Tent camping near Blue Hill, Maine offers options from remote islands to blueberry fields, with varying levels of facilities. Most sites are primitive and seasonal, operating May through October when temperatures range from 50-75°F. Access to many camping areas requires planning, as Blue Hill sits along Maine's rocky coastline where tides can change water levels by 9-14 feet.
What to do
Kayak to island campsites: Several islands in the Deer Isle Archipelago offer primitive camping accessible only by water. Nathan Island provides space for 1-2 small tents near Isle au Haut, part of Acadia National Park. "We stayed 2 nights on Nathan and paddled to Duck Harbor for some day hiking on Isle au Haut," writes one camper.
Hike Schoodic Mountain: The trail network at Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land offers moderate hikes with excellent views. "The hiking is moderate with multiple trails and great views," notes a camper. Another visitor adds: "We went fishing and did catch a couple of fish! These are public/free and first come first serve sites."
Pick blueberries in season: Some of the best tent camping near Blue Hill, Maine includes opportunities to experience local agriculture. "Chill out and watch the sheep, or pick your own blueberries alongside their raking crew in their organic wild blueberry barrens. This experience is available only during blueberry season in late July and early August," describes a visitor to Continuous Harmony Farm.
What campers like
Secluded beach camping: At Donnell Pond, campers appreciate the combination of beach and mountain views. "This place is so breathtaking with the views! We boated to the boat with our gear and camped there. There are two beaches that you can camp on that have sites with fire rings and picnic tables."
Dark skies for stargazing: Saddleback Island and other offshore campsites provide exceptional night sky viewing. "With a deep, rocky shore, it's the perfect place to make dinner and watch the sunrise or set, all with beautiful views of Mount Desert Island, the home of Acadia National Park."
Unique camping experiences: Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss offers camping in rolling blueberry fields. One camper noted, "We absolutely loved this site, it was nothing we had ever experienced before. The views were incredible, we swam in the water everyday, and picked/ate the blueberries!"
What you should know
Prepare for foggy conditions: Coastal fog can develop quickly around Blue Hill. A camper at Shivers Island advises: "The fog can roll in at any minute so come prepared with a chart, compass, bearings between islands/markers and a marine radio."
Limited site availability: Some campgrounds have very few sites. Duck Harbor Campground on Isle au Haut has only 5 sites and reservations open April 1st at 10am EST. "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."
Waste disposal requirements: Island camping requires proper waste management. When camping on Shivers Island and other Maine islands, "you are required to use Wag Bags instead of digging a cat hole to dispose of human waste."
Tips for camping with families
Choose mainland sites for easier access: Families may prefer mainland camping areas like Donnell Pond. "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.
Plan for weather changes: The Blue Hill area can experience rapid weather shifts. Bring appropriate clothing layers and rain gear, especially when visiting coastal sites where temperatures can drop suddenly.
Consider a lean-to for convenience: Duck Harbor Campground offers lean-to structures that provide partial shelter. "Each of the 5 sites offers a classic lean-to structure with a campfire ring and a picnic table," explains a camper, making it easier for families to set up camp.
Tips for RVers
Limited RV options in the area: Most tent camping near Blue Hill offers few amenities for RVs. Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss accommodates small RVs but without hookups. A camper notes: "We stayed in campsite 2, where the land is open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv. It is dry camping, with no hookups, and generators are not allowed."
Consider site privacy when booking: At some locations, RV sites may be close together. One camper at Four Acre Woods Campground observed: "When we arrived we were shocked to see how close together the sites are (we heard our neighbor snoring)."
Prepare for self-sufficient camping: Even at established campgrounds, services may be limited. "The area was very quiet - at night we only heard the crickets and the wind," explains a visitor to Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss, highlighting the peaceful but primitive nature of camping in the Blue Hill region.
