Jackson, Maine camping areas experience cool summers with average temperatures around 70°F in July and August. Most campgrounds open from May through mid-October due to cold winters. The area sits at an elevation of approximately 440 feet above sea level in Waldo County, where dense forests of pine and maple create natural windbreaks at many campsites.
What to do
Kayaking opportunities: At Patten Pond Camping Resort, visitors can rent kayaks for $10/hour and $5 for additional hours to explore the scenic pond. "The campsite has a nice pond attached... We went at the end of September to visit Acadia National Park and the foliage was Beautiful! It wasn't even at its peak. The campsite is surrounded by beautiful trees," reports Carolina L.
Hiking nearby: Moose Point State Park offers hiking trails within 2 miles of Belfast camping areas. The park features walking paths through coastal woods with ocean views. "Within two miles of the RV park is Moose Point State Park with a few miles of hiking trails, picnic area and water access (a daily use fee is charged)," notes a visitor to the area.
Beach access: Some campgrounds provide private ocean entry points for swimming or launching personal watercraft. "The ocean access in this park is great! A short set of stairs takes you down to the water which is great for exploring, launching kayaks, and letting the dog run/swim when the tide is out," explains a camper at Moorings Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Many campers appreciate oceanside sites for the constantly changing scenery with tides. "We got a waterfront lot but the brush is blocking most of view. The park is lovely and we look forward to what we discover!" shares Nancy at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds prioritize spacing and vegetation between camping spaces. "This is a small, wooded campground with large private sites. They are working to improve the campground everyday. The area is remote, services are around but limited," explains Ian R. about Greenlaw's RV Park & Campground.
Quiet atmosphere: Many RV parks maintain peaceful environments away from traffic noise. "It is quiet and so peaceful. We stayed is site U1 which was fantastic. Last site on the deadend road and was very secluded. We loved our stay!!!!" reports Angela about her experience at Greenlaw's RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate between May and October, with specific opening dates varying by location. "We stayed here in late May 2019 so maybe they were still working on cleaning up after the winter (wet spring)," notes Erik B. about his early-season experience.
Tidal considerations: Ocean access at coastal campgrounds changes dramatically with tides. "You will be left walking across muddy soft clam flats if you are not mindful of the 10-12 foot tides," warns a camper about kayaking from a coastal campground.
Campground amenities: Narrows Too Camping Resort offers full hookups, but not all sites have complete connections. "Not all campsites had full hookup and we were told that one of the dump stations worked, but as we were leaving, we realized it didn't," reports Megan F. about her recent stay.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Some campgrounds offer swimming pools as alternatives to ocean swimming. "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," explains Kasey M.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. "There is a swimming pool, playground, laundry, showers/bathrooms, free coffee in the morning, free weekend papers delivered to your site, free donuts on Sunday mornings, and a restaurant on-site," notes a camper describing amenities.
Wildlife awareness: Camden Hills RV Resort and other campgrounds have resident wildlife to watch for. "Be aware of skunks at night. They are everywhere in the campground," advises Tom D. about camping in the region.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for leveling RVs. "Our site was level but some are not very level and would have been a problem for us," explains Nancy W. about Camden Hills RV Resort.
Satellite reception: Heavily wooded campgrounds can interfere with satellite service. "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," advises an RV camper.
Large rig access: Pumpkin Patch RV Resort offers spacious sites for larger vehicles. "Sites are very clean, good space, well laid out and pretty level. Most sites are level and there are long pull thrus so you don't have to unhitch if you are only staying one night," shares Rick G. about his experience.