Camping around Belfast, Maine features numerous options with waterfront access to Penobscot Bay and several inland lake alternatives within a 30-minute drive. The camping season typically runs from mid-May through mid-October, with average summer temperatures ranging from 55°F at night to 75°F during the day. Fall camping brings cooler temperatures and changing foliage with nighttime temperatures frequently dropping into the 40s by late September.
What to do
Hike Mount Battie: Located in Camden Hills State Park, this 800-foot summit offers panoramic views of Penobscot Bay. "One of the real pluses of this park were the miles and miles of hiking trails just outside our doorstep. Driving the tour road to the summit of Mt. Battie is a must and the views are spectacular (especially for watching the sunrise)," notes Nancy W. from Camden Hills State Park Campground.
Explore coastal towns: The campsite near Belfast serves as an ideal base for visiting neighboring historic towns. "This is a great location, close to Camden, Maine, and not far from other attractions," says Missy R., who stayed at Camden Hills. Many campers mention that Belfast offers excellent dining options and shopping within a 10-minute drive from most campgrounds.
Kayak on Sennebec Lake: For freshwater alternatives to ocean activities, Sennebec Lake provides calm paddling conditions. "We love the proximity to the lake with easy access for kayaking and swimming," writes Pam A. who stayed at Sennebec Lake Campground, noting that it's particularly good for families with children.
Attend local events: Many campgrounds host activities throughout the season. At Searsport Shores, "We got lucky and stayed on a lovely weekend in September that featured a small, intimate festival and workshop of fiddlers, banjos, ukuleles, mandolins, and guitars jamming with old time and blue grass music," shares Kathy L., highlighting the cultural opportunities available.
What campers like
Ocean access for exploration: Low tide reveals extensive shoreline for discovering marine life. "At low tide you can do fun rock designs on the shore," reports Stacy M. who stayed at Searsport Shores Ocean Campground. The rocky beaches provide opportunities for beachcombing rather than swimming.
Community atmosphere: Unlike more isolated camping experiences, Belfast area campgrounds often foster social connections. "It's also a place where people strike up friendly conversations, make friends, and enjoy interacting with Astrid and Steve the owners who jump into the arts, music, and other activities right alongside their guests," explains Kathy L. about Searsport Shores.
Creative activities: Several campgrounds offer artistic opportunities beyond typical outdoor recreation. "Often there are artists and musicians at events or giving some kind of lessons. If your looking for a place to stay that is not like a national chain, you have found it!" says Dan G. who regularly stays at Searsport Shores.
Ocean views without waterfront prices: Many campgrounds offer common areas with water views even if not all sites are oceanfront. At Megunticook Campground, "The ocean overlook is particularly lovely," notes Samantha, referring to the campground's designated viewing area with benches and fire pits.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Waterfront sites book extremely early, especially for July and August. "We were worried when we decided to come to this part of Maine in the fall without reservations. It's early October, and I learned that Maine State Parks are first come first serve at this point," explains Missy R. about Camden Hills State Park Campground.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds sit near busy roads with associated noise. "The campground is located too close to the road and, with the exception of sites 84-87 and cabins 8-10, you will hear road noise in your site," warns Lee D. about Megunticook Campground. Request sites farther from main roads when making reservations.
Price variations and extra fees: Campground costs vary significantly in the area. "I thought $50 for a tent site was a little steep but it was all the potential extra fees that irked me: $30 site lock to ensure you get the site you want when you reserve," notes Lee D. about one campground, highlighting the importance of understanding total costs.
Limited shower facilities: Some campgrounds have minimal shower facilities for the number of sites. At Blackwoods Campground in nearby Acadia, "We had to drive offsite to showers," reports Roxanne R., which is common at several campgrounds in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with kids' activities: Some Belfast area campgrounds specifically cater to families with scheduled programs. "Activities started up again this year, with events such as kids' crafts, a kids vs adults water gun fight, cornhole competition, and a DJ for an evening of dancing - just on the weekend we were there," shares Pam A. about Sennebec Lake Campground.
Consider tent site locations carefully: Tent sites are often separated from RV areas and may require hauling gear. "The tents sites aren't accessible by car though, so you need to put all your camping equipment into a wagon and pull it to your site," explains Eileen N. who stayed at Searsport Shores, which offers wagon transport assistance.
Check playground conditions: Playground equipment quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "Playground is a bit of a stretch," notes Jimmy M. about Camden Hills State Park facilities, suggesting that families bring additional recreation equipment for children.
Book non-weekend dates when possible: Weekends bring higher occupancy and more activity. "We are pop-up campers. We had plenty of room for our camper. Dog friendly. Bathrooms were very clean," reports Jimmy M., whose family enjoyed a weekday stay at Camden Hills when facilities were less crowded.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many Belfast area campgrounds were established before large RVs became common. "Although the park accommodates larger RV's, there are a limited number of sites for those over 35 feet and the gravel roads are easy to navigate in a big rig," explains Nancy W. about Camden Hills State Park Campground.
Power considerations: Hookup types vary between campgrounds and sometimes within the same facility. "Approximately, half the sites have water and 30/50 amp electric and the others are no hookups," notes Nancy W. about Camden Hills. RVers should confirm electrical service matches their requirements when booking.
Leveling requirements: Site grading varies considerably throughout the area. "We have a 35ft RV, and we faced no issues getting in and out of the property and the sites across the water were level, with no extra leveling needed," reports Jason G. about his stay at Sennebec Lake Campground, demonstrating the importance of asking about site conditions.
TV reception limitations: Cable and antenna service can be problematic. "For television watchers, there is no cable and satellite can be difficult due to trees. There are nine sites (55-63) located in an open field that may be able to pick up satellite," explains Nancy W. about Camden Hills.
