Pet friendly camping near Brewer, Maine offers diverse accommodation options within a 45-minute radius. The region features a mix of lakefront, wooded, and amenity-rich campgrounds that operate primarily from May through October. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F, making it comfortable for outdoor activities without excessive heat.
What to do
Kayaking on Branch Lake: Branch Lake Camping Area provides direct water access with a 26.5-mile perimeter and 124-foot maximum depth. "We sat our chairs in the water and cooled down everyday and floated on our noodles. Great relaxing place," notes B M. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound: "We had loons come in close to our site. Saw an Eagle too."
Visit Fort Knox Historic Site: Located near Shady Oaks Campground and Cabins, this 19th-century granite fortress offers guided and self-guided tours. "Beautiful pool!! Tent site had a simple lean to that helped tremendously," reports Tammy H. about nearby accommodations.
Hiking in Acadia National Park: Just under an hour from Brewer, the park offers dozens of trails. At Blackwoods Campground, "walking distance to the ocean, the park loop road and miles of hiking trails. Easy to access site using gps or maps provided by national park," shares Paige B.
Shopping and dining in Ellsworth: "The town of Ellsworth has everything you need. Walmart, home depot, the Global beverage store, laundry places, and best of all Martha's Diner. The best eggs benedict with ham," recommends B M. who stayed at Branch Lake Camping Area.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Pumpkin Patch RV Resort campers appreciate the well-designed layouts. "There is pretty good space between sites so you don't feel cramped or right on top of your neighbor. Most sites are level and there are long pull thrus so you don't have to unhitch if you are only staying one night," notes Nancy W.
Clean facilities: The maintenance standards impress visitors throughout the region. At Parks Pond Campground, Eric H. observed: "Restrooms were clean. I witnessed staff checking on them several times." Similarly, Rick noted at Pushaw Lake Campground, "The camp store had a nice indoor dining area with views toward the lake."
Friendly staff: Campgrounds consistently receive praise for helpful personnel. At Paul Bunyan Campground, new camper Tasha H. shared: "That camping could be so easy and fun! This is my first time actually camping in a tent for fun. The showers are nice and hot, it's quiet here at night, and it's such a chill atmosphere."
Waterfront access: Lake and ocean views enhance the camping experience. Julian M. from Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA states: "We rented a site next to the ocean, and it was great!" Similarly, James L. at Branch Lake Camping Area noted their "lot was a little small but was right on the ocean. It was such a beautiful spot."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advanced booking, especially during peak summer months. At Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA, "You reserve a type of site, and then for an additional fee can reserve a specific site, if desired," explains Heather C.
Site privacy varies: Some campgrounds offer more seclusion than others. Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA is "a very, very busy campground. If you are looking for privacy and peace and quiet, this is not the place to go," warns Heather C. In contrast, Rick G. notes at Pumpkin Patch RV Resort: "Sites are very clean, good space, well laid out and pretty level."
Mobile repair services: RV issues can be addressed locally. B M. shares: "We found a great mobile Repairman that fixed our slide out while we were there. His name is Chris Burbelo his number is (207) 322-4526. He did a great job."
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate between May and October. Check specific dates as Parks Pond Campground operates "mid May to mid October," while Pumpkin Patch RV Resort runs "May 1 - Oct 15."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: While some campgrounds cater more to adults, others offer family activities. Bangor Holden KOA visitor Abby G. reports: "Great family oriented Campground! Lots of organized activities and great Bingo on Saturday night. We did the pancake breakfast for donation, crafts, and wagon ride during the day as well as enjoyed the well kept pool."
Beach access considerations: Lakes provide safer swimming than oceanfront options. James L. found Branch Lake Camping Area suitable for families: "Very friendly staff, very open to our changing plans. Nice peaceful lake view and access."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule morning and evening nature walks for best wildlife viewing. At Blackwoods Campground, campers can spot diverse wildlife: "The campground was clean and beautiful. We were able to walk to the shuttle pickup and ride it to all stops in the park," notes Roxanne R.
Pet-specific accommodations: For those traveling with dogs, note that Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA has designated pet areas, while Pumpkin Patch RV Resort offers "a new dog exercise area which has water and toys and is long enough for our Labrador retriever to chase a ball," according to Nancy W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: For optimal comfort, consider size and hookup requirements. Jason E. recommends Pumpkin Patch RV Resort: "This place is excellent! The staff are friendly, the park is quiet, clean, well maintained and spacious. If you are planning on staying around Bangor, this is the place!"
Utility connections: Most campgrounds offer various hookup options. Nancy W. observes at Pumpkin Patch RV Resort: "Our site was a full hook-up pull thru which was perfect for our one-night stay. All the hook-ups were well-placed and we did not need extensions to connect."
Off-season advantages: Consider camping before or after peak summer months for better availability. Cold River Campground operates from "May 1 to October 31" with 86 sites, though Ryan notes: "Pretty small site but nice layout. Wifi was terrible."
Television reception: For RVers who appreciate entertainment options, Nancy W. mentions at Pumpkin Patch RV Resort: "We received about twenty over-the-air channels with our television antenna. Nearby is shopping, a grocery, fuel stations, restaurants and more."
