Best Dispersed Camping near Bristol, ME

Searching for a dispersed camping spot near Bristol? Dispersed camping gets you off the grid so you can disconnect from the hecticness of everyday life. Search nearby dispersed campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Bristol, ME (3)

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Showing results 1-3 of 3 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Bristol

3 Reviews of 3 Bristol Campgrounds


  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Doliver Island
    Oct. 26, 2019

    Doliver Island

    Spot for Just 1 Tent...Barely!

    One of the MITA (Maine Island Trail Association) camping areas in the Deer Isle Archipelago, this island is small with barely a tent space, but a good stop for us on our 9 day journey and a perfect launching spot for crossing Jericho Bay (4.5 miles) to Marshall Island the next day.   Gorgeous shell covered beach and a beautiful view of Isle au Haut, just next door.

    This can be a tricky island to land on at high tide, so plan accordingly. Be prepared for mosquitoes. We thought we were passed mosquito season in early September, but alas, they were pretty bad all day long. 

    Come prepared with fresh water (there is no fresh water for filtering) and wag bags (no toilets). Site is first come, first served and completely free for MITA members.

  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Buckle Island
    Oct. 25, 2019

    Buckle Island

    Perfect island for those new to sea kayak camping

    One of the MITA (Maine Island Trail Association) camping areas in the Deer Isle Archipelago, this island has 2 sites – one larger area up in the woods, the other quite small near the granite shore, but both accessible from the east side of the island. We stayed at the site by the shore and had a gorgeous view of the sun setting. 

    This is 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. 

    Come prepared with fresh water(there is no fresh water for filtering) and wag bags (no toilets). Sites are first come, first served and completely free for MITA members.

  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wheat Island
    Oct. 25, 2019

    Wheat Island

    Gorgeous Views of the Gulf

    One of the MITA (Maine Island Trail Association) camping areas in the Deer Isle Archipelago, this island has 2 sites– one very small one on the northeast side, the other perfect for larger groups on the southwest side. We stayed at the larger site and had a gorgeous view of the sun setting and full moon rising. 

    Perfect island for exploring the close-by Isle au Haut, a remote section of Acadia National Park, but very hard to get reservations at Duck Harbor Campground. This can be a tricky island to land on at high tide, so plan accordingly. 

    Be prepared for mosquitoes. We thought we were passed mosquito season in early September, but alas, they were pretty bad at sunset. Come prepared with fresh water (there is no fresh water for filtering) and wag bags (no toilets). 

    Sites are first come, first served and completely free for MITA members.



Guide to Bristol

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Bristol, Maine, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning views and unique experiences, these spots are perfect for adventurers seeking a more rustic getaway.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Bristol, Maine

  • Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially during the warmer months; for instance, Wheat Island can have a significant mosquito presence at sunset.

Dispersed campers should check out Buckle Island

  • This island is ideal for those new to sea kayak camping, offering easy access to sandy shores and scenic trails, making it a great choice for beginners at Buckle Island.

Enjoy breathtaking views while free camping near Bristol

  • For stunning sunsets and moonrises, consider Wheat Island, where you can set up camp and soak in the natural beauty of the Gulf.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Bristol, ME?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Bristol, ME is Wheat Island with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Bristol, ME?

    TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Bristol, ME, with real photos and reviews from campers.