Baileyville campsites sit along the eastern Maine border, with multiple options along tidal waters that fluctuate up to 24 feet daily. Summer temperatures typically range from 52-76°F, with high humidity in July and August. Campgrounds in the region offer varied terrain from wooded sites to open lakefront locations, with many requiring advanced preparation due to limited services.
What to do
Kayaking island campsites: Paddle from the boat launch at Third Machias Lake to access primitive island camping. "It can be a rough paddle if it's windy. This lake is HUGE and can and has gotten 2-3 foot waves when the weather is not so great. It usually takes us about an hour to get to the island we camp on," notes Tina D.
Lighthouse exploration: Visit West Quoddy lighthouse when staying at Sunset Point RV Park. "We received a hearty welcome from Cindy when we checked in. After we paid, she gave us the lowdown on what we should see and do in the small town of Lubec, especially the West Quoddy house lighthouse which despite its name, is the easternmost point where you can see the sunrise in the US," explains Lee D.
Beach combing: Explore the expansive gravel beach at Huckins Beach, which features hard-packed sand at low tide. The dramatic tidal changes create different shoreline experiences throughout the day, with nearby Bold Coast offering dramatic rocky cliffs and ocean views.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for marine wildlife from campground shorelines. "There is a lot of wildlife and waterlife - we saw many seals and cormorants in the water, as well as a few eagles," reports Heather C. from Cobscook Bay State Park.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Cobscook Bay State Park Campground features natural separation between campsites. "The park is big, and many sites are very far apart - we had almost complete privacy. There are both reservable and non reservable sites. Some sites have Adirondack shelters," notes Heather C.
Lake swimming: Gardner Lake offers clear water for swimming. "Amazing lakefront lot, very private and comes with a big common area to BBQ and clean Port-a-Potty on the top of the 1 acre sloped lot. Brought our own kayak to enjoy Gardner and Second Lakes!" shares Claudia G. about Tom's Retreat.
Budget-friendly options: Machias Rips Campsite provides free dispersed camping with basic amenities. "Sitting only an hour from Ellsworth and Bangor ME this is a nature lovers dream! The dirt road leading to the camp can be easily missed if not paying attention! But is clearly marked with a blue sign at the head of the road," John R. explains.
Lake views: Waterfront sites allow for direct water access and views. "Lovely place on a small lake. Staff was wonderful, the site was lovely with a great view of the lake. The lake was clean and we swam, kayaked and crossed the lake on paddle boards," reports Pamela H.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have spotty coverage. "There isn't wifi, my car (ATT) got better service than my phone (Tmobile)," notes Bethany K. about Keenes Lake. At Third Machias Lake, campers report needing to drive 20 minutes for signal.
Extreme tides: The region experiences significant tidal changes that affect shoreline access. "Beware of the tides which are some of the highest in the country of nearly 20 feet. If you come in at low tide you will have a very long way to carry your canoe/kayak," warns Nancy W.
Insect protection: Beyond standard mosquito protection, blackflies can be intense in early summer. "Camp sites today are very buggy - bring your repellent and/or netting," advises Gary about Machias Rips.
Logging traffic: Access roads to some campgrounds pass through active logging areas. "This is a logging road, beware of log trucks. Pull OVER when you see one and let them pass. They are going really fast with really big loads of logs," cautions Tina D.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Huckins Beach and Trail offers kid-friendly camping with nearby play areas. "There are a few open areas for picnicking or just relaxing, as well as a play area for kids," shares a reviewer.
Beach activities: Low tide exposes expansive sand flats for exploration. "The preserve has an expansive gravel beach and hard pack sand when the tide goes out," notes Nancy W., making it ideal for children to explore marine life.
Fishing opportunities: Lakes and rivers offer productive fishing. "Great spot to fish and swim! I've caught smallmouth bass, chubs and trout in the river so far! Black and silver Jerk baits work great," advises John R.
Dog-friendly trails: Multiple pet-friendly campgrounds welcome dogs on trails and beaches. "Dogs are permitted in the campground and on most trails but there is one section where they are prohibited due to shorebird nesting habitat and they must be leashed and picked up after," explains Nancy W., making these dog friendly campgrounds near Baileyville ideal for families with pets.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking at Keenes Lake Family Campground, request level sites. "We stayed here one night in mid September. There are new owners and they are really nice people. It is hard to get a level site but the owner let us pick what was best for us based on what was available," advises Cheryl K.
RV size limitations: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "Limited RV sites and very limited for over 20 feet," warns Pamela H. about Cobscook Bay State Park Campground.
Weather considerations: High winds can damage equipment. "Warning: do not leave your awning out while you are away from your camper as the winds can really pick up in the afternoon and damage them," cautions Nancy W.
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. "The road is decent, maybe a few spots to watch out for, and they ask you to keep the speed down (5mph) so they are trying to take care of it (or not let it get torn up too much)," explains Bethany K.
