. The 47,000-acre park and campgrounds offer some of the best camping opportunities in the regions where visitors can choose to spend the night in the forest, along the coast, or on Mt Desert Mountain, ME to name a few. Bears, moose, seabirds, and whales are some of the wildlife visitors can catch of glimpse of while camping in the park. RV owners will find plenty of places to pull into including sites along the Schoodic Peninsula that offers everything from water and electrical hookups to pet-friendly areas.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Acadia National Park (6)

    1. Marshall Island

    1 Review
    Swans Island, ME
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 761-8225

    "One of the MITA (Maine Island Trail Association) camping areas in the Deer Isle Archipelago, this island has 2 sites– one on the southeast side near Sand Cove and the other on the northeast side of the"

    2. Buckle Island

    1 Review
    Stonington, ME
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 761-8225

    "One of the MITA (Maine Island Trail Association) camping areas in the Deer Isle Archipelago, this island has 2 sites – one larger area up in the woods, the other quite small near the granite shore, but"

    3. Wheat Island

    1 Review
    Isle au Haut, ME
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 761-8225

    "One of the MITA (Maine Island Trail Association) camping areas in the Deer Isle Archipelago, this island has 2 sites– one very small one on the northeast side, the other perfect for larger groups on the"

    4. Doliver Island

    1 Review
    Isle au Haut, ME
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 761-8225

    5. Machias Rips Campsite

    4 Reviews
    Beddington, ME
    45 miles
    Website

    "Situated right off of Route 9 between Amherst and Wesley Maine, you can access the Machias River Corridor Public Lands."

    "Great free off grid camping near Canadian border. The other previous reviewers did a great job explaining the campground."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Acadia National Park

8 Photos of 6 Acadia National Park Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Acadia National Park

8 Reviews of 6 Acadia National Park Campgrounds



Guide to Acadia National Park

Dispersed camping near Acadia National Park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Maine's stunning natural beauty while enjoying the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Here are some top spots to consider for your next adventure.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Acadia National Park

  • Enjoy breathtaking sunsets and stargazing at Marshall Island, where the wooded areas and beach fires create a magical atmosphere.
  • Experience the sandy shores and easy access to trails at Buckle Island, making it an ideal spot for those new to sea kayak camping.
  • Explore the gorgeous views of the Gulf from Wheat Island, perfect for larger groups looking to enjoy the beauty of nature together.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Acadia National Park in Maine

  • Always come prepared with fresh water, as sites like Doliver Island do not offer any fresh water sources for filtering.
  • Be ready for mosquitoes, especially during sunset hours at places like Wheat Island, where they can be quite bothersome even in early September.
  • Bring wag bags for waste disposal, as many areas, including Buckle Island, do not have toilet facilities.

Scenic Attractions for Dispersed Campers

  • The Machias River offers a serene backdrop for camping at Machias Rips Campsite, where you can fish and swim right from your site.
  • For those looking to explore further, Machias River Camp off Route 9 provides access to the Machias River Corridor Public Lands, perfect for hiking and nature walks.
  • The stunning views of Isle au Haut from Doliver Island make it a picturesque stop for those traveling through the Deer Isle Archipelago.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping near Acadia National Park?

While Acadia National Park itself doesn't allow dispersed camping, several options exist within driving distance. Machias Rips Campsite is a notable dispersed camping area located about an hour from Ellsworth, right off Route 9 between Amherst and Wesley. This site offers 2 RV sites, 3 tent sites, and a lean-to shelter along the Machias River. The dirt road entrance is marked with a blue sign but can be easy to miss. For those willing to venture into coastal areas, the Deer Isle Archipelago offers island camping options through the Maine Island Trail Association (MITA), though these require boat access and proper permits.

Is free camping available in or around Acadia National Park?

Free camping options do exist around Acadia, though not within the national park itself. Wheat Island and Buckle Island are free camping areas in the Deer Isle Archipelago, accessible to MITA (Maine Island Trail Association) members. Wheat Island features two sites—a small one on the northeast side and a larger one perfect for groups on the southwest side with beautiful sunset views. Buckle Island also offers two sites: a larger wooded area and a smaller site near the granite shore. Note that these island sites require boat access and proper Leave No Trace practices.

What primitive or backcountry camping options exist in Acadia National Park?

True backcountry camping within Acadia National Park is not permitted, but primitive island camping options exist nearby for those seeking a backcountry experience. Marshall Island offers two primitive sites—one near Sand Cove on the southeast side and another on the northeast side of the island. These wooded sites provide a genuine wilderness experience. Doliver Island is another option, though smaller with limited tent space. It serves as a good stopping point when island-hopping in the region. Both islands are part of the Maine Island Trail Association network and require boat access, proper permits, and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.