Dispersed camping near Brooksville, Maine revolves around the Maine Island Trail Association (MITA) managed islands in the Penobscot Bay region. This coastal area experiences average summer temperatures around 70°F with water temperatures remaining cool even in July and August. Strong winds can develop suddenly in this region, making weather monitoring essential for safe boating to these remote camping destinations.
What to do
Explore neighboring islands: From Wheat Island, paddlers can access Isle au Haut, part of Acadia National Park. One camper noted this makes Wheat Island "perfect 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."
Night sky viewing: Marshall Island offers exceptional stargazing opportunities at Sand Cove. A visitor shared: "Sand Cove is perfect for a beach fire and stargazing on a clear night—some of the best stargazing spots we've ever seen!"
Beach combing: Doliver Island features a unique shoreline for shell collectors. According to a camper: "Gorgeous shell covered beach and a beautiful view of Isle au Haut, just next door."
What campers like
Beginner-friendly landing spots: Buckle Island is particularly suitable for novice sea kayakers. One reviewer mentioned: "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."
Sunset views: Wheat Island campsites offer spectacular evening vistas. A camper noted they "had a gorgeous view of the sun setting and full moon rising" from the larger site on the southwest side.
Lower insect activity on certain islands: Marshall Island reportedly has fewer insects than neighboring islands. One camper observed: "Despite the fact that the other islands had pesky mosquitoes, this site had none."
What you should know
Landing conditions vary with tides: Several islands require careful planning for arrivals and departures. Wheat Island can be "a tricky island to land on at high tide, so plan accordingly."
Island size and capacity limitations: Islands have varying capacities with some being quite restricted. Doliver Island is described as "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."
Fresh water requirements: No potable water sources exist on any of the islands. Paddlers must carry all necessary drinking water or know alternatives: "If you happen to need a food or water resupply, Swan's Island is a short paddle away and has a very small grocery store and town office with fresh water."
Tips for camping with families
Choose islands with adequate space: Some islands offer more room than others. Marshall Island provides "a truly gorgeous wooded area with a tent platform and a picnic table at each site," making it more comfortable for family groups.
Plan shorter paddling routes: For families with children, consider the distances between islands. Buckle Island offers a manageable distance from mainland launch points with "a sandy shore, which is exposed for a good portion of the day" providing easier loading and unloading.
Conservation opportunities: Involve children in stewardship activities. On Marshall Island, "if you do a beach clean-up during your stay and send in a picture, you will receive a Maine Coast Heritage Trust hat!"
Tips from RVers
Alternative boat access: Without direct RV camping on the islands, consider hiring local water taxis or guides if sea kayaking isn't feasible. From mainland Brooksville, boating services can transport camping gear to islands like Marshall Island with its two designated camping areas.
Mainland staging locations: While preparing for island camping trips, RVers can temporarily park at certain public boat launches around Brooksville and the Deer Isle peninsula. Plan for secure parking arrangements when leaving vehicles during multi-day island excursions.
Consider base camping alternatives: For those wanting occasional forays to the islands, consider establishing a mainland base camp at an RV-friendly location and taking day trips to explore the dispersed camping islands around Brooksville.
