Eastport, Maine sits at the easternmost point of the United States, located on Moose Island with an elevation of 33 feet. The region experiences average summer temperatures between 60-75°F, while winter temperatures typically drop to 10-20°F with heavy snowfall. Camping in the area offers waterfront access to Passamaquoddy Bay, with sites ranging from established campgrounds to primitive ocean-view options.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: The waters around Sunset Point RV Park offer excellent kayaking conditions, particularly at high tide. "We used the primitive kayak/canoe launch (which is basically a mowed path down to the water) almost daily. Beware that the tidal range is around 20 feet so make sure you paddle around high tide or you will have to cross a mucky, seaweed covered, rocky clam flat to get back to shore," advises Nancy W.
Wildlife viewing: Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts can spot various wildlife from their campsites. "After a busy morning of hiking or paddling we loved hanging out at our campsite in the afternoon and watching the seals, bald eagles, seabirds, and the tides come and go," shares a camper at Sunset Point RV Park.
Fishing opportunities: The coastal waters provide good fishing. At Machias Rips Campsite, one camper reports: "Great spot to fish and swim! I've caught smallmouth bass, chubs and trout in the river so far! (Black and silver Jerk baits work great)."
Border exploration: When the border is open, bring your passport to explore nearby Canadian attractions. "Lubec is a cute little town with a few shops, restaurants, historical museum, a brewery, grocery, and a scenic view of the Passamaquoddy Bay. Bring your passport and cross over to Campobello Island which was the summer home of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt and is now a museum open for tours," notes a visitor.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Campers consistently praise the ocean vistas at Seaview Campground in Eastport. "It's all about the view! It's also a big rig haven. Sites are close together in a grassy area but all have views of the ocean. There is a wide grassy area across from the sites and right on the waters edge," shares Kevin W.
Wildlife sightings: The coastal location provides opportunities to see marine wildlife. "Our site had an unobstructed view of the bay, right under a nice size pine tree. You can see whales swimming by," notes Mark S. about his stay at Seaview Campground.
Lobster experiences: Several campgrounds offer unique lobster cooking opportunities. "The campground has free use of lobster pots, burners, and propane tanks if you want to cook your own lobster and there's a seafood place right down the street that sells live lobster. Or you can drive about 25 miles to the town of Cutler and buy them fresh off the dock," reports a camper.
Peace and quiet: Many campers enjoy the tranquil atmosphere at Sunset Point Campground in Harrington. "Quiet, clean, right by the ocean," says Philip, while another camper notes, "Really pretty campground, well maintained lawns with E/W hookups and a roof structure over the picnic table to protect from rain."
What you should know
Free camping options: For budget-conscious travelers seeking RV camping near Eastport, Maine, South Bay on Rocky Lake offers free campsites. "Wasn't sure what to expect, but went anyway. After turning off the highway you take a dirt road for about a mile until you see a sign for the campsites. (My sedan easily made it down the road)," shares Mark M.
Tidal awareness: The extreme tides affect water activities. A 20-foot tidal range means water levels change dramatically throughout the day, impacting boat launches and shoreline access.
Cell service variations: Connectivity varies by location and carrier. "Camp sites today are very buggy- bring your repellent and/or netting," notes Gary at Machias Rips Campsite, who also mentioned having "4 bars of LTE service (AT&T) which was nice."
Limited amenities: Many campgrounds in the area have basic facilities. "There's a site immediately when you turn in, but about 2 minutes further you'll find a parking lot with what looked to me like 4 more campsites and a boat ramp... The lot also had a porta-potty in it," explains a camper at South Bay on Rocky Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Covered picnic tables: Sites with sheltered eating areas provide comfort in variable weather. "Nice bathrooms, cheap firewood, and picnic table + shelter at every tent site. Only heads up is that the sites aren't very private," notes Anna L. about Sunset Point Campground.
Unique accommodations: Cottonwood Camping & RV Park offers novelty sleeping options kids will love. "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," shares J B.
Special experiences: Themed camping can create memorable family trips. "I surprised my husband with the Teepee- we were not disappointed! A huge Teepee with a very comfortable queen size bed- a couch, table, area animal rugs, coffee maker and a fan if needed," describes Cheryl R. at Cottonwood Camping & RV Park.
Water access: Look for campsites with safe water entry points. "There are about 5 spots. Some are rough and not super flat, but it's pretty and the river is right there," notes a camper at Machias Rips Campsite.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Be prepared for varied site conditions when RV camping near Eastport. "Our site was on grass and level enough that we could make it work without much difficulty," explains a camper at Sunset Point RV Park.
Wind protection: Coastal breezes can be strong. "Warning: do not leave your awning out while you are away from your camper as the winds can really pick up in the afternoon and damage them," cautions Nancy W.
Hookup positioning: Some RVers adjust their parking orientation for better views. "Most motorhomes (in sites 16-29) choose to pull-in forward so they have a water view out of their front window and run the utilities under their RV to hook-up," explains a camper.
Site selection: For more privacy, choose carefully. "Sites 12A and 12B are the best IMO as they have an unobstructed view of the bay and more space between them than other sites," recommends Lee D. from Sunset Point RV Park.
