Tent camping near Castine, Maine offers a unique opportunity to experience rural coastal New England without crowds. The region sits at the confluence of Penobscot Bay and Blue Hill Bay, creating a maritime microclimate with temperatures averaging 10-15°F cooler than inland areas during summer months. The area experiences significant tidal ranges of 9-14 feet that affect waterfront camping and water access.
What to do
Blueberry picking season: Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss provides seasonal access to organic wild blueberry fields during the late July to early August harvest. "We absolutely loved this site, it was nothing we had ever experienced before. The views were incredible, we swam in the water everyday, and picked/ate the blueberries!" according to Korie M.
Island hopping by kayak: The Deer Isle Archipelago contains numerous Maine Island Trail Association (MITA) islands accessible only by boat. "The nearby village of Stonington has everything you may need for your island camping adventure. You can even rent kayaks and most of your gear from Old Quarry Ocean Adventures," notes one Nathan Island visitor.
Day hiking on Isle au Haut: Campers at Duck Harbor Campground in Acadia National Park can explore miles of moderate hiking trails. "There are several miles of moderate hikes. Starting in 2018 reservations will be online starting April 1. The campground is open mid May to mid October but the mailboat only goes to the campground from late June to late September; otherwise a 5 mile walk from town," explains Patricia P.
What campers like
Rural farm settings: Continuous Harmony Farm offers a pastoral camping experience. "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," explains Adam B.
Separation from crowds: The small campgrounds in the area provide quiet alternatives to larger commercial facilities. At Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss, "The land was quiet and peaceful - it is acres of blueberry fields, which create a special sense of being in nature. The site we were at had a nice tree, which framed the site. The area was very quiet - at night we only heard the crickets and the wind," reports Heather C.
Self-sufficiency: True primitive camping without modern conveniences appeals to many visitors. On Shivers Island, "With a deep, rocky shore, it's the perfect place to make dinner, watch the sunrise or set, and star gaze with no city lights or trees to obstruct your view."
What you should know
Reservations system: The best tent camping near Castine, Maine often requires advance planning, particularly for Duck Harbor Campground. "Camping on in the Duck Harbor Campground is nearly the stuff of legends. This remote island off the coast of Maine only has 5 campsites in this part of Acadia National Park, and reservations are required... if you don't go online within 10 minutes of opening day, April 1st, at 10 am EST, you will miss your chance to stay here for the whole year."
Marine navigation: Island camping requires proper preparation. When visiting islands, "the fog can roll in at any minute so come prepared with a chart, compass, bearings between islands/markers and a marine radio." Additionally, "leave a float plan before you go out (Old Quarry Ocean Adventures is the perfect spot to do this, as well as launch and park for a small fee)."
Human waste disposal: Island camping has strict environmental protocols. Campers "are required to use Wag Bags instead of digging a cat hole to dispose of human waste" when staying on MITA-maintained islands.
Tips for camping with families
Proximity to water activities: Choose sites with easy water access for children. At Continuous Harmony Farm, you can "Park your van, or pop your tent, next to the pond. Chill out and watch the sheep, or pick your own blueberries alongside their raking crew in their organic wild blueberry barrens."
Site identification issues: Some smaller private campgrounds have minimal markings. "It was a little difficult to find our site as there was nothing labeled, and I tried contacting the host but never received a response. However, once we found the site we were immediately in love," explains one Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss camper.
Early morning noise: Coastal camping comes with working harbor sounds. On many islands, "you may get awakened by the sound of lobster boats motors, as they start their day pretty darn early; bring ear plugs if you are light sleeper."
Tips from RVers
Generator restrictions: Many of the smaller campgrounds near Castine prohibit generator use. At Four Acre Woods Campground, "All the things you need are there - firewood, water, bathrooms and showers, and even electricity at the site. Only thing is the sites are small and close together," notes Joann.
Limited site dimensions: RV campers should verify site size before booking. Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss has "land that is open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv. There are 4 total campsites, and each offers a slightly different view and sense of privacy."
Dry camping considerations: Prepare for minimal facilities at many locations. "It is dry camping, with no hookups, and generators are not allowed. The owner had a picnic table set up with flower boxes in it, and there was a nice fire ring. They will sell you wood if you need it."
