Best Tent Camping near Bernard, ME
The coastal waters surrounding Bernard, Maine provide access to several tent camping options ranging from island camping to mainland sites. The Maine Island Trail Association (MITA) maintains a network of island camping sites including Saddleback Island, Shivers Island, and Nathan Island, all accessible primarily by boat. These islands offer primitive tent camping experiences with spectacular ocean views and stargazing opportunities for MITA members, though most lack basic amenities.
Tent campers heading to the islands should prepare thoroughly as conditions require self-sufficiency. Most island sites have no drinking water, toilets, or trash disposal, and campers are required to use wag bags rather than digging cat holes for human waste. The tide fluctuations (9-14 vertical feet) significantly affect landing conditions, making some islands inaccessible at high tide. Weather conditions change rapidly, with fog rolling in unexpectedly. A visitor commented, "The fog can roll in at any minute so come prepared with a chart, compass, bearings between islands/markers and a marine radio."
Mainland options include Four Acre Woods Campground, which offers more amenities for tent campers including water, electricity, showers, and toilets, though sites are described as small and close together. Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land provides walk-in tent sites about half a mile from the parking area, with sites situated along a beautiful pond surrounded by hiking trails. These sites are free and first-come, first-served, featuring fire rings and picnic tables at some locations. Many tent campers appreciate the relative seclusion of these areas compared to more developed campgrounds. One camper noted, "This was really a beautiful spot to set up camp. The spots are secluded enough but not isolated." Duck Harbor Campground on Isle au Haut (part of Acadia National Park) offers five coveted lean-to sites requiring reservations that typically fill within minutes when they become available on April 1st.