Tent sites around Holden, Maine range from free backcountry spots to established campgrounds with basic facilities. Most require some travel on dirt roads, with many accessible sites located within 45 minutes of town. The region features multiple public land areas offering primitive camping near ponds and lakes. Typical camping season runs from May through October, with insect activity highest in June and July.
What to do
Hiking at Donnell Pond: The area offers moderate trails with mountain views. Hike the half-mile trail to reach the walk-in tent sites or tackle longer routes for panoramic vistas. According to a camper, "The hiking is moderate with multiple trails and great views. The one site that is easily accessible is a half mile hike with 9 campsites."
Paddling on local waterways: Shivers Island provides boat-in camping opportunities for kayakers exploring the Deer Isle Archipelago. One reviewer noted important preparation advice: "the fog can roll in at any minute so come prepared with a chart, compass, bearings between islands/markers and a marine radio."
Blueberry picking: Visit Continuous Harmony Farm during late July and early August for a unique camping experience. A camper shares, "Chill out and watch the sheep, or pick your own blueberries alongside their raking crew in their organic wild blueberry barrens."
What campers like
Secluded lakeside camping: Gassabias Lake campsites offers free primitive sites away from crowds. A visitor explains, "3 secluded spots on a dead-end road. Wooded, path to the lake. Each site includes fire ring and picnic table, and share a pit toilet." The same reviewer adds, "Being wooded, it's a tad cooler here, but the bugs are still obnoxious. If you enjoy listening to Loons, they put on quite a symphony."
Beachfront tent sites: Campers at Donnell Pond appreciate the lakeside locations. One visitor reported, "This place is so breathtaking with the views! We boated to the boat with our gear and camped there. There are two beaches that you can camp on that have sites with fire rings and picnic tables."
Clothing optional camping: Some visitors seeking alternative camping experiences appreciate Rough and Raw campground. A camper noted, "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."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent camping near Holden requires self-sufficiency. Gassabias Lake campsites has no drinking water and follows strict carry-in, carry-out principles. A visitor cautions about access: "Road into camp is dirt and some of it can be rough. Cars can make it just go slow. Over 20 miles from paved road."
First-come, first-served policies: Most primitive sites cannot be reserved. At Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss, however, you can secure a spot in advance. The property offers "level sites, views of rolling blueberry fields, a picnic table, and other goodies from your host."
Weather considerations: Fog can roll in quickly near coastal camping areas. Pack appropriate navigation tools and equipment for rapidly changing conditions, especially when island camping or boating to remote sites.
Tips for camping with families
A-frame options: The Hawnets Nest provides both tent camping and an A-frame structure that works well for families not wanting to pitch a tent. A visitor noted, "The Hawnets Nest is the perfect stop for adventure, accommodations include a cool A-Frame or bring-your-own Tent!"
Swimming opportunities: Several camping locations offer safe swimming access for children. At Donnell Pond, a camper mentioned, "We were able to swim here as well. We went fishing and did catch a couple of fish!"
Farm experiences: Continuous Harmony Farm combines tent camping with educational farm activities. The campground features a pond where families can "listen to the frogs while you camp on this gorgeous farm!" According to a visitor, the property allows you to "park your van, or pop your tent, next to the pond."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Few campgrounds near Holden offer RV hookups or dedicated RV sites. Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss can accommodate smaller RVs without hookups. A camper reported, "We stayed in campsite 2, where the land is open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv. It is dry camping, with no hookups, and generators are not allowed."
Generator restrictions: Most primitive camping areas prohibit generator use, requiring RVers to be self-sufficient with battery or solar power. Plan accordingly when booking sites away from established campgrounds.
