Best Tent Camping near Ellsworth, ME
Public lands surrounding Ellsworth, Maine offer diverse tent camping options ranging from established campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites. Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land, located approximately 15 miles northeast of Ellsworth, provides tent-only camping with walk-in sites accessible via a half-mile trail from the parking area. Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss offers private tent campsites set among rolling blueberry fields, while Rough and Raw provides a clothing-optional primitive tent camping experience closer to Acadia National Park. The Maine Island Trail features numerous islands for backcountry tent camping in the Deer Isle Archipelago south of Ellsworth.
Most tent campgrounds in the region operate on a first-come, first-served basis with minimal amenities. Donnell Pond campsites include fire rings and picnic tables but lack drinking water and showers, requiring campers to pack in all supplies. Sites are typically set on natural surfaces with minimal grading. The Maine Island Trail's tent sites require boat access and have strict carry-in, carry-out policies. Campers must use Wag Bags instead of digging catholes for human waste disposal. Cell reception is limited throughout the area, particularly at remote tent-only sites. Summer brings mosquitoes and occasional fog, especially at coastal tent camping locations.
During early fall, many tent campsites offer increased privacy and cooler temperatures. According to reviews, Donnell Pond provides secluded tent camping with mountain views and swimming access. One camper noted, "The hike in is only about half a mile so it's totally doable even if you need to make two trips." For island tent camping, visitors should prepare for significant tidal changes that affect landing. A reviewer of the Maine Island Trail explained, "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." Walk-in tent sites at these locations provide greater seclusion than drive-in options, with tent campers frequently using these areas as bases for day hikes and water activities.