Several seasonal campgrounds within driving distance of Monhegan Island accept visitors from May through October, when coastal Maine weather averages 60-75°F. Ferry service to Monhegan runs from Port Clyde, New Harbor, and Boothbay Harbor, creating practical basecamp options for mainland accommodations. Winter temperatures drop below freezing, making off-season camping rare in this region.
What to do
Kayaking on tidal waters: At Sagadahoc Bay Campground, visitors can experience Maine's dramatic tidal changes. "When the tide goes out you have the entire inlet to walk around in and explore. At night the stars were absolutely amazing!" notes Michael H. The campground offers oceanfront sites where campers can observe tidal patterns directly from their location.
Explore working farms: Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Campground combines camping with agricultural education on its 626-acre property. "We stayed here this summer and was one of our favorites ever! This campground is located on an organic dairy farm. There is a farm cafe on site with local food," reports Tonya M. The farm allows visitors to observe sustainable farming practices while camping along the coastline.
Hiking at Camden Hills: Camden Hills State Park Campground offers trail access directly from the campground. "The park has direct access to Mount Megunticook, and Mount Battie, and offers easy to advanced hikes. It's great to be able to do numerous hikes without having to leave the park," explains Heather C. The 5,700-acre park contains trails suitable for various skill levels.
What campers like
Fresh seafood delivery: Several campgrounds near Monhegan offer seafood service directly to campsites. "Fresh lobsters cooked and delivered to our campsite. Who could ask for anything more in ocean front camping," says Chrisdin D. about Sagadahoc Bay Campground. This convenient option allows campers to enjoy local cuisine without leaving the campground.
Quiet atmosphere: For those seeking less crowded glamping close to Monhegan, Maine, Sherwood Forest Campsite maintains a peaceful environment. "Not many campers here in October. Plenty of room, great showers, even though they cost a whole quarter! Good laundry facilities and restrooms. Dark and quiet, just the way we like it," notes Susan B. Many campgrounds in the region maintain quieter environments after peak summer season.
Oceanfront campsites: The region offers multiple options for waterfront camping. "The sites have always been tidy and staff friendly. Tent sites are close together but comfortable and the location is very convenient to Damriscotta and other downeast towns," reports Alison about Duck Puddle Campground. Waterfront sites typically cost more but provide direct water access.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limits: Most campgrounds in the region operate May through October. "Camden Hills State Park is centrally located, just at the edge of downtown Camden. It provides a great home base for hiking, biking, kayaking and exploring the Camden/Rockland area," says Heather C. Winter weather makes off-season camping impractical in coastal Maine.
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds maintain traditional booking methods. "This campground does not have an online reservation system. You have to mail in your request or call. When calling during the 'winter' months (anytime from September through Mid-June), staff can only be reached from 9:00-2:00," explains Kim H. about Hermit Island Campground. Check each campground's specific reservation process well in advance.
Bug protection essential: Mosquitoes present challenges at many coastal Maine campgrounds. "We got a space on the water and the view is so beautiful. What a lovely and well cared for campground!" notes Val about Shore Hills Campground, though many reviews across multiple locations mention mosquitoes. Pack appropriate repellent, especially for wooded sites.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Several campgrounds provide convenient beach proximity for families. "The path to Pemaquid beach is right at the end of the driveway and not much further to the historic fort. The Pemaquid Point lighthouse is 15 minutes away," reports Kevin W. about Sherwood Forest Campsite. This proximity reduces transportation needs for family beach outings.
Farm-based activities: Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Campground offers educational opportunities for children. "My kids enjoyed visiting with the farm animals and walking along the rocky shore each day. Plenty to do between biking, kayaking, farm experience and visiting downtown Freeport close by," shares Michele S. These interactive experiences provide educational entertainment without additional cost.
Pool alternatives: Some campgrounds offer swimming options beyond ocean access. "We enjoyed our stay at Duck Puddle Campground. The staff were friendly and the place seemed well run. Bathrooms were dated but clean. The site we had was on the water and had great views," comments Rachel S. Swimming pools provide safer alternatives to ocean swimming for young children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: RV sites vary significantly across campgrounds. "We had a site at the end that had wonderful views of the river and we could angle our camper so we had privacy. The river is tidal and so unless you want to wade threw mud there is not access beyond a couple hours around high tide," advises Rachel S. about Shore Hills Campground. Reserve waterfront sites early as they book quickly.
Electrical service considerations: Some campgrounds have limited electrical capacity. "We camped in a 45' RV and wanted a 50 amps full hook-up site severely limited our choices. We were assigned a pull thru that had such a steep incline we determined it best to actually back into the site so we didn't bottom out trying to get up the hill," shares Nancy W. about Meadowbrook Camping. Request specific site information before booking larger RVs.
Winter storage options: Few campgrounds near Monhegan offer year-round storage, requiring seasonal transport. Most RV-friendly sites close by mid-October and reopen in May. Check with individual campgrounds about potential off-season storage arrangements if planning multiple visits to the region.
