Cabin rentals near Belfast, Maine provide rustic to deluxe accommodations within an hour's drive radius. The coast of Penobscot Bay sees average summer temperatures of 65-75°F, creating comfortable overnight stays from May through October. Winter cabin availability is limited, with few locations offering heated units during the off-season.
What to do
Kayaking from waterfront sites: At Megunticook by the Sea Campground, campers can launch directly from waterfront cabins. "You are about fifteen minutes to downtown Bangor which has some good restaurants, a casino, and a large outdoor concert venue which has big name musical acts throughout the summer," notes one visitor to Pumpkin Patch RV Resort, describing regional entertainment options accessible from local cabins.
Walking trails near cabins: Multiple campgrounds offer cabin sites with nearby trail access. "Snowmobile trails behind the campground lead to a walking path that connects the high school and elementary school for a pleasant walk in the woods," reports a Pumpkin Patch visitor who stayed in October, just before seasonal closure.
Ferry trips to nearby islands: Cabin guests can access ferries to Islesboro and other Penobscot Bay islands with day trips from Belfast and nearby towns. "Rockport harbor is a short bike ride away with a beautiful ocean side road. Ask the harbor master for directions," advises a Megunticook camper who visited in September.
What campers like
Ocean viewing areas: Sennebec Lake Campground provides both lakeside cabins and an open viewing area. "The campground's location was a highlight, offering easy access to the towns of Camden, Rockport, and Rockland, each having with their own unique New England charm," mentions one reviewer who appreciated the region's attractions.
Cedar showers: Unique shower facilities stand out at some campgrounds. "The bathrooms are clean and the cedar showers are awesome!" reports one visitor to Megunticook by the Sea who was "excited to come back here since we left."
Community fire areas: Many cabin areas feature community fire pits separate from individual sites. "Down near the water they have a cookout area with picnic tables and a huge open grill for their lobster dinners. Also chairs and benches just to look out over the bay," notes a visitor to Megunticook Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limits: Most cabin facilities close between mid-October and early May. "Stayed here in October, the week before they shut down for the season," mentions a Pumpkin Patch visitor, reflecting the limited seasonal availability typical of the region.
Additional fees structure: Some locations charge separate fees beyond base rates. "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... $4 weather guarantee... $7.95 if you need to hook up to WiFi... $10 to use the dump station," explains a Megunticook Campground visitor.
Limited off-season availability: Winter cabin options are scarce, with Shady Oaks Campground and Cabins (formerly Fort Knox KOA) being one of few offering limited off-season options. "We stayed here last year on our vacation to maine, we actually made a wrong turn, ended up getting there very late, they left the key for us to find and were very hospitable the entire visit," explains a visitor who appreciated the accommodating service.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Seawall Campground offers family cabin options within Acadia National Park. "The shuttle bus takes 50 minutes to get to Bar Harbor, by car it's closer to 30. There was really nothing to do at the campground except camp - no hikes or trails directly there," explains one family that stayed a full week.
Recreation facilities: Some locations provide family recreation options. "There is a small arcade, store, and 24/7 laundry. Bathrooms/showers are clean and not very busy as most guests are in RVs. 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," reports a Sennebec Lake visitor who has returned for three consecutive years with children.
Age-appropriate campground selection: Not all cabin locations cater to children. "This campground caters more to adults and does not have too much for kids to do. Most of the campers were seasonals whose campsites were well-kept and they were quiet," notes a Pumpkin Patch visitor, highlighting the importance of selecting age-appropriate facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for cabin parking: Balsam Cove Campground provides specific advice for parking near cabin units. "The tent sites are private and have water/electric. There are RV sites which are private, but those fill up fast, most rv sites are on a gravel pad area with no privacy," advises an experienced visitor.
Leveling requirements: Some cabin areas have challenging terrain for larger vehicles. "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 a Sennebec Lake visitor who appreciated the well-maintained sites.
Seasonal camper communities: Many locations host seasonal residents who maintain cabins year-round. "Most of the population consists of seasonal campers with huge RVs and Motor Homes. It's very adult oriented, super quiet, and super clean," notes a visitor to Pumpkin Patch, describing the permanent community atmosphere found at many cabin locations.
