The Deer Isle Archipelago off the coast of Brooklin, Maine offers secluded camping on nearly 200 islands in Penobscot Bay, with sites scattered across both the open ocean and more protected coves. Summer temperatures average 70-75°F during peak season, while spring and fall drop to 50-60°F with increased fog. Camping near Brooklin isn't just about island adventures, as mainland options provide easier access with scenic views of the surrounding coastal landscape.
What to do
Hike Acadia's remote section: Isle au Haut, accessible by mailboat from Stonington, offers a more secluded Acadia National Park experience with five lean-to campsites at Duck Harbor Campground. "There are several miles of moderate hikes. Starting in 2018 reservations will be online starting April 1. The campground is open mid May to mid October but the mailboat only goes to the campground from late June to late September; otherwise a 5 mile walk from town," notes Patricia P.
Swim in freshwater: The mainland offers swimming alternatives to the cold ocean. At Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land, campers can enjoy beach camping with mountain views. "This place is so breathtaking with the views! We boated to the boat with our gear and camped there. We were able to swim here as well. We went fishing and did catch a couple of fish!" explains Amanda F.
Blueberry picking: During late July and early August, pick wild blueberries at local farms. At Continuous Harmony Farm, "Park your van, or pop your tent, next to the pond. Chill out and watch the sheep, or pick your own blueberries alongside their raking crew in their organic wild blueberry barrens," notes Ashley F.
What campers like
Private camping spots: Some island sites feel completely remote despite proximity to other campers. At Nathan Island, campers appreciate the seclusion: "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."
Wildlife viewing: The area's natural beauty extends beyond scenery to wildlife encounters. Camping at Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss provides opportunities to observe local wildlife: "The land was quiet and peaceful - it is acres of blueberry fields, which create a special sense of being in nature. The site we were at had a nice tree, which framed the site. The area was very quiet - at night we only heard the crickets and the wind," shares Heather C.
Escape from crowds: Many sites near Brooklin allow tent camping away from tourist centers. At Donnell Pond, one camper valued this aspect: "The hiking is moderate with multiple trails and great views... Pros: free camping, not swamped by tourists, fire permitted, great hiking and views, and a beautiful pond that's more like a lake."
What you should know
Reservations and timing: Duck Harbor Campground has an extremely competitive reservation system. "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," explains one camper.
Site identification challenges: Some private campgrounds have minimal signage. At Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss, "it was a little difficult to find our site as there was nothing labeled, and I tried contacting the host but never received a response. However, once we found the site we were immediately in love."
Transport logistics: For island camping, transportation planning is crucial. Many campers use Old Quarry Ocean Adventures in Stonington as a launch point for kayaking to the islands, offering parking, rentals, and a place to leave float plans.
Tips for camping with families
Choose mainland sites: For families new to tent camping in Brooklin, Maine, mainland sites like Donnell Pond provide easier access with similar views. "The hike in is only about 1/2 mile so it's totally doable even if you need to make two trips. The spots are secluded enough but not isolated," notes Erik C.
Consider noise factors: Early-morning lobster boats can disrupt sleep for kids. Several island campers recommend bringing earplugs for light sleepers.
Pack entertainment: The blueberry barrens provide natural playgrounds. At Rough and Raw, campers enjoy the primitive setting: "A true hidden gem. We had no idea there was a clothing optional site near Acadia and stumbled across this with hipcamp. A safe and lovely primitive site."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Few sites accommodate RVs in the immediate Brooklin area. The sites that do exist are often small and close together. At Four Acre Woods Campground, a reviewer noted: "All the things you need are there - firewood, water, bathrooms and showers, and even electricity at the site. Only thing is the sites are small and close together."
Consider tent camping instead: Even RV owners sometimes opt for tent sites due to access limitations. Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss offers open fields suitable for smaller RVs: "We stayed in campsite 2, where the land is open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv. It is dry camping, with no hookups, and generators are not allowed."
Proximity to amenities: Most camping near Brooklin requires self-sufficiency. Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss places campers near small towns: "You are close to Castine, Ellsworth, Blue Hill, Deer Isle and Stonington. There are numerous hiking trails in the area that can be found on All Trails, as well as easy places to kayak from."
