Cabin camping near Chamberlain, Maine provides access to the region's diverse coastal geography, from tidal river inlets to lake settings. Located in midcoast Maine at approximately 100 feet above sea level, the area experiences mild summer temperatures averaging 75°F during peak season with cooler nights in the 50s. Summer cabin campers should be prepared for frequent morning fog that typically burns off by midday.
What to do
Beach exploration: 15-minute drive from Sherwood Forest Campsite provides direct access to Pemaquid Beach. A camper noted this advantage: "The path to Pemaquid beach is right at the end of the driveway and not much further to the historic fort. The Pemaquid Point lighthouse is 15 minutes away."
Kayaking on tidal waters: Paddlers can launch directly from Sagadahoc Bay Campground during high tide. "When the tide goes out you have the entire inlet to walk around in and explore. At night the stars were absolutely amazing!" A great option for beginners as the protected bay provides calmer waters than open ocean.
Clamming adventures: Seasonal licenses available on-site at several campgrounds. A visitor explained: "Plenty of clamming and watching wild life like hermit crabs, crabs, seagulls... The clams there are the sweetest and most delicious I have ever tasted, not to mention freshest. Clamming license, tools for digging and even pots are available at the office."
Hiking nearby preserves: Within 10-15 minutes of most cabin locations. "Nearby is the Ovens Mouth Preserve which has great hiking and nice water views and is just one of many nature preserves in the area which all are very nice, well-marked, well-maintained, and dog-friendly."
What campers like
Direct water access: Lake Pemaquid Campground offers waterfront sites with private docks. A visitor shared: "Some sites even have their own pier to sit out on and fish or swim from or simply watch nature. They rent kayaks and canoes to explore the lake."
Fresh seafood delivery: Many campgrounds offer unique lobster service. "Lobsters for sale straight out of the tank cooked and delivered to your site every day. Don't forget to add corn and potatoes. Fire pits are stone and awesome." This service typically costs $15-25 per lobster with sides.
Cedar showers: Unique bathroom amenities at Meguniticook by the Sea Campground. A camper described: "We love the showers!! The cedar showers are of similar construction to a sauna and it feels like a hot shower outdoors." Most cabin facilities charge $0.25-1.00 for 5-7 minutes of hot water.
Seasonal events: Weekend activities vary throughout summer. "They had a band play on Sat night and large bonfire. Everyone was invited to attend if they wanted to. Nice family friendly campground." Many campgrounds host themed weekends like Christmas in July with decorations and special activities.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Many campgrounds maintain traditional booking methods. "We were surprised to learn that you have to mail in your request or call. When calling during the 'winter' months (anytime from September through Mid-June), staff can only be reached from 9:00-2:00."
Insect preparation essential: Coastal and lake locations have significant mosquito populations. "Even as seasoned campers, they were too much and due to bugs, we ended up leaving a day early." Bug spray with DEET, thermacell devices, and screen shelters are strongly recommended for comfort.
Site selection matters: Ask specific questions about your site location. "The RV spots are in a very open field, but they are directly on the water. When the tide goes out you have the entire inlet to walk around in and explore."
Bathroom facilities vary: Most cabin areas have centralized facilities. "Bathrooms were dated but clean. The site we had was on the water and had great views." Expect 5-10 minute walks to facilities from some cabin locations at Duck Puddle Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Plan around tide charts for coastal campgrounds. "When the tide goes out you can walk over a mile out towards the lighthouse on Sequin Island. You cannot actually reach the lighthouse, mind you. Plenty of clamming and watching wild life."
Playground access: Multiple options available for different age groups. "There is a place to put your boat in if you have it, laundry, dock, fishing, camp store and I thought a great playground and field are if u have kids with u."
Water safety considerations: Lake options provide safer swimming for younger children. "The lake is great for swimming and paddling. The water or bathrooms can be a bit of a walk depending where you're staying but overall the campground isn't that large."
Evening entertainment: Look for campgrounds with organized activities. "The weekend we stayed they happened to be celebrating 'Christmas in July' and so a lot of the campers had put up lights and decorated. They had a band play on Sat night and large bonfire."
Tips from RVers
Electrical service limitations: Meadowbrook Camping visitors note: "We paid for a 30 amp service, but had low voltage the entirety of our stay... They had several campsites on the same breaker, something we have never seen at any campground in our 3 years of travel." Consider bringing a voltage monitor if your RV has sensitive electronics.
Leveling challenges: Many cabin and RV sites require adjustment. "The site was unlevel and we were always on a bit of an incline. Our coach is pretty sensitive when it comes to leveling so this may not be a problem with other units or towables."
Campground layouts: Coastal Maine terrain creates unique site configurations. "Some of their 30-amp waterfront sites come with great views. They also have some sites tucked in the woods that are super wide with huge patios and lots of privacy between you and your neighbor."
Individual garbage service: Some properties offer convenient waste disposal. "Each site has its own garbage can which is super convenient. Hook-ups at our site worked fine and were well-placed and easy to connect to." This service is not standard at all locations.
