Cabin accommodations near Damariscotta range from rustic to premium with varying amenities and seasonal availability. Most cabins are found at established campgrounds within 15-20 minutes of town, offering access to both freshwater lakes and coastal activities. Water and electric service varies considerably between properties.
What to do
Kayaking on the lake: Rent equipment at Lake Pemaquid Campground where sites include direct water access. "The sites are right on the lake with gorgeous views. 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," explains a visitor to Lake Pemaquid Campground.
Explore tidal flats: At low tide, Sagadahoc Bay Campground offers a unique coastal experience. "The most unique feature of this campground happens at low tide when you can walk over a mile out towards the lighthouse on Sequin Island. Plenty of clamming and watching wild life like hermit crabs, crabs, seagulls," notes a reviewer who visited Sagadahoc Bay Campground.
Visit working farms: Some cabin stays include agricultural experiences. "We actually got married here. We stayed in the cabins and a few of our guests camped. The store is well stocked, and there are a ton of amenities. It's also close to other fun coastal towns," shares a guest from Duck Puddle Campground.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront accommodations: Most lakeside cabins provide adequate spacing for privacy. "The waterfront sites (61-66) offer direct access to the lake and have trees between the site for a more private feel. Some have a private dock for fishing or sitting, others have a small beach area. The lake is great for swimming and paddling," notes a visitor to Duck Puddle Campground.
Cedar showers: Several campgrounds feature upgraded bathing facilities. "The bathrooms are clean and the cedar showers are awesome! We've been excited to come back here since we left," reports a camper from Megunticook by the Sea Campground.
Freshly prepared seafood: Local delicacies are often available on-site. "Great place! Lobsters for sale straight out of the tank cooked and delivered to your site every day. Don't forget to add corn and potatoes," mentions a reviewer from Meadowbrook Camping.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Most cabins operate between May and October with limited shoulder season availability. "We love coming to Duck Puddle in the shoulder season (spring and fall) when it's quiet," notes one reviewer, while another visitor to Sherwood Forest Campsite reports, "Not many campers here in October. Plenty of room, great showers, even though they cost a whole quarter!"
Reservation processes vary: Some properties maintain traditional booking systems. According to visitors, some campgrounds are "Old school in that you have to call to make reservations and they do not accept credit cards."
Bathroom facilities differ greatly: From basic to premium, amenities vary significantly. "The bathhouse was very clean (coin-operated showers), and the sites were spacious," reports one camper, while others note centralized facilities at varying distances from cabin sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several properties feature designated play areas for children. "The campground has a short trail across to an island which our dog loved to run around on and jump in the water," writes a visitor to Shore Hills Campground, while another notes, "There are several playgrounds for the kids and even a small arcade for rainy days."
Holiday celebrations: Special events occur regularly during summer weekends. "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. Everyone was invited to attend if they wanted to."
Water safety considerations: Tidal areas require special attention with children. "The river is tidal and so unless you want to wade threw mud there is not access beyond a couple hours around high tide," advises a camper from Shore Hills Campground.
Tips from RVers
Electrical capacity: Older properties may have limited amperage. "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."
Site selection strategies: Level sites may be limited at some properties. "Our 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."
Seasonal rentals impact atmosphere: Many cabin areas include long-term residents. "There are a fair amount of seasonals that have lots of junk around their campers and some sites are pretty unsightly."
