Best Dispersed Camping near Bucksport, ME
The coastal waters surrounding Bucksport, Maine feature a distinctive island camping experience through the Maine Island Trail Association (MITA) network. Several offshore islands in the Deer Isle Archipelago, including Marshall Island, Buckle Island, Wheat Island, and Doliver Island, offer primitive boat-in camping opportunities for sea kayakers and small watercraft users. These dispersed sites provide a remote wilderness experience with minimal infrastructure, typically featuring just 1-2 designated camping areas per island.
Access to these island campsites requires proper planning around tides and weather conditions. As one experienced camper notes, "This can be a tricky island to land on at high tide, so plan accordingly." MITA membership is required for legitimate use of these sites, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers must be entirely self-sufficient, bringing all necessary supplies including drinking water and waste disposal equipment. "Come prepared with fresh water (there is no fresh water for filtering) and wag bags (no toilets)," advises a regular visitor. Seasonal considerations include mosquito activity, which can remain significant into early September, particularly around sunset.
The island camping experience offers exceptional natural rewards despite the logistical challenges. Marshall Island provides "some of the best stargazing spots" according to visitor reports, with Sand Cove offering a perfect location for beach fires and night sky viewing. Buckle Island features a sandy shore "exposed for a good portion of the day" making it "perfect for those new to sea kayak camping." Wheat Island provides "gorgeous views of the sun setting and full moon rising" from its southwest site. These locations serve as excellent bases for exploring nearby attractions like Isle au Haut, a remote section of Acadia National Park. The proximity to Swan's Island, with its small grocery store and fresh water access, provides a potential resupply point for extended trips through this remarkable coastal wilderness.
