The coastal region surrounding Machias, Maine features a rugged shoreline characterized by dramatic 20-foot tidal fluctuations. Located along the Downeast section of Maine's coastline, the area experiences significant seasonal temperature variations with average summer highs reaching 75°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from May through mid-October due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Kayaking around high tide: At Sunset Point RV Park in Lubec, campers can launch kayaks directly from the campground's mowed path to the water. "We loved hanging out at our campsite in the afternoon and watching the seals, bald eagles, seabirds, and the tides come and go," notes one visitor. Remember that tidal range is approximately 20 feet, requiring careful timing of paddling activities.
Visit Campobello Island: Located just across the border from Lubec, this island contains Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt's summer home, now open as a museum. "Bring your passport and cross over to Campobello Island which was the summer home of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt and is now a museum open for tours," suggests a camper. The island also features multiple hiking trails and two lighthouses.
Explore Quoddy Head State Park: This nearby state park offers oceanfront hiking trails and a picturesque lighthouse. "Nearby is Quoddy Head State Park which has some beautiful oceanfront hiking trails and a picturesque lighthouse," writes a reviewer. The park marks the easternmost point of the United States where visitors can view the sunrise first.
What campers like
Dark sky viewing: West Bay Acadia RV Campground in Gouldsboro is a certified dark sky park where campers are asked to turn off outside lights. "Recently added is a short nature trail and off leash dog park," mentions a reviewer. The minimal light pollution allows for spectacular views of stars, planets, and meteor showers.
Community gardens: Some campgrounds offer unique amenities like free produce. "We love the free community garden which has a wonderful selection of produce including strawberries, tomatillos, fresh herbs, beans, lettuces, etc. Feel free to pick whatever you will eat, just leave some for others," writes a camper about West Bay Acadia RV Campground.
Waterfront views: The region's coastal location provides exceptional viewing opportunities. "This has to be one of the prettiest campsites we've stayed in. On the water, shaded. Serene," notes a visitor to Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort. Some campgrounds like Seaview Campground even allow whale watching directly from campsites.
What you should know
Limited shower facilities: Some campgrounds lack full amenities. "There is no bathhouse so all units must be self-contained," explains a reviewer about West Bay Acadia RV Campground. At Jonesport Campground, "There is a vault toilet and a port a potty. There is also a honey wagon service that comes around weekly if you need it."
Cash-only policies: Several campgrounds don't accept credit cards. At Sunset Point RV Park, after payment "(Cash or check only, no credit cards), she gave us the lowdown on what we should see and do in the small town of Lubec, especially the West Quoddy house lighthouse."
Tidal considerations: The extreme tidal range affects water activities and access. "You will be left walking across muddy soft clam flats if you are not mindful of the 10-12 foot tides," warns a camper. Another notes, "Beware that the tidal range is around 20 feet so make sure you paddle around high tide or you will have to cross a mucky, seaweed covered, rocky clam flat to get back to shore."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Timberland Acres RV Park offers family-friendly facilities. "They have a store with basically anything you need. There's a Walmart down the road. It's 30 min from Acadia NP, 15-20 min from Bar Harbor and about 15 min from Ellsworth. Showers & boathouse was clean and showers were some of the best I've had on a campground," reports a visitor.
Consider tent sites for more space: At some campgrounds, tent sites offer better placement than RV sites. "The tent sites are great — right on the water's edge — and much more spacious and private than the hookup sites," notes a camper at Sunset Point RV Park. This provides families with more room to spread out.
Protect against insects: The region has significant seasonal pest issues. "Screen rooms are a good idea because the black flies and mosquitos in Maine can be quite pesky in the spring and summer," advises a camper. Bug spray with DEET is recommended, especially during evening hours.
Tips from RVers
Site selection importance: At Narrows Too Camping Resort, site selection significantly impacts experience quality. "The cheapest sites (the 100's and 200's) are near Route 3 which is a very busy road. Park staff is very accommodating and will let you move sites if you decide you prefer something different," advises an RVer. Always check campground maps before booking.
Wind considerations: The coastal location brings significant wind issues. "Warning: do not leave your awning out if you go away as the winds can really pick up in the afternoon and damage them," cautions a camper. RVers should secure loose items and retract awnings when leaving their site.
Water quality varies: Water systems at some campgrounds have issues. A visitor to Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort notes, "And there is defined an issue with the water. When we turned in the tap the water ran brown." Bringing drinking water or a good filtration system is recommended for RV camping near Machias, Maine.
