Best Dispersed Camping near Dixmont, ME
Dispersed camping near Dixmont, Maine primarily centers on boat-in island sites managed by the Maine Island Trail Association (MITA). Buckle Island and Wheat Island offer free primitive camping opportunities in the Deer Isle Archipelago. These sites require no permits but are accessible only by watercraft. Both islands maintain a first-come, first-served policy for campsites and are completely free for MITA members.
Buckle Island features two distinct campsites: a larger wooded area and a smaller site near the granite shore. The island's sandy beach, exposed during lower tides, provides relatively easy landing for sea kayakers. According to reviews, "This is a perfect island for those new to sea kayak camping as the sandy shore is easy to land on and a short walk to a trail into the woods." The island offers sunset views from the shoreline campsite.
Wheat Island also contains two designated camping areas: a small site on the northeast side and a larger group-appropriate site on the southwest side. Tide timing is critical when approaching this island. Several campers note that "this can be a tricky island to land on at high tide, so plan accordingly." The southwest site provides views of both sunset and moonrise over the Gulf of Maine. The location serves as a good base for exploring nearby Isle au Haut, a remote section of Acadia National Park.
No fresh water sources exist on either island. Visitors must pack in all drinking water and bring waste disposal bags as no toilet facilities are available. Mosquitoes can be prevalent, particularly around sunset, even into early September. Both islands permit fires and allow pets, though standard Leave No Trace principles apply to all activities.
