Glamping near Brewer, Maine offers both waterfront options and secluded forest retreats within easy driving distance. Located in eastern Maine along the Penobscot River, this region experiences warm summers with average July temperatures around 80°F and cool nights in the 50s. Most luxury camping accommodations operate seasonally from mid-May through mid-October, with peak reservations required in July and August.
What to do
Water recreation at Branch Lake: Branch Lake Camping area provides direct water access for kayaking and swimming. A visitor noted, "We sat our chairs in the water and cooled down everyday and floated on our noodles. Great relaxing place."
Acadia excursions: Use Hadley's Point Campground as a convenient base for visiting Acadia National Park. "10 minute drive to Acadia NP entrance. Very clean bathrooms. Would stay again!" reports one camper. The campground connects to the Island Explorer bus route, eliminating parking concerns during peak season.
Evening entertainment: Many glamping sites host communal activities after dark. At Searsport Shores Ocean Campground, "They have casual jam sessions every night around the bonfire (bring your instrument and they'll fit you in!) and the lobster bake on Saturdays - don't even get me started."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high in positive reviews. At Paul Bunyan Campground, one first-time camper reported, "The showers are nice and hot, it's quiet here at night, and it's such a chill atmosphere. Thank you guys for making my first camping trip a fun one!"
Waterfront sites: The ability to launch directly from glamping sites draws many visitors. One Branch Lake camper shared: "We had water & electric and there is a dump station onsite. Our site was waterfront we were right off the beach. The site was level and had some shade. If you have a small camper you can pull in forward and your door opens to the water."
Community atmosphere: Many guests appreciate the social aspects of glamping sites. A Parks Pond Campground visitor noted: "Everyone there seemed so very friendly. The all around environment was very welcoming. I will definitely stay again in the future."
What you should know
Seasonal pricing variations: Rates can increase during peak summer months. Check for shoulder season discounts in May and September.
Site privacy considerations: Many luxury camping sites prioritize views over privacy. At Patten Pond Camping Resort, one camper observed: "Online check in did not work. No space between sites. My picnic table and fire ring were 6 feet from next sites sewer connection. Small beach."
Reservation requirements: Most glamping accommodations require advance booking, especially for waterfront locations. During peak season (July-August), reserve 3-6 months ahead for premium sites.
Water quality varies: Tap water quality differs between campgrounds. One Bangor Holden KOA visitor warned about water issues: "water smells like a bog don't drink it.. the electrical grid can't hold up.. internet is slightly better than dial up."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Several glamping sites offer swimming pools as alternatives to natural water bodies. At Bangor Holden KOA, guests report: "We did the pancake breakfast for donation, crafts, and wagon ride during the day as well as enjoyed the well kept pool. The kids loved the playground and the ice cream window."
Playground facilities: For families with younger children, look for sites with play equipment. One Pleasant Hill Campground visitor mentioned: "Campground has playground, pool and rec room. Offers activities - but mainly directed toward children."
Laundry considerations: Extended family stays benefit from on-site laundry facilities. Cold River Campground offers laundry services, which can reduce packing requirements for multi-week stays.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Check if glamping sites require additional leveling blocks. Many visitors note that sites throughout the region vary in levelness.
Hookup positions: Confirm hookup locations before booking. At Branch Lake, a reviewer advised: "We had water & electric and there is a dump station onsite. Our site was waterfront we were right off the beach. The site was level and had some shade."
Staff assistance: Some campgrounds provide parking guidance. At Hadley's Point, "We reserved a full hook up (back in), and were directed by an employee to our site. We incurred damage to our vehicle relying on the eyes/directions of an employee."
