Tent camping near Bremen, Maine offers remote sites adjacent to the rocky Atlantic coastline and pine forests. The region receives approximately 47 inches of annual rainfall with summer temperatures averaging 75°F during the day and 55°F at night. Despite the mild temperatures, campers should prepare for sudden weather changes common to this coastal area, particularly in late summer when overnight temperatures can drop into the 40s.
What to do
Kayaking off Stonington: Launch from Old Quarry Ocean Adventures to access numerous island camping options. "The nearby village of Stonington has all the things you need for an island camping trip. You can even rent kayaks and nearly all the gear you need from Old Quarry Ocean Adventures," shares one camper.
Blueberry picking: During late July and early August, visit Continuous Harmony Farm for organic blueberry picking. "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, and there is a fee!" notes an experienced visitor.
Hiking on Isle au Haut: Camp on Nathan Island and take a day trip to nearby Isle au Haut for hiking. A camper explains: "We stayed 2 nights on Nathan and paddled to Duck Harbor for some day hiking on Isle au Haut." The island offers several miles of moderate trails with coastal views.
What campers like
Solitude on private islands: Many islands near Bremen offer complete privacy for tent campers. At Nathan Island, "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."
Stargazing opportunities: The lack of light pollution creates exceptional night skies. At Saddleback Island, campers enjoy "beautiful views of Mount Desert Island, the home of Acadia National Park" and open night skies perfect for stargazing.
Farm-to-table experiences: At Tops'l Farm, "We participated in a weekend camping event that included a farm to table meal on Saturday evening in their barn. The farm dinners offer delicious food with ingredients from local farms. The food is delicious, simple and very satisfying all at the same time."
What you should know
Reservation challenges: For popular sites like Duck Harbor Campground, planning is critical. "What they mean is 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."
Boat access considerations: Tides affect island access significantly. For Saddleback Island, "the tide in this area is significant (9-14 vertical feet), and landing at high tide is nearly impossible on Saddleback (and many other islands)."
Water planning: Fresh water isn't available on most islands. At Nathan Island, there's "no drinking water," so campers must bring all they need, factoring in both drinking and cooking requirements.
Weather preparedness: Fog is common and can disorient kayakers. One camper warns that "the fog can roll in at any minute so come prepared with a chart, compass, bearings between islands/markers and a marine radio."
Tips for camping with families
Platform tent sites: Tiny Cabins of Maine offers easier tent camping for families with young children. "The tent camping amenities, including the pop-up toilet and sturdy wooden platform, were thoughtfully provided. The fire pit and picnic table were perfect for evening gatherings, and the hammock added an extra touch of relaxation."
Flat campsites with amenities: Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss provides level sites in open blueberry fields. "The owner had a picnic table set up with flower boxes in it, and there was a nice fire ring. They will sell you wood if you need it."
Recreation options: Family-friendly activities abound at certain sites. At Tiny Cabins of Maine, "We enjoyed the pub's games and even tried our hand at axe throwing. Kayaking in the pond was a highlight, thanks to the convenient dock."
Site selection: For larger families, consider private campgrounds with more space. "There are 4 total campsites, and each offers a slightly different view and sense of privacy" at Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss, allowing families to spread out.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent sites near Bremen aren't suitable for RVs, but some exceptions exist. At Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss, "the land is open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv."
Dry camping preparation: No hookups are available at most sites accepting RVs. "It is dry camping, with no hookups, and generators are not allowed" at Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss, so come prepared with fully charged batteries and full water tanks.
Privacy considerations: Despite limited RV sites, some offer good separation. "There was one other camper at site 1, and we could also see the owners house, but both were far enough away that we had a great sense of privacy."
