Tent camping near Birch Harbor, Maine offers access to both mainland and island sites within the rugged Downeast coastline. The area sits at the entrance to Frenchman Bay, with most camping locations situated between sea level and 400 feet elevation. Summer temperatures average 70-75°F with evening lows often dropping to 50-55°F, creating ideal camping conditions but requiring proper layering for comfort.
What to do
Kayaking to Shivers Island: Access this remote camping spot in the Deer Isle Archipelago for solitude and stargazing. "With a deep, rocky shore, it's the perfect place to make dinner, watch the sunrise or set, and star gaze with no city lights or trees to obstruct your view," notes one Shivers Island visitor.
Hiking on Isle au Haut: Use Duck Harbor Campground as a base for exploring this remote section of Acadia National Park. "There are several miles of moderate hikes. Starting in 2018 reservations will be online starting April 1. The campground is open mid May to mid October but the mailboat only goes to the campground from late June to late September; otherwise a 5 mile walk from town," explains a Duck Harbor Campground camper.
Swimming in freshwater lakes: Take a break from saltwater at Donnell Pond. "This lake is huge so keep that in mind. We parked at the public dock that has public parking and boated over to the beach. There are two beaches that you can camp on that have sites with fire rings and picnic tables," reports a Donnell Pond visitor.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss offers secluded spots. "This location offers level sites, views of rolling blueberry fields, a picnic table, and other goodies from your host. Lakeisha really takes pride in this property, and it shows," writes a Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss reviewer.
Natural features: Campers appreciate the unique landscapes. "This was really a beautiful spot to set up camp... The hike in is only about 1/2 mile so it's totally doable even if you need to make two trips. The spots are secluded enough but not isolated," notes a visitor to Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land.
Waterfront access: Many sites offer direct water access. "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 a Tom's Retreat camper.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most island sites have minimal amenities. "The camping spot is simple and similar to most backcountry sites: a flat space to pitch your small tent, no toilet, no drinking water, no picnic table, and no reservations possible," explains a Nathan Island visitor.
Reservation challenges: Some sites require advance planning. "Camping on in the Duck Harbor Campground is nearly the stuff of legends... if you don't go online within 10 minutes of opening day, April 1st, at 10 am EST, you will miss your chance to stay here for the whole year."
Weather preparedness: Conditions can change rapidly. "Summer though, 2 times through left us with a nice drinkable coffee temperature," mentions a Shivers Island camper who found their morning beverage cooling quickly in the coastal climate.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Select locations with shorter walks for kids. "We only went for one night but really enjoyed it here. If you do not have a boat, you can park at the public schoodic beach lot and walk the half mile to the beach."
Plan for variable weather: Pack extra layers and rain gear. "The hiking is moderate with multiple trails and great views. The campsites are a little cramped unless you have a boat or are a ultralight back packer and want to either cross the lake by boat or hike a few miles to a camp site," advises a Donnell Pond camper.
Look for sites with amenities: Some locations offer more comfort. "The owners are so nice the staff is beyond nice. They will deliver wood ice pretty much anything from the general store," reports a visitor to Four Acre Woods Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping near Birch Harbor isn't RV-friendly. "The owners of this campground are the best. Ask them about their life story! All the things you need are there - firewood, water, bathrooms and showers, and even electricity at the site. Only thing is the sites are small and close together," notes a Four Acre Woods Campground visitor.
Consider alternate accommodations: Some sites offer unique options. "A true hidden gem. We had no idea there was a clothing optional site near Acadia and stumbled across this with hipcamp. A safe and lovely primitive site," shares a Rough and Raw camper about this site that accepts small RVs.
Prepare for limited hookups: Many campgrounds have basic services only. "There is one shared porta potty available for use for all of the campsites. The land was quiet and peaceful - it is acres of blueberry fields, which create a special sense of being in nature."