Campers exploring pet-friendly campgrounds near Dedham, Maine can find diverse options within 30 minutes of town. Located in Hancock County, Dedham sits at approximately 400 feet elevation with heavily forested terrain featuring numerous lakes and ponds. Winter camping is limited with most campgrounds operating mid-May through mid-October due to frequent snowfall accumulation beginning in November.
What to do
Kayaking at Branch Lake: Launch directly from waterfront sites at Branch Lake Camping Area, where the 26-mile perimeter lake offers protected paddling. "We had loons come in close to our site. Saw an Eagle too. We sat our chairs in the water and cooled down everyday and floated on our noodles," reports B M., who appreciated the campground's boat docks and swimming platforms.
Hiking trails near campgrounds: Access snowmobile trails behind Pumpkin Patch RV Resort that connect to woodland walking paths. "Snowmobile trails behind the campground lead to a walking path that connects the high school and elementary school for a pleasant walk in the woods," notes Rebecca Y., who visited in October.
Swimming options beyond lakes: Many campgrounds maintain pools as alternatives to lake swimming. At Bar Harbor Campground, "There is a really nice large swimming pool perched right along the water, nice little nature trails/dog walking areas, laundry, game room, shuffleboard, playground, water access, arcade, and more," according to Nancy W.
Blueberry picking in season: Take advantage of wild blueberries during peak season. "Mid July to Mid August free blueberries campside," notes Tammy H. about Bar Harbor Campground, making this a popular seasonal activity for campers staying through summer.
What campers like
Private tent areas: For tent campers seeking seclusion, some campgrounds offer designated areas away from RVs. At Blackwoods Campground, "There are a lot of trees around so even though the campsites are close together they feel very private," says Jenna L., who appreciated the campground's wooded setting.
Dog exercise areas: Purpose-built spaces for pets to run safely exist at several campgrounds. "There is a new dog exercise area which has water and toys and is long enough for our Labrador retriever to chase a ball," shares Nancy W. about Pumpkin Patch RV Resort, highlighting pet amenities beyond standard leash policies.
Island Explorer shuttle access: Several campgrounds connect to the free Island Explorer bus system. "The shuttle stops at the campground so you can hitch a ride downtown or to the park and not have to worry about parking. The shuttle has a bike rack so you can bring your bike and pets are allowed," explains Nancy W. about Bar Harbor Campground.
Waterfront camping options: Sites with direct water access prove popular with dog owners. "Our waterfront site 344 was terrific - gorgeous view, and one of the larger waterfront spots. We could launch our kayaks directly from the site," says Heather C. about Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA.
What you should know
First-come-first-served system: Some campgrounds don't take reservations, requiring early arrival. "This is a first come first serve campground. Show up find an empty spot. Pay for it and it's yours," explains Celeste M. about Bar Harbor Campground, noting the unusual system for securing sites.
Limited wifi connectivity: Cell service varies throughout the Dedham area. "Our Verizon phone got good reception and our hot spot worked well. The campground wi-fi was decent at our site but that depends on where you are in the park and what time of day you are using it," shares Nancy W. about Pumpkin Patch RV Resort.
Water quality considerations: Some campgrounds have less-than-ideal drinking water. When staying at campgrounds near Branch Lake, campers often bring drinking water supplies. "The town of Ellsworth has everything you need. Walmart, home depot, the Global beverage store," notes B M. from Branch Lake Camping Area.
Check-in/out flexibility varies: While most campgrounds maintain standard check-in times, some allow mid-stay transitions between sites. "After 4 days and my tanks were full. I found a full hook with sewer $46 and moved for the next week," explains Celeste M. about moving sites at Bar Harbor Campground during a longer stay.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Balsam Cove Campground provides family-friendly recreation facilities. "There is a playground and a common eating area. the kids feel like they are at summer camp while here," notes Melissa N., who found the campground's atmosphere appealing for children despite some site privacy limitations.
Organized activities: Seasonal programming enhances family stays at certain campgrounds. "Lots of organized activities and great Bingo on Saturday night. We did the pancake breakfast for donation, crafts, and wagon ride during the day as well as enjoyed the well kept pool," reports Abby G. about Bangor Holden KOA.
Cabin options for first-timers: Families new to camping might start with cabins. "We stayed in one of their cabins out of season and really enjoyed it. Not far from the best Acadia hiking (like 20 minutes)," says ReJeana G., who found Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA's cabins comfortable and conveniently located.
Wildlife watching opportunities: Bring binoculars for nature observation around campsites. "We had loons come in close to our site. Saw an Eagle too," shares B M. from Branch Lake Camping Area, highlighting the natural encounters possible even from campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Check campground maps carefully before booking. "Most sites are level and there are long pull thrus so you don't have to unhitch if you are only staying one night," explains Nancy W. about Pumpkin Patch RV Resort, noting the easy access for larger vehicles.
Local service providers: Access to RV repair technicians can be critical during longer stays. "We found a great mobile Repairman that fixed our slide out while we were there... his number is (207) 322-4526," shares B M. from Branch Lake Camping Area, providing a specific resource for emergency repairs.
Seasonal site options: Long-term campers have specific options. "Seasonal campers whose campsites were well-kept and they were quiet," notes Nancy W. about the atmosphere at Pumpkin Patch RV Resort, where many RVers stay for extended periods.
Dump station availability: Not all dog friendly campgrounds near Dedham offer full hookups. "I first had a tent space facing the ocean $36. Very close to the Pool for one night. Next morning I found an electric and water spot $40 close by and moved. After 4 days and my tanks were full. I found a full hook with sewer $46 and moved for the next week," explains Celeste M. about navigating site options at Bar Harbor Campground.
