Camping options around Chamberlain, Maine spread across the central Maine coastline, with most facilities situated within a 30-minute drive. The area experiences crisp summer nights with average temperatures dropping to the mid-50s even in July and August. Maine's coastal camping season typically runs from mid-May through mid-October, with limited options available during shoulder seasons when temperatures can drop below freezing overnight.
What to do
Hiking at Camden Hills State Park: The park features multiple trail options from easy walks to challenging climbs with elevation gains of 500-800 feet. "We loved the view from the top of Mt. Battie. Definitely check out the trails along the ocean," notes one visitor to Camden Hills State Park Campground.
Kayaking on tidal waterways: Many coastal campgrounds offer direct water access with rentals available. "Kayaks and canoes are available for rent, too," says a reviewer about Sagadahoc Bay Campground. When paddling tidal areas, plan trips around tide schedules, as some locations become mudflats during low tide.
Farm-based activities: Several campgrounds integrate agricultural experiences. At Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Campground, "Our son loved the working farm" according to one camper, while another mentions "the farm is now open to the public, free of charge every day and is committed to continuing and improving upon the long tradition of sustainable agriculture."
Fresh seafood experiences: Order lobster meals delivered directly to your campsite. A camper at Meadowbrook Camping mentions, "Lobsters for sale straight out of the tank cooked and delivered to your site every day. Don't forget to add corn and potatoes." Most campgrounds charge market rates for lobster, typically $8-15 per pound depending on the season.
What campers like
Tide exploration: The dramatic 9-11 foot tides create unique landscapes for discovering marine life. A Shore Hills visitor notes, "The river is tidal and so unless you want to wade threw mud there is not access beyond a couple hours around high tide." At Hermit Island, "When the tide goes out you can walk for forever. Lots of people come here to clam."
Quiet camping options: For those seeking tranquility away from crowds. "This is a nice place to visit. We had full hook ups. The sites are close together. We were camping with friends so this was bonus us," reports a visitor to Sherwood Forest Campsite.
Waterfront camping access: Many campsites offer direct water views. "Our site was a tent only and on the bay side. HG2. Note- I could not drive into my campsite but had to park parallel at the entrance," explains a camper at Hermit Island Campground, while others appreciate "camping right on the ocean."
Swimming options: Both freshwater lake and saltwater ocean swimming available in the region. "Great beach for swimming, playground for playing," reports a visitor about Duck Puddle Campground, which offers a lake with swimming float.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Maine coastal camping requires serious insect protection. A Hermit Island camper warns, "Even as seasoned campers, they were too much and due to bugs, we ended up leaving a day early," while another advises, "My all natural bug spray which is usually strong enough for NY bugs is not effective there."
Reservation processes vary: Some campgrounds maintain old-school booking systems. "This campground does not have an online reservation system. You have to mail in your request or call," mentions one reviewer about Hermit Island, while others require phone reservations or significant advance planning.
Campsite privacy differences: Site layouts and spacing vary considerably between and within campgrounds. At Chewonki Campground, "Campsites are large and if you don't have a camper are outstanding. Camper sites in the field have the best views!" Meanwhile at Hermit Island, "The camp sites are well maintained, and most guests are quite mannerly."
Seasonal pricing fluctuations: Rates increase substantially during peak summer weeks. Most campgrounds charge 30-40% more during July and August compared to May, June, September, and October. Waterfront or premium sites typically command an additional $10-20 per night over standard sites.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access considerations: Some beaches require timing visits around tides. "The beach sites look amazing but I've never been lucky enough to nab one," shares a Hermit Island visitor, while another mentions the campground is "dotted with fabulous beaches, open only to campers on the island."
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas and 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," reports a visitor to Duck Puddle Campground.
Cell service limitations: Many coastal areas have limited connectivity. A Hermit Island camper warns, "Absolutely NO CELL SERVICE. Sounds like a good thing, right? Nope. Not for us because in case of emergency, couldn't call anyone for help. Had to drive about a mile out to get reception."
Glamping options for families new to camping: For those seeking a glamping in Chamberlain experience, several campgrounds now offer alternative accommodations. Lake Pemaquid Campground offers "yurts and canvas tents" while Meadowbrook Camping provides cabin options as stepping stones to traditional camping.
Tips from RVers
Electrical considerations: Verify amperage and hookup details before booking. A reviewer at Meadowbrook Camping warns, "We paid for a 30 amp service, but had low voltage the entirety of our stay... On our last day, we didn't even have enough voltage to keep fans running inside our RV."
Site leveling challenges: Many Maine coastal campgrounds have uneven terrain. "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," shares an RVer who visited Meadowbrook Camping.
Water access: RV sites with water views often lack shade. "We got a space on the water (82) and the view is so beautiful," notes a Shore Hills camper, while another mentions "Some of their 30-amp waterfront sites come with great views. They also have some sites tucked in the woods."
Full hookup availability: Limited full-service sites at most campgrounds. At Camden Hills State Park, "Approximately half the sites have water and 30/50 amp electric and the others are no hookups," notes one reviewer, suggesting booking well in advance for full hookup sites during peak season.
