Camden Hills State Park offers tent sites, RV hookups, and luxury camping accommodations across 5,700 acres just three miles from downtown Camden. The park's elevation ranges from sea level to 800 feet at Mount Battie's summit, providing unique camping conditions with ocean breezes and forest cover. The midcoast Maine location features a humid continental climate with summer temperatures typically between 60-80°F.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Duck Puddle Campground provides waterfront sites with private docks for launching kayaks directly onto the lake. "We stayed in the early fall and could only imagine how perfect the beach would be midsummer. Everyone was so friendly and we can't wait to come back!" one visitor at Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls noted after enjoying water activities.
Hiking trails: The extensive network at Camden Hills State Park Campground offers options from easy walks to advanced treks. "It's great to be able to do numerous hikes without having to leave the park," explains a reviewer who appreciated the direct trail access from their site.
Local exploration: Small coastal towns surround the camping areas. "We drove to Belfast and the Fort Knox... Overall we would visit again for sure," shared a visitor who used Searsport Shores Ocean Campground as their base for exploring nearby attractions.
What campers like
Oceanfront camping spots: Waterfront sites at several campgrounds provide direct ocean access. "The campground is beautiful with a lot of space for kids and/or dogs to run around, including a jungle gym, basketball court, volleyball, and a dog run," reported a camper about their experience at Searsport Shores.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear coastal skies offer excellent night viewing. "For stargazers, the short walk across the street to the beach will give you some unbelievable views of the milky way when the night is at peak darkness," notes a reviewer about Seawall Campground.
Community activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular events. "Activities started up again this year, with events such as kids' crafts, a kids vs adults water gun fight, cornhole competition, and a DJ for an evening of dancing - just on the weekend we were there," explains a visitor to Sennebec Lake Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most glamping close to Camden, Maine operates from May through October. "Glamping season typically runs from mid May-mid October, with walk-in only starting early September," reports a Camden Hills State Park visitor.
Shower access: Not all facilities include on-site showers. "Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water," notes a Seawall Campground visitor, highlighting the importance of planning for bathing.
Site spacing varies: Some locations offer more privacy than others. "The sites are a decent size and the campground is fairly quiet at night," mentioned a visitor about their experience at Sennebec Lake Campground when comparing to more crowded options.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "There is a small pavilion for campground-communal lobster/clam bakes. Showers, laundry, playground, and small camp store are all available," reports a visitor to Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls.
Beach options: Water access points vary widely in quality. "The lake is a decent swimming temp. The bugs were kind of vicious," warns a camper at Town Line Camping, providing important context for families planning water activities.
Educational opportunities: Several sites offer nature programs. "They have casual jam sessions every night around the bonfire (bring your instrument and they'll fit you in!) and the lobster bake on Saturdays - don't even get me started," shared an enthusiastic visitor to Searsport Shores Ocean Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Some locations offer limited RV-friendly spots. "We have a 35ft RV, and we faced no issues getting in and out of the property and the sites across the water were level, with no extra leveling needed," notes a Sennebec Lake Campground visitor describing luxury camping accommodations.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by site. "Approximately, half the sites have water and 30/50 amp electric and the others are no hookups," explains a Camden Hills State Park visitor, noting that the campground website has a helpful map showing which sites offer hookups.
Road conditions: Interior roads at some campgrounds present challenges. "This campground has a wonderful location and every amenity. It does however need lots of upgrades. By this I mean better roads, modernized bathrooms etc.," cautions a visitor to Lake Pemaquid Campground.
