Island camping is the defining feature of tent campsites near Lamoine, Maine, with most sites accessible only by boat or through moderate hiking trails. The region sits at the confluence of Blue Hill and Frenchman Bays, where tides can fluctuate 9-14 vertical feet daily, dramatically altering shorelines and landing conditions. Water temperatures rarely exceed 55°F even in summer months, requiring proper preparation for paddlers.
What to do
Hiking at Donnell Pond: Walk approximately half a mile from the parking area to access multiple trails with varying difficulty levels. Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land offers several hiking options with mountain views. "The hiking is moderate with multiple trails and great views... Pros: free camping, not swamped by tourists, fire permitted, great hiking and views, and a beautiful pond that's more like a lake," notes a camper.
Island exploration: Paddle to Nathan Island for a base camp to explore Isle au Haut. "We stayed 2 nights on Nathan and paddled to Duck Harbor for some day hiking on Isle au Haut," reports one kayaker who found the location perfect for accessing Acadia's remote sections.
Swimming and fishing: Several sites permit swimming in summer months when water temperatures are tolerable. "We were able to swim here as well. We went fishing and did catch a couple of fish!" mentions a camper who stayed at Donnell Pond's beach sites.
What campers like
Remote island solitude: Shivers Island offers complete privacy with minimal facilities. One reviewer called it "perfect for just 2 people, known locally as Honeymoon Island" and noted it provides unobstructed stargazing due to "no city lights or trees to obstruct your view."
Simple amenities: Duck Harbor Campground provides basic comforts like lean-to structures with picnic tables and fire rings. "Each of the 5 sites offers a classic lean-to structure with a campfire ring and a picnic table. But it's not the site which makes this place so special," writes a camper who appreciated the balance of amenities and wilderness.
Wild blueberry fields: Some private tent sites offer unique settings. "The land was quiet and peaceful - it is acres of blueberry fields, which create a special sense of being in nature," reports a camper who stayed at Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss, noting how the landscape creates a distinct camping experience.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Duck Harbor's five sites require advance planning. "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 a camper about the reservation process.
Weather unpredictability: Fog forms quickly in coastal areas, requiring proper navigation equipment. "The fog can roll in at any minute so come prepared with a chart, compass, bearings between islands/markers and a marine radio," advises an experienced paddler.
Human waste management: Island campers must use specific disposal methods. "You are required to use Wag Bags instead of digging a cat hole to dispose of human waste," notes a reviewer describing camping protocols on the Maine islands.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection considerations: Not all sites work well for families with children. For those with kids, opt for established campgrounds rather than remote islands. "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," notes a reviewer describing Saddleback Island, indicating these conditions may challenge families.
Nearby towns for supplies: Know where to restock necessities. "The nearby village of Stonington has everything you may need for your island camping adventure," mentions a camper, identifying crucial access points for provisions.
Accessibility limitations: Plan travel carefully with children in mind. "The sites are a little cramped unless you have a boat or are a ultralight back packer and want to either cross the lake by boat or hike a few miles to a camp site," warns a Donnell Pond visitor about the effort required to reach more private sites.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping near Lamoine occurs on islands or in primitive areas unsuitable for RVs. "We stayed in campsite 2, where the land is open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv. It is dry camping, with no hookups, and generators are not allowed," reports an RVer who stayed at Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss, one of the few RV-accessible options.
Alternative options: Seek campgrounds in neighboring towns for RV amenities. "All the things you need are there - firewood, water, bathrooms and showers, and even electricity at the site. Only thing is the sites are small and close together," notes a reviewer from Four Acre Woods Campground, highlighting a potential drawback for larger rigs.
