Cabin camping near Islesboro, Maine offers convenient access to Penobscot Bay's rocky coastlines and island vistas. Located in the midcoast region with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-80°F, these accommodations provide a middle ground between tent camping and vacation rentals. Most cabins in the area open from mid-May through mid-October, with peak season rates increasing from July through Labor Day.
What to do
Kayaking from your cabin site: At Searsport Shores Ocean Campground, waterfront activities are easily accessible. "We got lucky and stayed on a lovely weekend in September that featured a small, intimate festival and workshop of fiddlers, banjos, ukuleles, mandolins, and guitars jamming with old time and blue grass music," notes Kathy L., highlighting the diverse activities beyond water sports.
Low tide exploration: Several cabin sites provide direct access to Maine's distinctive shoreline. "At low tide you can do fun rock designs on the shore," writes Stacy M. about the oceanfront sites at Searsport Shores. The campground also features scattered art in gardens, making it a creative destination.
Island transit adventures: Cabins at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort offer a strategic location for exploring nearby islands. "10-15 from downtown Bar Harbor and the gorgeous Acadia NP," says Kasey M., who appreciated the convenience during her birthday vacation. The resort provides a kayak launch for water-based exploration.
What campers like
Cedar shower facilities: Meguniticook by the Sea Campground receives consistent praise for its distinctive shower facilities. "The showers are of similar construction to a sauna and it feels like a hot shower outdoors," explains Rafi K., who rated it as the "Best Campground Ever." These cedar showers provide a unique amenity not found at most cabin sites.
Lobster dinners: Many cabin facilities organize weekly seafood events. "They host a Lobster bake on Saturdays and it was so good," shares Mona S. about her experience at Meguniticook by the Sea. The campground also offers "free coffee in the office at 8" - a morning perk for cabin campers.
Community atmosphere: Smuggler's Den Campground creates an environment where cabin renters can interact with other campers. "Staff is extremely friendly. Campground has a small camp store, a heated pool and children's pool, large home style gas grills with picnic area," writes Seth W., noting the communal cooking facilities that encourage social interaction.
What you should know
Reservation windows: Many cabin facilities book far in advance, particularly for waterfront units. At Sennebec Lake Campground, one camper mentioned, "Decided to go camping for our anniversary weekend the night before our visit. Very few sites open and some reviews weren't great. Couldn't be happier about this place." This suggests flexibility can sometimes work, but planning ahead is recommended.
Cabin accessibility variations: Each property offers different levels of access to amenities. "The sites are a decent size and the campground is fairly quiet at night," notes a family that has returned to Sennebec Lake for three consecutive years, highlighting the proximity to "the lake with easy access for kayaking and swimming."
Seasonal limitations: Most cabins near Islesboro close after Columbus Day. "We visited this campground in May 2021. The sites were clean and the owners very friendly and helpful," reports one visitor at Meguniticook, but adds "The pool was not open at the time we visited," indicating that some amenities have shortened seasons.
Kitchenette provisions: Cabin rentals vary widely in kitchen facilities. Some provide basic cookware while others require bringing all supplies. "There is a small pavilion for campground-communal lobster/clam bakes," notes Eileen N. about her stay at Seawall Campground, suggesting community cooking options when cabin facilities are limited.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When booking a cabin with children, request sites near play facilities. "Perfect location for those traveling with small kids, as it was just a stone's throw from both the bathhouse and playground," advises Jen V. about Smuggler's Den Campground, noting that her site "Easily fit our pop-up, TV, and screen house."
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds coordinate regular events for younger guests. "My daughter begs to camp here. As with any KOA they have lots of activities throughout the day for families, and a pool, but she loves the ice pop contest. if you find a painted rock and bring it to the office you get a free ice pop," shares Melissa N. about the Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA, highlighting simple yet engaging activities.
Teen-friendly options: For families with older children, consider cabin properties with technology access. "We camped here with our camper van for 4 days, and were absolutely thrilled with the experience," writes Zachary F. about Megunticook Campground, noting "The camp store was well stocked with anything we needed" - important for keeping teens supplied and content.
Tips from RVers
Satellite and reception issues: Many wooded cabin sites have limited connectivity. "No WiFi or cable hook up and sewer hooks are limited but we liked it," notes Michael E. about Sennebec Lake Campground, suggesting visitors plan ahead for entertainment needs.
Seasonal water systems: Some cabin facilities experience water quality fluctuations. "There is defined an issue with the water. When we turned in the tap the water ran brown," reports a camper at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort, recommending that visitors bring drinking water early or late in the season.
Transportation planning: Cabin-style accommodations near Islesboro often provide access to public transportation. "The Island Explorer bus for Acadia National Park stops at the campground, so you have easy access without driving," explains one reviewer at Bar Harbor KOA, noting this can reduce parking challenges during peak season visits.
