Dispersed camping near Harborside, Maine runs from late spring through early fall, with freezing temperatures common by October. Located on the eastern side of Penobscot Bay on the Blue Hill Peninsula, this region features a mix of protected coves and exposed rocky shorelines. Many campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from mid-May through mid-October, with limited off-season availability at primitive sites.
What to do
Kayaking from waterfront sites: At Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, campers can launch directly from the beach area. A visitor noted, "We went swimming at their beach and saw a seal!" The campground provides access to Eggemoggin Reach with views of Deer Isle.
Explore tidepools at low tide: When staying at Seawall Campground, take advantage of the nearby shoreline. A camper shared, "With coastal hikes so close, sunrise hikes and exploring the tide pools were outstanding!" The rocky shoreline reveals marine life during low tide.
Crab gigging from docks: Mount Desert Campground offers floating docks perfect for wildlife observation. According to one family, "We purchased a crab bucket with net from the coffee shop one morning for around $10-12. It was well worth it as my kids crab gigged for HOURS off the docks every day!"
Stargazing on clear nights: The coastal areas near Harborside offer exceptional night sky viewing. A visitor to Seawall Campground recommended, "For stargazers, the short walk across the street to the beach will give you some unbelievable views of the milky way when the night is at peak darkness."
What campers like
Cedar outdoor showers: Megunticook by the Sea Campground features unique shower facilities. A visitor commented, "The cedar showers are awesome! Hubby used the outdoor shower and thought it was great." Another camper added, "I made use of the cedar showers for a long hot shower- awesome!"
Island Explorer shuttle access: Blackwoods Campground provides convenient transportation options. A reviewer stated, "We were able to walk to the shuttle pickup and ride it to all stops in the park, and to Bar Harbor. It was so convenient!" This reduces traffic and parking concerns when visiting popular areas.
Fresh lobster availability: Many coastal campgrounds offer direct access to local seafood. At Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, "Highly highly recommend getting fresh lobster from the local lobster man that lives on the grounds, they even supply you with a pot to boil them!"
Proximity to hiking trails: Camden Hills State Park provides immediate trail access. As one camper noted, "One of the real pluses of this park were the miles and miles of hiking trails just outside our doorstep." Many campsites connect directly to trail networks.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most oceanfront sites book months in advance, especially at popular destinations like Mount Desert Campground. A visitor shared, "If you want a waterfront campsite - good luck! They let the families book them year over year so it's hard to get an opening to reserve those sites."
Tent platform considerations: Several campgrounds have elevated platforms for tent sites. According to a camper at Mount Desert, "Un-level sites have platforms to put your tent on. The office even has hammer and nails for you to use to secure everything."
Site size limitations: Some campgrounds restrict large RVs. A visitor noted, "Campers over 20 feet are not allowed. The sites are large however the terrain is difficult to navigate." Always confirm vehicle length restrictions before booking.
Off-site showers: Many national park campgrounds lack shower facilities. A Seawall Campground visitor explained, "Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water." Bring quarters and plan accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Searsport Shores Ocean Campground offers excellent water access for children. A visitor observed, "Kids ride their bikes everywhere. I'd say kids get to be just the right amount of feral here. It's a safe, quiet and fun park."
Educational ranger programs: National park campgrounds typically offer evening programming. At Blackwoods Campground, "The campground felt safe with Park Rangers walking around" and the park "hosts ranger talks every few nights" at the amphitheater.
Rock treasure hunting: Low tide reveals collecting opportunities along shorelines. One family mentioned, "At low tide you can do fun rock designs on the shore" at Searsport Shores Ocean Campground, providing a free activity for children.
Painted rock hunts: Some campgrounds organize scavenger activities. A parent noted at Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA, "my daughter begs to camp here...she loves the ice pop contest. if you find a painted rock and bring it to the office you get a free ice pop."
Tips from RVers
Generator restrictions: Most campgrounds near Acadia enforce strict generator policies. A visitor to Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA noted their campground provides "electric and water only, there is a dump station" but does not permit generator use.
Limited dump stations: Plan waste management carefully. One RVer explained, "There is NO dump station located at the campground however a few miles down the road, there is a campground that allows you to use theirs for a $20.00 fee."
Site selection strategy: Coastal Maine campgrounds often have varying site qualities. A visitor suggested, "You reserve a type of site, and then for an additional fee can reserve a specific site, if desired" to secure preferred amenities or views.
Satellite reception issues: Dense tree cover affects connectivity. A camper at Camden Hills State Park explained, "For television watchers, there is no cable and satellite can be difficult due to trees. There are nine sites (55 - 63) located in an open field that may be able to pick up satellite."
