Tent camping near Deer Isle, Maine requires careful planning due to tidal fluctuations ranging from 9-14 feet that affect water access points. The granite islands scattered throughout this archipelago feature unique camping locations connected by the 375-mile Maine Island Trail water route. Summer temperatures average 70°F during peak camping months with frequent coastal fog forming without warning.
What to do
Hiking on Isle au Haut: Camp at Duck Harbor Campground and explore the remote section of Acadia National Park. "There are several miles of moderate hikes. 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," notes Patricia P.
Wild blueberry picking: Visit Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss during harvest season. "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!" shares Korie M. The farm offers level sites with sweeping views of working blueberry fields.
Paddling to secluded spots: Explore the numerous islands accessible only by kayak. "This island is perfect for 1-2 small tents and is just a stone's throw away from the famous and beautiful Isle au Haut (part of Acadia National Park). We stayed 2 nights on Nathan and paddled to Duck Harbor for some day hiking on Isle au Haut," reports a camper about their experience on the smaller islands.
What campers like
Private island camping: Each island offers different landscapes and challenges. "The camping spot is simple and similar to most backcountry sites: a flat space to pitch your small tent, no toilet, no drinking water, no picnic table, and no reservations possible. But, what this island lacks in 'amenities' is made up for in beauty all around!" writes a reviewer about Nathan Island.
Farm-based camping: Continuous Harmony Farm offers unique agricultural camping. "Park your van, or pop your tent, next to the pond. Chill out and watch the sheep, or pick your own blueberries alongside their raking crew in their organic wild blueberry barrens," shares a camper. Another notes, "The space is gorgeous, right next to a pond."
Stargazing opportunities: Many sites offer excellent night sky viewing without light pollution. "With a deep, rocky shore, it's the perfect place to make dinner and watch the sunrise or set, all with beautiful views of Mount Desert Island, the home of Acadia National Park," writes a visitor to Saddleback Island.
What you should know
Navigation skills required: Boating to island campsites demands preparation. A reviewer warns, "The fog can roll in at any minute so come prepared with a chart, compass, bearings between islands/markers and a marine radio." Island campers should file float plans before departing.
Limited amenities: Most island sites are primitive. "You are required to use Wag Bags instead of digging a cat hole to dispose of human waste," notes a camper. Pack out everything you bring in as there are no trash facilities.
Reservation challenges: Some campgrounds are extremely competitive. About Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land, a camper advises, "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 otherwise all sites are free."
Early morning noise: Local fishing industry starts before dawn. "You may get awakened by the sound of lobster boats motors, as they start their day pretty darn early; bring ear plugs if you are light sleeper," recommends an experienced island camper.
Tips for camping with families
Start with mainland sites: For first-time visitors with children, mainland options provide easier access. "This location offers level sites, views of rolling blueberry fields, a picnic table, and other goodies from your host," notes a visitor about Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss.
Plan for weather changes: Pack extra clothing and rain gear. A camper shares, "The weather conditions can change rapidly in this area, especially when camping near water." Children should have waterproof layers accessible.
Consider facilities first: Some sites offer more amenities for family comfort. Four Acre Woods Campground provides "firewood, water, bathrooms and showers, and even electricity at the site," according to a reviewer, though they note "the sites are small and close together."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer chances to see marine life. "We went fishing and did catch a couple of fish! These are public/free and first come first serve sites," shares Amanda F. about her family camping experience.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most island camping spots are inaccessible to RVs. For RV camping, stay on the mainland. "When we arrived we were shocked to see how close together the sites are (we heard our neighbor snoring)," cautions an RV camper at Four Acre Woods Campground.
Site selection considerations: At Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss, one RVer notes, "We stayed in campsite 2, where the land is open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv. There are 4 total campsites, and each offers a slightly different view and sense of privacy."
Power limitations: Many tent camping areas near Deer Isle restrict generator use. "It is dry camping, with no hookups, and generators are not allowed," explains a camper, emphasizing the need for self-contained power solutions.
