Camden Hills State Park offers 107 sites along Maine's rugged midcoast region. Located 1.5 miles from downtown Camden at an elevation of about 800 feet, the park provides direct access to over 30 miles of hiking trails through 5,700 acres of forested hills. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F during the day with cooler evening temperatures in the 50s, especially in early and late season.
What to do
Explore local harbors and waterfronts: Lobster Buoy Campsites provides direct access to South Thomaston's waterfront. "We wanted to love this campground because of the location, but just couldn't get there. It is really tight for big rigs and many of the sites are just o.k. being too close, unlevel, or with no view. The location is great, if that is what you are after. Not too far away is the best lobster pound in the world– McLoons which has the best food and most amazing views," writes Nancy W.
Kayak the protected bays: Searsport Shores Ocean Campground offers direct ocean access for kayakers. "The tent sites are completely separate from the RVs and are in the woods, beautifully maintained. The gardens, grounds and bathroom/laundry amenities that are offered are kept in beautiful clean condition," notes April W. Most waterfront campgrounds provide beach or dock access for launching small watercraft.
Visit local small towns: Most campgrounds sit within 20 minutes of charming coastal villages. "We are full time RV'rs and have stayed at lots of campgrounds but this place holds a special place in our hearts. Nice hiking trails around the property that our dog just loves," reports Dan G. about Searsport Shores. Local towns offer museums, farmers markets, and local dining options that change seasonally.
What campers like
Cedar showers at private campgrounds: Meguniticook by the Sea Campground receives consistent praise for bathroom facilities. "The bathrooms are clean and the cedar showers are awesome! We've been excited to come back here since we left," writes Chelsea. Several reviewers specifically mention these cedar-built shower facilities as a highlight of their stay.
Waterfront access and views: Sennebec Lake Campground offers both lakefront and wooded sites. "We love the proximity to the lake with easy access for kayaking and swimming. New ownership this year resulted in some updates, as well as the addition of glamping tents near the beach," says Pam A. Most lake and ocean-front campgrounds provide swimming areas during summer months.
Organized activities for families: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Camden organize community events. "The owners host a Lobster bake on Saturdays and it was so good. The staff was very friendly and helpful. They also had great showers with hot water! And free coffee in the office at 8," reports Mona S. about Meguniticook by the Sea. Many campgrounds offer weekend programming during peak season from June through August.
What you should know
Early reservations essential for waterfront sites: Prime waterfront locations book months ahead. "We arrived just a few days after the park opened for the season so the campground was especially quiet. Our large back-in site was set in an open sunny area but most of the sites are nicely tucked into the woods with plenty of space between them," notes Nancy W. about Camden Hills State Park.
Price variations and extra fees: Duck Puddle Campground and other private campgrounds may charge additional fees beyond the base rate. One camper at Megunticook Campground noted: "$30 site lock to ensure you get the site you want when you reserve. I took a chance and was able to get the site I reserved without paying this fee." Many campgrounds charge for WiFi access and dump station use.
Limited cell service at some locations: Internet connectivity varies widely across the region. "The park does have free wifi at most campsites and the signal was very strong. (Sites #68-81 do not have wifi)," notes one Camden Hills visitor. Some private campgrounds charge for WiFi access while others include it with your stay.
Tips for camping with families
Consider water access options: Continuous Harmony Farm offers pond-side camping for families. "The space is gorgeous, right next to a pond. Important to know though, there are several campsites. It's unclear how many campers could be there on any given night but it could be many," notes Adam B. Many families prefer lake access over ocean access for swimming with children.
Look for pet-friendly campground amenities: Dog friendly campgrounds near Camden typically provide designated pet areas. "We are pop-up campers. We had plenty of room for our camper. Dog friendly. Bathrooms were very clean," writes Jimmy M. about Camden Hills State Park. Most campgrounds require dogs to remain on leash at all times including on trails and at the campsite.
Check playground conditions: Some campgrounds maintain better play facilities than others. One camper noted at Duck Puddle: "Playground not updated since the 80s. Game room is 6 claw machines, 2 arcade games, and a broken jukebox packed in a tiny room." Camden Hills State Park similarly has limited playground equipment compared to private campgrounds that typically offer more recreational facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection affects leveling needs: Many Camden area campgrounds have uneven terrain. "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," writes Jason G. about Sennebec Lake Campground. Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for most campgrounds in the area.
Tree clearance for large rigs: Campgrounds with mature trees may present challenges. "There are a limited number of sites for those over 35 feet and the gravel roads are easy to navigate in a big rig," notes one Camden Hills State Park visitor. Many RVers report needing to go slowly through wooded campgrounds to avoid low-hanging branches.
Seasonal site availability: Most Camden area campgrounds operate from mid-May through mid-October. Several close earlier in September or limit services. Check individual campground websites for current operating dates as seasonal opening and closing dates can shift based on weather conditions and staffing.
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