Cabin accommodations near Dennysville, Maine provide access to the rugged coastline of Washington County, where the average annual rainfall exceeds 45 inches. The area sits at the intersection of several major watersheds including the Dennys River, a 20-mile waterway known for Atlantic salmon runs. Camping options span from oceanfront properties to lakeside retreats with varying seasonal availability from May through October.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Machias Rips Campsite offers direct access to the Machias River where visitors can catch a variety of fish. According to one camper, "I've caught smallmouth bass, chubs and trout in the river so far! (Black and silver Jerk baits work great)."
River swimming: At Machias Rips Campsite, the river provides natural swimming holes during summer months. A reviewer notes, "Great spot to fish and swim!" The site includes trails leading to the water from each camp.
Horseback riding: Columbia Falls offers equestrian-friendly camping with trail rides. A visitor at Cottonwood Camping & RV Park mentioned, "This is the first campground we have stayed at that has ATV trail access, horse friendly camping, full hookups, pull through sites, tent camping, tent rentals, teepee rentals, 'tiny bird cabin', and a tree house."
ATV trail access: Several campgrounds connect directly to ATV trails, allowing for motorized exploration of the region. The trail networks provide access to remote areas not reachable by standard vehicles.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Seaview Campground in Eastport delivers on its name with sites overlooking the ocean. One camper shared, "We had site S11, one of the best for sure. Unobstructed view of the bay. You can see whales swimming by."
Clean facilities: Despite their rustic nature, many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. A visitor noted about Machias Rips, "There is also a relatively new and quite clean pit toilet available for use."
Affordable options: Budget-conscious travelers will find reasonable rates at several campgrounds. A Don K. commented about Cottonwood, "Reasonable price. 35 to 45 bucks, in Maine thats not bad."
Lake activities: Keenes Lake Family Campground provides water recreation opportunities. A camper shared, "The lake was clean and we swam, kayaked and crossed the lake on paddle boards."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. At Machias Rips, one camper reported, "Most Cell phone carriers won't have service back at the camp, I myself had to drive 20 Minutes up the road for signal."
Road conditions: Access roads to some sites require careful navigation. As a Machias Rips Campsite visitor explained, "The dirt road leading to the camp can be easily missed if not paying attention! But is clearly marked with a blue sign at the head of the road."
Insect preparation: Depending on the season, biting insects can be prevalent. "Camp sites today are very buggy—bring your repellent and/or netting," advised one Machias Rips visitor in August.
Seasonal operations: Most cabin rentals operate from May through October. Pleasant Lake Camping Area specifically runs "Memorial Day to Columbus Day," restricting availability to summer and early fall.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation: Families with children often appreciate the swimming options. At Keenes Lake, a visitor reported, "We stayed during Covid restrictions. Everyone seemed to be following the guidelines that were clearly posted by the campsite."
Unique accommodations: Pleasant Lake Camping Area offers cabin and yurt options that appeal to families wanting shelter beyond traditional tents. While reviews are limited, the campground maintains a perfect 5-star rating.
Traffic awareness: Some campgrounds experience more vehicle traffic than others. A Machias Rips reviewer cautioned, "Seems to be a bathroom pit-stop for travelers on rt 9 due to having the maintained bathroom. So lots of traffic driving in, using the toilet and then driving right back out."
Level site selection: When setting up camp, finding a flat area matters. A recent Keenes Lake visitor advised, "It is hard to get a level site but the owner let us pick what was best for us based on what was available."
Tips from RVers
Big rig accommodations: Several campgrounds can handle larger recreational vehicles. At Seaview Campground, a reviewer noted, "It's also a big rig haven. Sites are close together in a grassy area but all have views of the ocean."
Hook-up availability: Full service connections vary by location. A visitor to Cottonwood shared, "W/E/S at most sites," referring to water, electric, and sewer hookups available at individual campsites.
Development status: Some campgrounds in the region are actively expanding. About Cottonwood, a camper observed, "New park so lots of construction going on. Owner is very helpful. Will be a great park when it really gets going."
Shower facilities: For RVers without onboard bathrooms, shower quality matters. A Cottonwood visitor highlighted, "Outstanding bath facilities w/ United hot water, (free too!)."
