Cabin camping near Machiasport, Maine offers rustic accommodations surrounded by the region's extensive coastal wilderness. Located in Washington County along the Bold Coast, this area experiences cooler summer temperatures averaging 70-75°F during peak season, with chilly nights even in August. Most cabin properties operate seasonally from late May through mid-October, with weather dictating exact opening and closing dates.
What to do
Paddle the Machias River: Access prime kayaking spots from Machias Rips Campsite where primitive cabins provide a base for exploring the river corridor. "Beautiful place. Clean sites. Easy to find and right off rt 9," notes a visitor who appreciated the convenient river access.
Explore Schoodic Peninsula: Schoodic Woods Campground offers cabin options with proximity to lesser-visited Acadia National Park sections. "This campground is a gem! It is located on the Schoodic Peninsula which is the quieter side section of Acadia National Park but no less breathtaking. Here you get to enjoy the hiking and biking trails, amazing coastal scenery, quaint towns, and a peaceful campground in one of America's top 10 parks without the crowds," explains a visitor who valued the tranquility.
Fish local lakes: Keenes Lake Family Campground provides lakeside cabins with fishing access. "We stayed here one night in mid September. There are new owners and they are really nice people. It is hard to get a level site but the owner let us pick what was best for us based on what was available," reports a guest who found the accommodations flexible for anglers.
What campers like
Quiet waterfront settings: Cabin rentals at Acadia Seashore Camping and Cabins feature ocean views with minimal noise pollution. "The owners are incredibly friendly and had a lot of great recommendations for things to do and where to eat. The campsites are spacious," writes one visitor who appreciated the local knowledge provided by staff.
Rustic charm over luxury: Many cabins maintain traditional camp elements. "Sleeping in the TeePee was an incredible experience and we would definitely do it again - so fun!" reports a visitor about the alternative cabin experiences at some properties.
Seasonal property specials: Several cabin operators offer reduced rates for multi-night stays during shoulder seasons. "Great place to stay. Sue and Peter are wonderful and make you feel like family! The grounds are kept in immaculate shape. It's away from Bar Harbor but close enough to go visit," notes a guest who found value in staying at a family-operated property.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many cabin locations have minimal connectivity. "It is very quiet and there is 0 cell service! Perfect place with lots to do at the campground! Great location to just disconnect from the rest of the world!" reports a visitor to Great Pond Outdoor Recreation Area.
Seasonal operations vary: Most cabin properties close completely from November through April. "New park so lots of construction going on. Owner is very helpful. Will be a great park when it really gets going. W/E/S at most sites. Reasonable price. 35 to 45 bucks, in Maine thats not bad," notes a guest about evolving facilities.
Resource limitations: Mainstay Cottages & RV Park and similar small cabin operations have minimal on-site amenities. "Very small RV site. 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. Owners are very nice," explains a visitor who found the location compensated for limited facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Pack games for wet weather: The Downeast region receives significant rainfall even in summer. "Lovely place on a small lake. Staff was wonderful, the site was lovely with a great view of the lake. The lake was clean and we swam, kayaked and crossed the lake on paddle boards," reports a visitor who found water activities plentiful when weather permitted.
Insect protection essential: Black fly season runs from May through mid-June. "Only downside was we went during black fly season, wait until they are gone to be able to enjoy it fully!" warns one family who learned the hard way.
Utilize campground programs: Several cabin locations offer children's activities during peak weeks. "The owners were so incredibly nice and helpful! They not only surprised our girls with picks of their own antique dolls on arrival but they gave us their own brochure with hidden gems all around the area," shares a family who benefited from family-friendly gestures at Hadley's Point Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Cabin and RV sites often share common areas. "Spot 18 is perfect! The view is spectacular. The campground is small and very quiet. There are clean bathrooms and showers available," recommends a camper about specific site locations.
Utility considerations: Some cabins have limited electricity amperage. "If you're looking for a camp site close to Acadia without the crowd, look to MainStay in Winter Harbor. About an hours drive to the main Acadia but just 5 minutes to the Schoodic Peninsula," suggests a visitor who found location outweighed utility limitations.
Weather adaptability: Maritime climates require flexible planning. "Grass sites w gravel pads. Std bathhouse. Ocean (bay) view. Low tide beaches (rocky but smooth). Steps to beach. Great views. Pull thru and back-in. No black hookups, but honey wagon service," details a practical reviewer who noted the basic site conditions.
