Tent campsites near Harborside, Maine offer distinct experiences from spring through fall, with July and August averaging 75-80°F during the day and 55-60°F at night. The region sits along Maine's rocky midcoast peninsula, where the high tide range of 9-14 feet significantly impacts beachfront access. Campers should prepare for rapid temperature drops in the evening and frequent morning fog that can linger until mid-day.
What to do
Blueberry picking in season: Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss offers camping on active blueberry fields during the late July-early August harvest. Visitors can either pick their own or watch the commercial raking crew at work. "We swam in the water everyday, and picked/ate the blueberries!" noted Korie M. in her review of the property.
Explore island trails: Duck Harbor Campground on Isle au Haut features several miles of moderate hiking trails. "There are several miles of moderate hikes. Starting in 2018 reservations will be online starting April 1," explains Patricia P. Duck Harbor is accessible by mailboat from Stonington from late June to late September.
Kayaking local waters: The Brooksville Town Landing and Bucks Harbor public boat launch provide convenient access points for paddling near Harborside. "The closest of which are the Brooksville Town Landing, or Bucks Harbor public boat launch," mentions Heather C., who stayed at Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss. These launches are suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
What campers like
Private farmland camping: Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss offers spacious sites on private land. "This is private land that the owner rents to campers. We stayed in campsite 2, where the land is open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv," writes Heather C. The property features four total campsites, each with different views and privacy levels.
Camping near ponds: Continuous Harmony Farm allows tent camping beside their farm pond. "The space is gorgeous, right next to a pond. Important to know though, there are several campsites," notes Adam B. Many campers enjoy listening to frogs and watching sheep at this working farm.
Clothing optional camping: For those seeking a unique experience, one campground provides clothing-optional tent sites. "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," shares Heather G. about her stay at Rough and Raw campground.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary widely: While mainland campgrounds like Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss take advance reservations, island sites on the Maine Island Trail operate on first-come, first-served basis. Saddleback Island requires Maine Island Trail Association membership for access but doesn't accept reservations.
Limited amenities on islands: Island campsites typically have no facilities. "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, and no reservations possible," explains Shari G. about Nathan Island. Pack everything you need.
Marine navigation skills required: Accessing island campsites demands preparation. "The fog can roll in at any minute so come prepared with a chart, compass, bearings between islands/markers and a marine radio," advises Shari G. about Shivers Island. Tidal changes significantly affect landing accessibility, with vertical ranges of 9-14 feet.
Tips for camping with families
Farm-based camping: Continuous Harmony Farm offers kid-friendly experiences with farm animals. "Park your van, or pop your tent, next to the pond. Chill out and watch the sheep," mentions Ashley F. Children can observe farm operations and wildlife around the pond.
Clear site designation: Some campgrounds have unmarked sites that can cause confusion. "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," reports Korie M. about Salt Pond Perfection. Call ahead to confirm site locations when camping with children.
Prepare for early mornings: Coastal camping means early wake-ups from working boats. "You may get awakened by the sound of lobster boats motors, as they start their day pretty darn early; bring ear plugs if you are light sleeper," warns a reviewer about Nathan Island. Pack earplugs for light-sleeping children.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Four Acre Woods Campground offers water and electric hookups but sites are tightly spaced. "All the things you need are there - firewood, water, bathrooms and showers, and even electricity at the site. Only thing is the sites are small and close together," notes Joann in her review.
Generator restrictions: Many campgrounds in the Harborside area prohibit generators. Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss specifically notes: "It is dry camping, with no hookups, and generators are not allowed." Plan for battery or solar power options instead.
Site leveling challenges: The region's rocky, hilly terrain creates leveling challenges for RVs. Heather C. notes about Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss: "The land is open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv," highlighting why this is an unusual benefit in this region where level sites are uncommon.
