Tent camping options near Frankfort, Maine range from basic primitive sites to island destinations requiring boat access. The region sits along Maine's rugged mid-coast where the Penobscot River meets the Atlantic, creating diverse camping environments from inland forests to coastal settings. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-75°F, with cooler evenings even during July and August. Campers should be prepared for significant tidal changes affecting coastal sites, with tides varying by 9-14 feet throughout the day.
What to do
Hike nearby trails: At Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land, located 45 minutes from Acadia National Park, visitors can access multiple trail systems. A camper noted that "the hiking is moderate with multiple trails and great views," making it suitable for day trips from your campsite.
Kayaking opportunities: The Penobscot Bay region offers numerous launch points for exploring by water. Near the town of Brooksville, campers at Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss can find "the closest of which are the Brooksville Town Landing, or Bucks Harbor public boat launch" according to a recent visitor.
Blueberry picking: Seasonal blueberry harvests are a unique local activity. At Continuous Harmony Farm, you can "pick your own blueberries alongside their raking crew in their organic wild blueberry barrens" as one reviewer mentioned, noting this experience is only available during "blueberry season in late July and early August."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer significant space between camping areas. At Continuous Harmony Farm, "the space is gorgeous, right next to a pond," although one camper pointed out that "there are several campsites...not marked at all and there did not seem to be a way to check in."
Natural surroundings: The region's diverse landscapes create memorable camping environments. On Saddleback Island, a boat-in camping destination, "what this island lacks in 'amenities' is made up for in beauty all around! With a deep, rocky shore, it's the perfect place to make dinner and watch the sunrise or set."
Quiet evenings: The rural setting ensures peaceful nights at most locations. Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss offers what one visitor described as "a special sense of being in nature," noting "the area was very quiet - at night we only heard the crickets and the wind."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Many sites operate with minimal amenities. At The Hawnets Nest, accommodations include "a cool A-Frame or bring-your-own Tent" with basic features like drinking water, showers, toilets and trash service, but no electric hookups.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have poor signage or unclear boundaries. A camper at Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss reported "it was a little difficult to find our site as there was nothing labeled, and I tried contacting the host but never received a response."
Advance planning needed: For island camping destinations, specific preparation is essential. When visiting islands like Saddleback, campers should know "the fog can roll in at any minute so come prepared with a chart, compass, bearings between islands/markers and a marine radio."
Tips for camping with families
Check site sizes carefully: Space limitations can affect family comfort. At Four Acre Woods Campground, campers report that "the sites are small and close together," which might not accommodate larger family setups comfortably.
Consider waterfront options: Beach access provides built-in entertainment for children. At Donnell Pond, "there are two beaches that you can camp on that have sites with fire rings and picnic tables...We were able to swim here as well," making it ideal for family activities.
Pack all essentials: Many sites have limited supplies available. When visiting Rough and Raw, campers noted it's "a safe and lovely primitive site" but families should bring everything they'll need as amenities are minimal.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most tent camping areas near Frankfort offer few RV services. Continuous Harmony Farm does provide some basic RV support with "electric-hookups" and "thirty-amp-hookups" according to their amenities list, though they primarily focus on tent sites.
Access considerations: Road conditions can restrict larger vehicles. At Shivers Island, while technically listed for RVs, practical access is limited as "there are no docks, so the islands are not accessible to large boats," making it suitable only for the smallest RVs with boat transportation.
Site leveling preparation: The region's terrain requires planning for level parking. Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss has sites where "the land is open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv," but this isn't common throughout the area.
