RV campgrounds near Calais, Maine serve as entry points to the easternmost regions of the United States. Located along the US-Canadian border, this area experiences seasonal temperature variations with summer highs averaging 75°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Many campgrounds in this region offer waterfront access with notable tidal variations that can exceed 20 feet, affecting water activities and kayak launching.
What to do
Wildlife watching along Johnson Bay: At Sunset Point RV Park in Lubec, campers can observe diverse marine life. "After a busy morning of hiking or paddling we loved hanging out at our campsite in the afternoon and watching the seals, bald eagles, seabirds, and the tides come and go," notes a visitor who appreciated the natural setting.
Kayaking at high tide: Water activities require planning around significant tidal changes. "Beware that the tidal range is around 20 feet so make sure you paddle around high tide or you will have to cross a mucky, seaweed covered, rocky clam flat to get back to shore," advises an experienced paddler from Sunset Point.
Visit Quoddy Head State Park: The easternmost point in the United States offers hiking opportunities with coastal views. "Nearby is Quoddy Head State Park which has some beautiful oceanfront hiking trails and a picturesque lighthouse," notes a camper who explored the area from Seaview Campground.
What campers like
Lobster cooking amenities: Several campgrounds offer unique seafood cooking options. "You can sign up in the office for a lobster set-up which includes a pot, burner, and propane to cook lobsters, clams, or crabs at your site," explains a visitor at Sunset Point RV Park, highlighting this distinctive local experience.
Rustic waterfront experience: Jonesport Campground provides authentic Maine coastal camping. "If you like a rustic campground in a beautiful place, check out Jonesport Campground. The views are quintessential Maine with lobster boats bobbing in the water and the tides moving in and out," shares a reviewer who appreciated the authentic experience.
International exploration: Border proximity allows for unique day trips. "Bring your passport and cross over to Campobello Island which was the summer home of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt and is now a museum open for tours," recommends a camper, noting the additional hiking opportunities and lighthouses on the Canadian island.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Strong winds affect multiple aspects of camping. "Warning: do not leave your awning out while you are away from your camper as the winds can really pick up in the afternoon and damage them," cautions a Sunset Point RV Park visitor with first-hand experience.
Limited cell service: Communication connectivity varies throughout the region. "Our Verizon phone and hotspot worked well. Not sure about over-the-air television because we used our portable Dish satellite because we had a clear view to the sky," explains a camper at Machias Rips Campsite, providing useful connectivity insights.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Facility quality differs significantly between campgrounds. "The restrooms were super clean (although a little dated) and there is a laundry with three sets of washers and dryers for $1.50 each," notes one reviewer, while another mentions, "There is a vault toilet and a port a potty" at a more rustic location.
Tips for camping with families
Free camping options: Budget-conscious families can find no-cost sites. "Great free off grid camping near Canadian border. Camp sites today are very buggy - bring your repellent and/or netting," advises a visitor to Machias Rips Campsite, highlighting both the value and necessary preparation.
Unique accommodation options: Cottonwood Camping & RV Park offers distinctive lodging experiences beyond traditional camping. "This is the first campground we have stayed at that has ATV trail access, horse friendly camping, full hookups, pull through sites, tent camping, tent rentals, teepee rentals, 'tiny bird cabin', and a tree house," shares an impressed visitor.
Covered picnic areas: Sunset Point Campground in Harrington provides weather protection. "Nice bathrooms, cheap firewood, and picnic table + shelter at every tent site. Only heads up is that the sites aren't very private," notes a camper who appreciated the convenience despite the limited privacy.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal access limitations: Most RV campgrounds Calais, Maine and surrounding areas have limited operating seasons. "We have great Verizon signal, so didn't really need it. The grounds are well cared for, with lots of grassy spaces. They also maintain a mowed pathway down to the 'beach' for water access and to launch a kayak," reports an RVer about site conditions.
Site selection strategy: At many parks, location within the campground significantly impacts experience. "12A and 12B are close to the water with great views, but only suitable for smaller camper vans and trailers. Of the other RV sites, 12, 13, and 16 are nice because they are at the end of their rows so there are neighbors on only one side," advises a seasoned RVer about optimal positioning.
Preparation for remote locations: RVers should arrive fully stocked. "Jonesport has a hardware store, small grocery store, two places to get pizza and a few other shops scattered here or there. You are best to bring everything you need (you can stock up in the grocery in Columbia Falls before you head south off route one)," recommends a thorough reviewer about provisioning for remote coastal camping.
