Tent campsites near Ellsworth, Maine range from wooded inland sites to coastal island locations, with elevations from sea level to 1,200 feet. Most primitive sites lack cell service, with strongest reception at established campgrounds closer to Ellsworth. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F with higher humidity and more frequent rain than inland locations.
What to do
Swimming access: At Donnell Pond — Donnel Pond, campers can enjoy swimming from the beach areas. "We were able to swim here as well. We went fishing and did catch a couple of fish," reports Amanda F., who accessed the site by boat.
Blueberry picking: At Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss, campers can harvest wild blueberries in season (mid-July through August). "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!" notes Korie M.
Hiking trails: Multiple hiking options exist within the Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land, with trails ranging from 3-5 miles round trip. "The hike the next morning was a good climb for only about a 3+ mile hike," explains Erik C. about the trail system accessible from the campground.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Campsites at Rough and Raw offer a clothing-optional experience in a secluded setting. "A true hidden gem. We had no idea there was a clothing optional site near Acadia and stumbled across this with hipcamp. A safe and lovely primitive site," reports Heather G.
Island camping: Saddleback Island provides isolated tent camping accessible only by boat. "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," explains Shari G.
Level sites: The ground at Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss provides flat terrain ideal for RVs and tents. "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," notes Heather C.
What you should know
Access challenges: Getting to primitive sites often requires planning. At Shivers Island, "the tide in this area is significant (9-12 vertical feet), and landing at high tide is nearly impossible on Shivers (and many other islands)," warns Shari G.
Waste disposal: Island camping requires pack-in, pack-out practices for all waste. On the Maine Island Trail, "you are required to use Wag Bags instead of digging a cat hole to dispose of human waste," notes Shari G., an important consideration for overnight stays.
Campsite spacing: At Four Acre Woods Campground, sites are placed close together. "When we arrived we were shocked to see how close together the sites are (we heard our neighbor snoring)," reports Peña B., noting the lack of privacy between camping spots.
Tips for camping with families
Transportation logistics: For families camping at Donnell Pond, plan for gear transport. "The hike in is only about 1/2 mile so it's totally doable even if you need to make two trips," advises Erik C., suggesting multiple trips may be necessary with children and family gear.
Weather preparation: Fog can roll in quickly, especially at coastal tent sites like The Hawnets Nest. Pack appropriate clothing layers and rain gear even in summer, when evening temperatures can drop significantly.
Site selection: At Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss, consider specific site characteristics. "Each offers a slightly different view and sense of privacy. The owner had a picnic table set up with flower boxes in it, and there was a nice fire ring," notes Heather C., highlighting site differences important for family comfort.
Tips from RVers
Generator policies: At Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss, generators are not permitted. "It is dry camping, with no hookups, and generators are not allowed," explains Heather C., noting the quiet atmosphere this creates.
Site access: Some campgrounds have limited RV access due to narrow roads or small sites. "Only thing is the sites are small and close together. I was there when it was still cold and was the only person so it didn't bother me," reports Joann&WellsThePup I. about Four Acre Woods Campground.
Local services: RVers should note dump station availability when planning trips. While Donnell Pond lacks facilities, other campgrounds like Four Acre Woods offer sanitary dump services for RVs traveling in the region.
