Most campgrounds near Islesboro operate from May through October, with high season extending from mid-June to early September. Located in Penobscot Bay, Islesboro sits a short ferry ride from Lincolnville and serves as a gateway to explore Maine's coastal attractions. The region experiences average summer highs around 75°F with frequent coastal fog that can roll in suddenly, particularly in the morning hours.
What to do
Explore Acadia's lesser-known sections: The Schoodic Peninsula portion of Acadia National Park offers similar natural beauty with significantly fewer crowds than the main park. "Close to Acadia NP, Ellsworth, and numerous other hikes and coastal attractions, making it a perfect base for exploring the area," notes a visitor to Timberland Acres RV Park.
Ferry adventures: Take the ferry from Winter Harbor to Bar Harbor for unique coastal perspectives. "Located on Winter Harbor, great views. Steps away from the small ferry that goes to Bar Harbor and a few minutes to Schoodic Peninsula. Couple of nice restaurants close by," reports a camper from Mainstay Cottages & RV Park.
Local paddling: Many campgrounds offer kayak and canoe rentals for exploring protected coves. "The camp store rents two-person kayaks and canoes for a very reasonable price of $10/hour and $5 for additional hours. However, you have about a four-hour window to paddle because of the tides," explains a visitor to Moorings Campground.
What campers like
Oceanfront camping: Premium waterfront sites provide direct water access despite significant tides. "Our site was one of the premium ocean front lots and it was beautiful. The view was incredible. We could watch cars driving up Cadillac Mountain from our camp chairs!" shares a camper at Narrows Too Camping Resort.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites with natural settings. "The sites are well spaced apart, some wooded and some are not. The campground was quiet, no road noise, safe. A fairly new Pickle Ball court was a pleasant surprise. Plenty of space to walk your dog," notes a visitor to Greenlaw's RV Park & Campground.
Low-key social activities: Campgrounds organize community gatherings that enhance the experience. "We like the fact that they had social activities (like free happy hour and donuts) that bring people together," explains a visitor describing the Sunday morning donut tradition at oceanfront resorts.
What you should know
Off-peak advantages: Visiting before mid-June or after Labor Day means significantly fewer crowds. "The shoulder season here is the best time to come. Preferably in the spring before mid-June or the fall when the leaves are changing color. Not all businesses and restaurants will be open before mid-June but you will have far less crowds than in the busy summer months."
Tidal considerations: The region's 10-12 foot tides significantly impact water activities and views. "While the tide is out it's just a gross area of mud, muck, and rocks. We couldn't even kayak because the tide is that dramatic," cautions a camper at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Variable WiFi quality: Internet connectivity varies widely between campgrounds. "The wifi was hit or miss. All sites and patios are gravel with some grass between them," notes a camper, while another states, "Be aware that cell phone reception is dismal at best. The camp wifi is just okay, but gets congested easily."
Tips for camping with families
Check amenities carefully: Not all campgrounds cater to children. "The park doesn't offer many kid-friendly amenities beyond the pool, so families with young children might find it lacking in entertainment options," advises a visitor to Narrows Too Camping Resort.
Consider seasonal planning: Some family amenities operate on limited schedules. "The kids loved playing on the playground and going down to the water at low tide. There is a kayak launch as well, and pool, but both were closed since we came in at the end of season," reports a camper at Mt Desert Narrows.
Wildlife awareness: Evening wildlife visitors are common at campgrounds. "One note: be aware of skunks at night. They are everywhere in the campground," warns a camper about nocturnal visitors common throughout the region.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choosing the right location matters for RV comfort. "We upgraded to the oceanfront sites and though we enjoy camping on the water, the waterfront sites are very expensive and very close together," notes an RVer at Pumpkin Patch RV Resort, while another camper adds, "Sites are very clean and the park is well-groomed with maintenance people always mowing or cleaning sites. There is pretty good space between sites so you don't feel cramped."
Pine sap concerns: Some forested sites create challenges for RVs. "Lots of tall pine trees provide shade but also make it a little difficult to navigate the roads. We had to go pretty slow to avoid hitting tree branches. Parking under the pines also meant a lot of sap on our roof which was a bear to remove."
Satellite reception limitations: Tree coverage affects entertainment options. "Satellite reception was also a problem because of the trees. It is best to have a portable unit but even then, it could be difficult to get reception," explains a camper about connectivity challenges at forested rv sites near Islesboro, Maine.
