Eastern Maine's coastal areas near Baileyville feature rocky shorelines and dense forests with elevations ranging from sea level to 400 feet. Summer temperatures typically average 70-80°F during the day, dropping to 50-60°F at night. The camping season runs from mid-May through mid-October with most campgrounds closing before winter's harsh conditions arrive.
What to do
Horseback riding access: Cottonwood Camping & RV Park offers direct trail access for equestrians. "This is the first campground we have stayed at that has ATV trail access, horse friendly camping, full hookups, pull through sites, tent camping, tent rentals, teepee rentals, 'tiny bird cabin', and a tree house," notes camper J B.
Kayaking opportunities: At Sunset Point Campground in Harrington, campers can access water directly. "Short walk overlooking the water with gorgeous sunset," explains Mir D. The site provides sheltered picnic tables at every tent site, making it convenient for day trips.
Fishing local waters: Machias Rips Campsite offers free camping with river access. "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)," shares John R., who recommends bringing insect repellent as "mosquitoes can get bad in the area."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Many campers appreciate the natural encounters at rv sites near Baileyville, Maine. At Seaview Campground in Eastport, Mark S. reports: "You can see whales swimming by," with sites offering "unobstructed view of the bay" where marine life regularly appears.
Clean bathroom facilities: Sunset Point Campground maintains well-kept facilities that campers consistently mention. Anna L. notes it's "super easy—we arrived late and still found our way very easily. Nice bathrooms, cheap firewood, and picnic table + shelter at every tent site."
Spectacular sunsets: Sunset viewing opportunities are abundant, particularly at Seaview Campground where Mark S. shared: "We also walked along the beach area in the campground, to watch the sunset." The campgrounds situated on bays and lakes offer prime vantage points for evening skies.
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access roads to camping areas can be challenging. At South Bay on Rocky Lake, Mark M. reports: "After turning off the highway you take a dirt road for about a mile until you see a sign for the campsites. (My sedan easily made it down the road)."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. At Machias Rips Campsite, John R. notes: "Most Cell phone carriers won't have service back at the camp, I myself had to drive 20 Minutes up the road for signal, A cell signal booster may work here." However, Gary contradicts this: "The only exception is that we had 4 bars of LTE service (AT&T) which was nice."
Site privacy concerns: While many campgrounds offer scenic views, privacy between sites can be limited. Anna L. mentions about Sunset Point Campground: "Only heads up is that the sites aren't very private." Consider this when selecting camping locations if personal space is a priority.
Tips for camping with families
Unique accommodations: Consider specialty lodging options for memorable family experiences. At Cottonwood Camping & RV Park, Cheryl R. shares: "I surprised my husband with the Teepee- we were not disappointed! A huge Teepee with a very comfortable queen size bed- a couch, table, area animal rugs, coffee maker and a fan if needed."
Lake access for swimming: Unknown Lakes campsites offers water activities for families. Kevin C. describes: "There is a Lake on both east and west sides of the camping area. Three sites are view of both lakes from the camp sites." This provides safe swimming opportunities for children.
Free camping options: Machias Rips Campsite offers budget-friendly family camping with basic amenities. Jillian B. notes it's a "Beautiful place. Clean sites. Easy to find and right off rt 9." The site includes maintained bathrooms though be aware it "seems to be a bathroom pit-stop for travelers on rt 9... So lots of traffic driving in."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: When selecting rv parking near Baileyville, Maine, note the variations in site spacing. At Jonesport Campground, Nancy W. reports: "The campground is small with some 20 or so campsites in a loop with some sites right on the water and others behind them. About a third seasonal campers who mentioned they have been coming there for many years."
Hookup options: Full service connections are available at select campgrounds. At Cottonwood Camping & RV Park, Don K. mentions: "New park so lots of construction going on. Owner is very helpful. Will be a great park when it really gets going. W/E/S at most sites. Reasonable price. 35 to 45 bucks, in Maine thats not bad."
Weather considerations: Wind can impact RV awnings and equipment. Nancy W. advises at Jonesport Campground: "Since you are right on the ocean, it can get quite windy so be sure not to leave your awning out if you go away. Screen rooms are a good idea because the black flies and mosquitos in Maine can be quite pesky in the spring and summer."
