Pet-friendly camping options around Deer Isle center on the granite-lined shores of Eggemoggin Reach and Penobscot Bay, where summer temperatures average 75°F with cool evening breezes. The region features a mix of wooded inland sites and waterfront camping areas, many within a 30-minute drive of local fishing villages where fresh lobster is available daily.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: At Seawall Campground, campers can witness exceptional night skies. "For stargazers, the short walk across the street to the beach will give you some unbelievable views of the milky way when the night is at peak darkness," notes Kyle R. This area has minimal light pollution compared to Bar Harbor.
Tide pool exploration: The rocky shores near Bass Harbor provide excellent tide pool viewing during low tide. "With coastal hikes so close, sunrise hikes and exploring the tide pools were outstanding!" says Steve M. The tide pools contain sea stars, hermit crabs, and small fish trapped during receding tides.
Kayaking from camp: Oceanfront sites allow direct water access for paddling. "We could launch our kayaks directly from the site. The kayaking from the park is very good, with protected access into Mt. Desert Narrows," explains Heather C. from Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA.
Mountain hiking: Camden Hills State Park offers trail access from campsite to summit. "Mount Battie is a must and the views are spectacular. If you would like to burn a few calories try hiking the trail to the top for a truly rewarding experience," shares Nancy W. The park has over 30 miles of hiking trails.
What campers like
Private tent sites: Smuggler's Den Campground offers secluded sites away from RV sections. "The tent sites are very private. We felt safe and secure. It's quiet and the staff was very friendly," says Melissa N. Many tent sites back up to forest sections with natural buffers between neighbors.
Outdoor showers: Campgrounds near Deer Isle feature unique shower facilities. "Great layout and design with water access and nice view. Oh, and a great outdoor shower," reports Chuck W. about Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls. These outdoor facilities provide campers with refreshing options after salty ocean swims.
Clean bathrooms: Facilities are well maintained throughout the region. "Bathrooms were clean. There is a designated dishwashing drain to keep animals away from the campsites. Best part though was the lack of biting flies and mosquitoes!" writes Dana S. about Blackwoods Campground. Many campgrounds feature dishwashing stations separate from bathroom facilities.
Lobster delivery: Some campgrounds offer fresh seafood service. "Highly highly recommend getting fresh lobster from the local lobster man that lives on the grounds, they even supply you with a pot to boil them!" mentions Andrew B. This unique service saves campers from finding seafood markets while providing authentic Maine dining experiences.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "We arrived just a few days after the park opened for the season so the campground was especially quiet. Our large back-in site was set in an open sunny area but most of the sites are nicely tucked into the woods with plenty of space between them," explains Nancy W. about Camden Hills State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking during summer months. "Reservations can be made on-line but only about half of the sites are reservable leaving the other half for walk-ups. I would advise making reservations if you want to stay over a weekend or during the summer season as this park really fills up," advises a reviewer.
Limited cell coverage: Service varies significantly by location. "We didn't have reliable cell service," notes one camper. Signal strength tends to be better near larger towns but weaker in sheltered valleys and more remote campgrounds.
Limited shower options: Not all campgrounds provide on-site showers. "Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water," reports Karla J.B. about Seawall Campground. Campers should bring quarters for pay showers and plan shower trips accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: Hadley's Point Campground offers swimming options for kids. "The campground had a heated swimming pool and children's pool. Best of all, the campground was on the Island Explorer bus route," shares Brandy N. The pool provides a warmer alternative to the chilly ocean waters.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas. "There is a wonderful pool, a playground, and lots of outdoor toys including basketballs available to campers," mentions Jennifer P. about Smuggler's Den Campground. These facilities give children recreation options between outdoor adventures.
Beach proximity: Walking access to swimming areas appeals to families. "A quarter-mile walk from Hadley's Point leads to a great beach in Acadia National Park," says a visitor. The beach offers shallow entry points suitable for younger children during warm summer days.
Dog exercise areas: Dog-friendly campgrounds include designated pet spaces. "The camp store is large and well stocked. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The camp was very dog friendly," notes Molly G. Many campgrounds provide waste stations and walking paths specifically designed for pets.
Tips from RVers
Site selection importance: Somes Sound View Campground offers varying quality sites. "I would avoid campsite 14, because the parking spot is about six feet above the camping area, and the camping area is not especially level," advises Thomas R. RVers should research specific site dimensions and grades before booking.
Water pressure considerations: Water connections vary by campground. "Water pressure was low, but the WiFi was awesome," notes TJ S. RVers should carry pressure regulators and supplemental water tanks for campgrounds with inconsistent supply.
Dump station access: Waste disposal facilities are limited on the island. "There is a dump station and water spigots are scattered throughout the campground," mentions one reviewer. Some campgrounds offer full hookups while others provide central dump stations with specific hours.
Site privacy variations: Space between sites differs considerably. "The sites are all right next to each other and very open so if there is someone next to you there's 0 privacy," warns Ali B. about Bass Harbor Campground. RVers seeking privacy should book end sites or locations with natural vegetation barriers.
