Tent camping near Acadia National Park extends beyond established sites to include lesser-known options along the Maine coastline. The region experiences significant tidal fluctuations of 9-14 feet that affect waterfront camping access, especially for boat-in island locations. Primitive camping options range from clothing-optional sites to working farms with blueberry fields.
What to do
Hike scenic trails: Tent campers at Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land can explore moderate hiking trails with mountain views. One camper reported, "The hiking is moderate with multiple trails and great views. The hike the next morning was a good climb for only about a 3+ mile hike."
Kayak to remote islands: For adventurous campers, the Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss area offers nearby kayaking access. "There are numerous hiking trails in the area that can be found on All Trails, as well as easy places to kayak from, the closest of which are the Brooksville Town Landing, or Bucks Harbor public boat launch."
Swim in freshwater: Many tent sites offer swimming opportunities in ponds and lakes. A camper at Donnell Pond noted, "We were able to swim here as well. We went fishing and did catch a couple of fish!"
What campers like
Privacy in primitive settings: Rough and Raw offers a clothing-optional camping experience for those seeking something different. A camper described it as "A true hidden gem. We had no idea there was a clothing optional site near Acadia and stumbled across this with hipcamp. A safe and lovely primitive site."
Blueberry picking: Seasonal campers at Continuous Harmony Farm can participate in blueberry harvesting. The farm allows guests to "pick your own blueberries alongside their raking crew in their organic wild blueberry barrens. This experience is available only during blueberry season in late July and early August, and there is a fee!"
Waterfront views: Tent sites with water views are highly prized. A camper at Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss shared, "We absolutely loved this site, it was nothing we had ever experienced before. The views were incredible, we swam in the water everyday, and picked/ate the blueberries!"
What you should know
Campsite spacing varies: Many smaller campgrounds have closely spaced sites. At Four Acre Woods Campground, a camper reported, "When we arrived we were shocked to see how close together the sites are (we heard our neighbor snoring)."
Reservation systems differ: For Duck Harbor Campground on Isle au Haut, reservations open April 1st at 10am EST and fill within minutes. A camper warned, "If you don't go online within 10 minutes of opening day, April 1st, at 10 am EST, you will miss your chance to stay here for the whole year."
Seasonal considerations: Bug protection is essential, particularly during summer months. Four Acre Woods Campground offers "firewood, water, bathrooms and showers, and even electricity at the site," but campers should be prepared for compact spaces.
Tips for camping with families
Simple beach camping: Families can boat or walk to beach campsites at Donnell Pond. "There are two beaches that you can camp on that have sites with fire rings and picnic tables. We parked at the public dock that has public parking and boated over to the beach."
Farm camping experiences: Shivers Island provides unique experiences for families willing to kayak to remote locations. A visitor noted the owners at a nearby campground "are so nice the staff is beyond nice. They will deliver wood ice pretty much anything from the general store."
Clear access information: For families with young children, knowing exactly how to access campsites is crucial. A Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss camper advised, "It was a little difficult to find our site as there was nothing labeled, and I tried contacting the host but never received a response."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options on islands: Most island camping is tent-only due to boat-in access requirements. Maine Island Trail Association maintains islands like Saddleback where "the camping spot is simple and similar to most backcountry sites: a flat space to pitch your small tent, no toilet, no drinking water, no picnic table, and no reservations possible."
Small RV considerations: For smaller RVs, Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss offers suitable sites. "We stayed in campsite 2, where the land is open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv. It is dry camping, with no hookups, and generators are not allowed."
Advance preparation: RV campers must plan for limited services. A Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss camper reported, "The area was very quiet - at night we only heard the crickets and the wind," but emphasized the importance of being self-sufficient with water and supplies.
