Camping near Lincolnville Center, Maine offers a mix of experiences from lakeside settings to oceanfront locations within the same region. The area sits at the intersection of the Camden Hills and Penobscot Bay, with elevations ranging from sea level to over 800 feet at nearby Mount Battie. Summer temperatures typically average 75-80°F during peak camping season, while early fall brings temperatures down to the 50s-60°F range with fewer crowds.
What to do
Kayaking at Warren Island State Park: Located offshore from Lincolnville, this boat-access-only island offers unique camping opportunities. "I love Warren Island. I have been going every year for a week each summer for the past 18 years," shares a visitor at Warren Island State Park Campground. Launch from the ferry landing at Lincolnville Beach for approximately a half-mile paddle to the island dock.
Hike Mount Megunticook: The trails in Camden Hills State Park provide excellent day hiking opportunities with ocean views. "The park has around 100 sites that are categorized by size, and allows RVs and tents. The top portion of the park has direct access to Mount Megunticook, and Mount Battie, and offers easy to advanced hikes," notes a camper at Camden Hills State Park Campground.
Blueberry picking: Available during late July and early August at local farms. "Chill out and watch the sheep, or pick your own blueberries alongside their raking crew in their organic wild blueberry barrens. This experience is available only during blueberry season," mentions a visitor at Continuous Harmony Farm.
What campers like
Cedar showers at Megunticook: The unique outdoor shower facilities receive consistent praise. "The bathrooms are clean and the cedar showers are awesome! We've been excited to come back here since we left," writes a camper at Meguniticook by the Sea Campground.
Lakefront sites: Waterfront locations offer direct water access for swimmers and paddlers. "We love the proximity to the lake with easy access for kayaking and swimming. New ownership this year resulted in some updates, as well as the addition of glamping tents near the beach," notes a visitor at Sennebec Lake Campground.
Arts programming: Some campgrounds incorporate cultural activities. "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 a camper about Searsport Shores Ocean Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking during summer months. Sites at popular locations fill quickly, especially waterfront options. "We are full time RV'rs and have stayed at lots of campgrounds but this place holds a special place in our hearts. We have stayed a number of times and it is like seeing old friends when we return," notes a regular at Searsport Shores Ocean Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. "Sites and patios are gravel and level with a picnic table and fire pit. Approximately half the sites have water and 30/50 amp electric and the others are no hookups," explains a visitor about Camden Hills State Park.
Additional fees: Some campgrounds charge extra for services beyond the base site fee. "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," reports a camper at Megunticook Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: For families with children, campgrounds with swimming pools provide recreation options when ocean water is too cold. "It is a great place to stay, quiet and they have events during holidays (fireworks, food truck and live music). There is a pond and also a swimming pool and playground, also a little store in the office," explains a visitor at Northport Campground.
Weekend activities: Many campgrounds schedule family programming on weekends. "Activities started up again this year, with events such as kids' crafts, a kids vs adults water gun fight, cornhole competition, and a DJ for an evening of dancing - just on the weekend we were there," shares a parent who stayed at Sennebec Lake Campground.
Arcade access: Some campgrounds maintain game rooms for rainy days. "We discovered this campsite in 2020 and just returned from our third year in a row camping here with 2 kids. There is a small arcade, store, and 24/7 laundry," notes a family who regularly visits Sennebec Lake Campground.
Tips from RVers
Tree clearance: Be aware of low-hanging branches at some campgrounds. "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," warns an RVer who stayed at Camden Hills RV Resort.
Off-season availability: Late September and early October offer fewer crowds. "I was worried when I decided to come to this part of Maine in the fall without reservations. It's early October, and I learned that Maine State Parks are first come first serve at this point. I was pleasantly surprised to arrive and find plenty of vacant spots," shares a camper at Camden Hills State Park.
Site selection advice: RVers recommend researching specific site dimensions. "The campground is large, and most of the sites are on the larger side. They tend to be nestled into the woods with plenty of trees, dividing the sites. Though some of the smaller RV sites are more compact," notes a visitor at Camden Hills State Park.
