Dispersed camping sites around Brewer, Maine provide low-cost or free backcountry camping opportunities throughout the region. The area features a mix of established primitive sites and more remote options along river corridors and coastal islands. Most sites sit between 200-400 feet elevation with northern Maine's continental climate bringing warm summers and cold winters, making late spring through early fall the optimal camping season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Machias River offers productive fishing for various species throughout the camping areas. One camper at Machias River Camp off Route 9 noted, "Super cool mixed use land with established campsites. 6 or 7 in total I think. Right on Machias river." Another visitor mentioned catching "smallmouth bass, chubs and trout in the river" using "black and silver jerk baits."
Island exploration: Sea kayakers can access several remote island camping spots through Maine Island Trail Association membership. Marshall Island provides exceptional stargazing opportunities according to one visitor: "Sand Cove is perfect for a beach fire and stargazing on a clear night—some of the best stargazing spots we've ever seen!"
Swimming access: Several dispersed sites offer direct water access for swimming during summer months. A camper described one location stating, "The creek is so close to the sites!" making it convenient for cooling off on hot days.
What campers like
Affordability: Free rustic camping near Brewer, Maine ranks as a top attraction for budget-conscious travelers. A visitor to Machias Rips described it as "Amazing FREE Camp Site for All Types of Campers!" highlighting the value proposition for those seeking no-cost options.
Accessibility: Many sites balance remoteness with relatively easy access. One camper at Buckle Island described it as "a perfect island for those new to sea kayak camping as the sandy shore, which is exposed for a good portion of the day, is easy to land on and a short walk to a trail into the woods."
Solitude: The remote locations provide peaceful camping experiences away from crowds. A camper described one spot as "Super quiet and remote. We just drove in, found a spot and enjoyed." Most dispersed sites have adequate spacing between camping areas for privacy.
What you should know
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs significantly between locations and carriers. One camper reported, "Most Cell phone carriers won't have service back at the camp, I myself had to drive 20 Minutes up the road for signal." However, another noted, "we had 4 bars of LTE service (AT&T) which was nice."
Water requirements: Island camping requires careful planning for water needs. A Wheat Island visitor advised: "Come prepared with fresh water (there is no fresh water for filtering) and wag bags (no toilets)."
Seasonal insects: Bug protection is essential during warmer months. One reviewer warned, "Camp sites today are very buggy—bring your repellent and/or netting." Another camper noted, "We thought we were passed mosquito season in early September, but alas, they were pretty bad at sunset."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection considerations: When primitive camping with children, choose locations with adequate space and safe water access. A visitor to Machias Rips noted the site has "about 5 spots. Some are rough and not super flat, but it's pretty and the river is right there."
Pet-friendly options: For families camping with dogs, note that some areas offer limited walking trails. One camper observed, "Only real negative for me was nowhere to really walk my dogs, nothing even close to a trail nearby. Just the highway."
Bathroom facilities: Unlike most primitive sites, Machias Rips Campsite offers basic restroom facilities. A camper noted, "There is also a relatively new and quite clean pit toilet available for use," making it more suitable for families with young children compared to other dispersed options.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive camping around Brewer can challenge larger vehicles. One camper mentioned, "The dirt road leading to the camp can be easily missed if not paying attention! But is clearly marked with a blue sign at the head of the road." Another noted, "The road has a few pot holes but nothing my stock (Low to the ground) Dodge Caravan couldn't handle."
Site limitations: Most primitive camping areas have few suitable spots for larger recreational vehicles. One camper described Doliver Island as having "barely a tent space," making it unsuitable for anything beyond minimal gear. However, some sites do accommodate smaller RVs with a visitor noting, "There are also bigger sites for campers and RVs."
Limited amenities: RV campers should prepare for fully self-contained camping. A visitor explained one site is "completely off grid" with no hookups, dump stations, or water fill points available.
