Pet-friendly camping options dot the mid-Maine coast around Islesboro. The island sits in upper Penobscot Bay, with mainland campgrounds across elevations from sea level to 800 feet offering varied terrain and water access. Summer temperatures typically range 60-80°F, with coastal fog common in mornings and significant cooling after sunset even in July.
What to do
Kayak from your campsite: Megunticook by the Sea Campground offers direct water access for launching kayaks. "Our site was terrific - gorgeous view, and one of the larger waterfront spots. We could launch our kayaks directly from the site. The kayaking from the park is very good, with protected access into Mt. Desert Narrows," shares Heather C.
Explore hiking trails: Camden Hills State Park Campground features extensive trails just steps from campsites. "One of the real pluses of this park were the miles and miles of hiking trails just outside our doorstep. Driving the tour road to the summit of Mt. Battie (elevation 800') is a must and the views are spectacular," says Nancy W. The park spans 5,700 acres with trails ranging from easy to challenging.
Discover tidepools: During low tide at Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, explore the shoreline for marine life. "We went swimming at their beach and saw a seal!" reports Michael K. The rocky beach access requires a short walk down a path with two metal bridges to reach prime tidepool spots.
Attend a lobster bake: Several campgrounds offer weekly seafood feasts. "The owner through maps with us to point out the 'not to be missed' spots to visit... Already booked our next stay!" says Karen C. about Megunticook Campground's Saturday lobster dinners that typically cost $30-60 per person depending on menu options.
What campers like
Cedar outdoor showers: Megunticook Campground offers a unique bathing experience. "I made use of the cedar showers for a long hot shower- awesome! Crystal clean bathrooms," notes Karen C. These distinctive shower facilities are constructed like saunas, creating an outdoor feeling even while indoors.
Community atmosphere: Greenlaw's RV Park creates a friendly environment. "Reservations are on the honor system that you show up. No prepayment was required. An invoice is emailed to you with payment options the morning after you check in. It was refreshing to be trusted, like campgrounds used to be run," explains Coffee&Camping T.
Dark skies for stargazing: Seawall Campground offers exceptional night viewing. "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," mentions Kyle R. Light pollution is minimal, especially on the "quiet side" of Mount Desert Island.
Artist community interactions: Searsport Shores Ocean Campground integrates arts into camping. "This place is so much more than a beautiful campground nestled among gorgeous old growth trees located right on the shore. It's also a treasure trove of arts of all kinds - fiber arts, metal sculptures, carvings, paintings, and music," explains Kathy L.
What you should know
Reservation timing matters: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Islesboro book quickly, especially waterfront sites. "If you don't have a waterfront site, there are 2 water access areas that anyone can launch from," explains Heather C. about Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA. Reserve 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends.
Site selection considerations: Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA has privacy challenges. "Despite being next to the public oceanfront area (where lovely chairs and tables are provided) people would literally walk to the Oceanfront campsites and stand there snapping photos or just hanging around at sunset, even if my husband and I were sitting down at our picnic table eating our dinners," warns Meghan B.
Extra fees at some locations: Watch for additional charges. "I thought $50 for a tent site was a little steep but it was all the potential extra fees that irked me: $30 site lock to ensure you get the site you want when you reserve... $4 weather guarantee... $7.95 if you need to hook up to WiFi... $10 to use the dump station," notes Lee D. about Megunticook Campground.
Shower access varies: Acadia National Park campgrounds lack shower facilities. "Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water," reports Karla J.B. about Seawall Campground. Plan accordingly or choose a private campground with on-site facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Free activities for kids: Look for campgrounds with built-in entertainment. "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 Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA.
Pet-friendly beach access: Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Islesboro offer water access for dogs. "My family and I (two adults, 14 yo and a 9 yo) just visited Searsport Shores for the first time again since our kids were very little and were so happy to be back!" says April W. "The tent sites are completely separate from the RVs and are in the woods, beautifully maintained."
Playground options: Searsport Shores Ocean Campground provides multiple play areas. "Beautiful campground with a lot of space for kids and/or dogs to run around, including a jungle gym, basketball court, volley ball, and a dog run," notes peach L. The campground also features gardens, goats, and community fire rings.
Transportation planning: When visiting Acadia with kids, use public transit. "We were able to walk to the shuttle pickup and ride it to all stops in the park, and to Bar Harbor. It was so convenient!" says Roxanne R. about Blackwoods Campground. The Island Explorer bus system runs June-October with routes connecting campgrounds to beaches, trails, and towns.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Check length restrictions carefully. "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," advises Nancy W. about Camden Hills State Park Campground.
Setup assistance: Some campgrounds provide exceptional service. "Upon arrival we checked in, in the office/store. Then a staff member lead us to our site. We have a 19 ft travel trailer and are not very experienced with backing it up. The staff member was incredible with his directions and helped me back it into a small lot that went down hill and around a corner," describes Samantha S. at Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA.
Seasonal considerations: Water systems shut down early at many coastal Maine campgrounds. "We stayed for Memorial weekend. Staff was friendly and the local sites were plentiful," notes lacey about Megunticook by the Sea's May opening, but be aware most campgrounds winterize by mid-October, with limited services in shoulder seasons.