Tent camping near Corea, Maine offers primitive wilderness experiences with elevated ocean views across the Schoodic Peninsula. Campsites range from walk-in sites at Donnell Pond to remote island locations accessible only by boat from Stonington. Summer temperatures average 65-75°F with frequent coastal fog events that can reduce visibility to less than 100 feet within minutes.
What to do
Hiking at Donnell Pond: Half-mile walk to access tent camping area with mountain views. Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land features multiple trails for day hikes. "The hiking is moderate with multiple trails and great views. The campsites are a little cramped unless you have a boat or are a ultralight back packer and want to either cross the lake by boat or hike a few miles to a camp site with a little more privacy," notes Casey.
Kayaking at Nathan Island: Paddle from Stonington to reach secluded tent sites. "We stayed 2 nights on Nathan and paddled to Duck Harbor for some day hiking on Isle au Haut," reports one camper who enjoyed island-hopping adventures from this base camp.
Swimming in blueberry fields: Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss offers swimming spots with unique surroundings. "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!" writes Korie M.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Donnell Pond camping areas provide quiet locations without crowds. "This was really a beautiful spot to set up camp. I stayed here for only 1 night as I had reservations in Acadia (about 45 minutes outside Acadia) but I will absolutely come back in the future," shares Erik C.
Lakefront camping: Tom's Retreat on Gardner Lake offers private waterfront access. "Amazing lakefront lot, very private and comes with a big common area to BBQ and clean Port-a-Potty on the top of the 1 acre sloped lot," reports Claudia G.
Stargazing opportunities: Island camping sites provide unobstructed night sky viewing without light pollution. Nathan Island campers specifically mention star gazing "with no city lights or trees to obstruct your view."
What you should know
Reservations requirements: Duck Harbor Campground in Acadia National Park requires advance booking. "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.
Waste disposal rules: Human waste management differs by location. For island camping, portable waste bags must be packed out rather than buried.
Limited facilities: Most tent sites near Corea have minimal amenities. "There was a shared porta potty available for use for all of the campsites," notes one camper at Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss.
Weather considerations: Evening temperatures can drop quickly even in summer. Coastal fog impacts visibility and navigation, particularly for boaters.
Tips for camping with families
Choose walk-in sites for beginners: Donnell Pond offers accessible tent sites for families not ready for boat-in camping. "The hike in is only about 1/2 mile so it's totally doable even if you need to make two trips," notes a camper.
Bring entertainment options: Limited cell service means offline activities are necessary. Board games and field guides help engage children.
Plan for temperature swings: Rough and Raw campers note significant day-to-night temperature changes. "A safe and lovely primitive site," mentions one visitor who recommends extra layers for evenings.
Pack extra water: Most tent sites near Corea require carrying in all drinking water, with no potable water sources available on site.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most sites near Corea aren't suitable for larger vehicles. Tent camping dominates the region's options with few RV-friendly locations.
Consider tent platform alternatives: Four Acre Woods Campground offers canvas tents but requires bringing all sleeping gear. "Since we had been camping for a few weeks already and had our sleeping bags, mats, and lights," notes one camper who came prepared.
Bring leveling blocks: Sites at Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss may require adjustment. "This location offers level sites, views of rolling blueberry fields, a picnic table, and other goodies from your host," notes Ashley F.
