Dispersed camping areas near Holden, Maine offer primitive accommodations with minimal facilities. The region features several free or low-cost sites situated along rivers, in forests, and on coastal islands within reasonable driving distance. Most sites require self-sufficient camping practices including carrying in water and packing out waste. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the region, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during the day and dropping to 50-65°F overnight.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Machias River area provides excellent fishing conditions with varied catch. According to Tim M., who camps at Machias River Camp off Route 9: "Super cool mixed use land with established campsites. 6 or 7 in total I think. Right on Machias river."
Beach exploration: Coastal island sites offer unique shell collecting and beachcombing. On Doliver Island, Shari G. notes: "Gorgeous shell covered beach and a beautiful view of Isle au Haut, just next door."
Stargazing sessions: Island camping provides exceptional night sky viewing away from light pollution. At Marshall Island, campers report "Sand Cove is perfect for a beach fire and stargazing on a clear night–some of the best stargazing spots we've ever seen!"
What campers like
Affordability: Most dispersed sites in the region are free or low-cost. Gary, who stayed at Machias Rips Campsite, comments: "Great free off grid camping near Canadian border."
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate well-spaced accommodations. John R. notes about Machias Rips: "There is about 4 Sites with river front views and trails leading to the water from each camp. There are also bigger sites for campers and RVs."
Easy water access: Many sites feature direct water frontage. Shari G. describes Buckle Island as "perfect for those new to sea kayak camping as the sandy shore, which is exposed for a good portion of the day, is easy to land on and a short walk to a trail into the woods."
What you should know
Cell service variability: Coverage depends on carrier and exact location. About Machias Rips, John R. reports: "Most Cell phone carriers won't have service back at the camp, I myself had to drive 20 Minutes up the road for signal, A cell signal booster may work here." However, Gary contradicts with: "The only exception is that we had 4 bars of LTE service (AT&T) which was nice."
Insect preparation: Bugs can be problematic depending on season and time of day. Gary warns: "Camp sites today are very buggy–bring your repellent and/or netting." For Wheat Island, Shari G. adds: "Be prepared for mosquitoes. We thought we were passed mosquito season in early September, but alas, they were pretty bad at sunset."
Landing challenges: Boat-in sites require planning around tides. For Wheat Island, Shari G. cautions: "This can be a tricky island to land on at high tide, so plan accordingly."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly sites: Some locations work well for those new to rustic camping near Holden, Maine. Shari G. recommends Buckle Island: "This is a perfect island for those new to sea kayak camping as the sandy shore, which is exposed for a good portion of the day, is easy to land on and a short walk to a trail into the woods."
Wildlife viewing: Children enjoy spotting local fauna. Fishing in the Machias River yields diverse catches, with John R. reporting: "I've caught smallmouth bass, chubs and trout in the river so far! (Black and silver Jerk baits work great)"
Space constraints: Some sites have limited capacity for multiple tents. Shari G. describes Doliver Island as "small with barely a tent space, but a good stop for us on our 9 day journey."
Tips from RVers
Access road conditions: Roads leading to dispersed sites may have rough sections. John R. describes the Machias Rips access: "The dirt road leading to the camp can be easily missed if not paying attention! But is clearly marked with a blue sign at the head of the road... The road has a few pot holes but nothing my stock (Low to the ground) Dodge Caravan couldn't handle."
Bathroom facilities: Many rustic sites offer minimal or no bathroom facilities. Sarah C. mentions Machias Rips has "a relatively new and quite clean pit toilet available for use," while island campers must bring waste disposal supplies.
Site sizes: RV accommodation varies by location. At Machias Rips, John R. notes: "There are also bigger sites for campers and RVs." Be sure to check site specifications before attempting access with larger vehicles.
