Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls in Brooklin sits on Maine's Blue Hill Peninsula, a region characterized by granite highlands reaching 940 feet at Blue Hill Mountain with an average summer temperature of 70°F. The peninsula extends into Penobscot Bay, creating numerous protected coves and harbors ideal for kayaking access to campsites. Several campgrounds in the area operate from mid-May through mid-October, with the quietest camping season occurring after Labor Day.
What to do
Kayak launching access: At Searsport Shores Ocean Campground, visitors can paddle directly from the property. "We didnt ocean front for pur RV this time cause we booked a week before but the ocean view sites are spectacular with some offering a deck facing the water!! At low tide you can do fun rock designs on the shore," notes one camper who enjoyed the water access.
Lobster dinner experiences: Many campgrounds offer authentic Maine lobster dinners as a special event. At Searsport Shores, "I had the lobster dinner they offered and it was excellent," shares a visitor. Some campgrounds have arrangements with local lobstermen who provide fresh catch for campers to prepare themselves.
Stargazing opportunities: The Blue Hill region offers exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. At Seawall Campground, "For stargazers, the short walk across the street to the beach will give you some unbelievable views of the milky way when the night is at peak darkness," reports a regular visitor.
What campers like
Natural swimming spots: Rather than chlorinated pools, many campers prefer the natural swimming areas. At Lamoine State Park Campground, "You could launch a kayak from the park. The day use are is lovely, as is the launch area." Another visitor mentioned, "Quick walk to a beautiful beach with lots of rocks and shells to comb through! Sunset was epic!"
Proximity without crowds: The Blue Hill peninsula offers accessibility to popular attractions without the tourist congestion. According to one Lamoine visitor, it's a "Great place to camp outside the crazy tourist packed Acadia but only a 25 minute drive to the park. Very nice sites, flush toilets and showers."
Outdoor shower facilities: Many campers specifically praise the outdoor shower options at various campgrounds. At Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, a visitor noted, "Campground was quiet with spaced out sites and had a really nice outdoor shower! Lori and staff were friendly and it was easy to call and book a spot."
What you should know
First-come availability: While many campgrounds require reservations, Bar Harbor Campground operates on a first-come basis. "It's a first come first serve campground. Show up find an empty spot. Pay for it and it's yours," explains one camper who stayed for two weeks.
Site selection strategy: Research campsite layouts before booking, as quality varies significantly even within the same campground. At HTR Acadia (formerly Somes Sound View), "Do your research not all the sites here are created equal. Proximity to Acadia National Park, Southwest Harbor, and all the great things to do in the area is perfect," advises a frequent visitor.
Seasonal blueberry picking: During peak summer months, wild blueberries are available for picking at certain campgrounds. "Mid July to Mid August free blueberries campside," reports a Bar Harbor Campground visitor, highlighting one of the region's natural seasonal treats.
Tips for camping with families
Off-peak advantages: Consider camping after Labor Day for a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds. At Bass Harbor Campground, a visitor noted, "The sites are all right next to each other and very open so if there is someone next to you there's 0 privacy. It was a good basepoint though during mid-September to then explore Acadia NP."
Activity alternatives: When weather doesn't cooperate, some campgrounds offer indoor options. At Searsport Shores, "The rec room is a large but cozy place to hang out if/when it rains, with a fireplace and cozy couches," shares a family who visited with children.
Tent camping sections: For families tent camping near Blue Hill, Maine, look for campgrounds with dedicated tent areas. Bass Harbor Campground offers this arrangement: "Tent campers have a much prettier space than RV, as with most campgrounds, and they have a lot across the main road which is perfect for tent camping."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many Blue Hill peninsula campgrounds are built on uneven terrain. At Lamoine State Park, "Many sites are not flat and require significant leveling if in an rv. Some sites have more buffer than others, but in general I would not say that there is great privacy between sites."
Dump station access: For those interested in yurt camping Blue Hill, Maine or RV camping without full hookups, note the dump station availability. "All different types of sites are available from FHU, electric/water, or primitive sites. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring," explains a Bar Harbor Campground visitor who managed different setups during their stay.
Site selection for RVs: When possible, scout the campground before committing to a specific site. "Roads in the park are paved but some corners can be a little tight for big-rigs, best to unhitch your tow car up front in case you have to back up," advises an experienced RVer about Bar Harbor Campground.
