Isle au Haut is a remote 12.7-square-mile island located about 7 miles from the mainland in Knox County, Maine. The island experiences significant tidal changes of 9-12 vertical feet, creating challenging landing conditions for boats at high tide. Temperatures typically range from the mid-30s to mid-70s Fahrenheit throughout camping season, with fog frequently rolling in without warning.
What to Do
Kayaking Somes Sound: Rent double kayaks from Mount Desert Campground for water exploration. "We rented double kayaks from the front office for 2 hours and kayaked Somes Sound - it was beautiful water & amazing exploring! A bit more difficult with the ocean currents vs lake kayaking, so keep that in mind with kids," notes Whitney W.
Stargazing without light pollution: Head to the beach areas at night for exceptional celestial views. "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," according to Kyle R. at Seawall Campground.
Tide pool exploration: Low tide reveals marine ecosystems along rocky shores. "With coastal hikes so close, sunrise hikes and exploring the tide pools were outstanding!" shares Steve M.
Crabbing from docks: Purchase simple equipment for hours of entertainment. "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!" reports a Mount Desert Campground visitor.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced, wooded sites. At Greenlaw's RV Park, "This is a small, wooded campground with large private sites. They are working to improve the campground everyday," explains Ian R.
Ocean views: Several campgrounds offer direct water access. At Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, site 8 offers "unobstructed views of ocean and close to path to beach," according to Grace B.
Rustic experience: Duck Harbor provides a primitive camping experience while maintaining basic necessities. "You need to bring everything with you (except water) on the mailboat and then walk on a short distance to one of 5 campsites. It is a great place to just get away," shares Patricia P.
Fresh seafood: Local lobster is often available directly at campgrounds. One camper at Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls recommends "getting fresh lobster from the local lobster man that lives on the grounds, they even supply you with a pot to boil them!"
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Planning well ahead is essential for most sites. For Duck Harbor Campground, "if you don't go online within 10 minutes of opening day, April 1st, at 10 am EST, you will miss your chance to stay here for the whole year," warns Shari G.
Limited facilities: Many island sites have minimal amenities. "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," notes a reviewer describing Shivers Island.
Pay showers: Most campgrounds charge for shower use. At Blackwoods Campground, "Showers were around 10 minutes away and cost a decent amount was a little disappointing but livable," reports Maggie K.
Transportation logistics: The Isle au Haut mailboat from Stonington is the primary access method for Duck Harbor. Patricia P. notes: "The mailboat only goes to the campground from late June to late September; otherwise a 5 mile walk from town."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. At Smuggler's Den Campground, "There is a wonderful pool, a playground, and lots of outdoor toys including basketball's available to campers," says Jennifer P.
Site location strategy: Request sites near bathrooms when traveling with children. One camper recommends, "Perfect location for those traveling with small kids, as it was just a stone's throw from both the bathhouse and playground."
Swimming options: Fresh and saltwater swimming are available. "We went swimming at their beach and saw a seal!" shares Michael K. about Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls.
Kid-friendly hiking: Several trails are suitable for younger hikers. "Camp store was well-stocked, playground and pool looked brand new, and the bath house, while old, was among the brightest and cleanest I've ever seen in a private campground," notes Jen V.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds limit RV length. "Sites are not made for large RVs. They can fit smaller camper trailers and pop-ups, but that's about it," explains a Mount Desert visitor.
Hook-up options: Research site utilities before booking. At Camden Hills State Park, "Approximately, half the sites have water and 30/50 amp electric and the others are no hookups," according to a reviewer.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer this service. "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," advises Garrett D.
Road navigation: Island roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. "Although the park accommodates larger RV's, there are a limited number of sites for those over 35 feet and the gravel roads are easy to navigate in a big rig," shares a Camden Hills State Park camper.
