Tent campsites near Mount Desert, Maine range from secluded island retreats to private farm properties nestled among blueberry fields. The region's coastal location creates significant tidal fluctuations of 9-14 feet that directly impact boat landings and accessibility to many camping areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-75°F with frequent fog rolling in from the Atlantic.
What to do
Kayak to remote islands: The Maine Island Trail provides access to numerous tent camping opportunities on islands like Nathan Island, which sits just a stone's throw from Isle au Haut. "We stayed 2 nights on Nathan and paddled to Duck Harbor for some day hiking on Isle au Haut," shares one camper who appreciated the island's deep, rocky shore for watching sunrises and sunsets.
Explore hiking trails: Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land offers moderate hiking with scenic viewpoints. According to a reviewer, "The hiking is moderate with multiple trails and great views. The campsites 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 with a little more privacy."
Pick blueberries: During late July and early August, visitors can join the harvesting crew at Continuous Harmony Farm. "Chill out and watch the sheep, or pick your own blueberries alongside their raking crew in their organic wild blueberry barrens," notes one reviewer about this seasonal activity that carries an additional fee.
What campers like
Natural seclusion: The camping experience at Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss provides privacy across its four campsites. "We loved our stay at the blueberry fields! This is private land that the owner rents to campers. We stayed in campsite 2, where the land is open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv," writes one reviewer who appreciated the quiet setting.
Waterfront access: Campers at Donnell Pond enjoy swimming and camping directly on the beach. "This place is so breathtaking with the views! We boated to the boat with our gear and camped there. This lake is huge so keep that in mind. We parked at the public dock that has public parking and boated over to the beach. There are two beaches that you can camp on that have sites with fire rings and picnic tables," explains a visitor.
Clothing-optional options: Rough and Raw provides a unique primitive camping experience. "A true hidden gem. We had no idea there was a clothing optional site near Acadia and stumbled across this with hipcamp. A safe and lovely primitive site," notes one camper who appreciated this distinctive offering near Mount Desert.
What you should know
First-come, first-served system: Many tent campsites operate without reservations. At Saddleback Island, "there are no docks, so the islands are not accessible to large boats," and "since all of the islands are first-come, first-served, have a back-up plan for camping on another island."
Human waste disposal: Island campers must follow strict protocols for waste management. On Maine islands, "you are required to use Wag Bags instead of digging a cat hole to dispose of human waste," according to visitors who camped on islands in the region.
Weather unpredictability: Coastal fog can appear suddenly, requiring proper navigation tools. "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 camper.
Tidal considerations: Accessing island tent sites requires careful timing. Landing at high tide "is nearly impossible on Saddleback (and many other islands)" due to the significant tidal range, making arrival planning essential for safety.
Tips for camping with families
Choose farm settings: Continuous Harmony Farm offers family-friendly camping beside a pond with opportunities to watch farm animals. "The space is gorgeous, right next to a pond. Important to know though, there are several campsites. It's unclear how many campers could be there on any given night but it could be many," notes a visitor.
Consider walk-in sites: Donnell Pond's walk-in tent sites are manageable for families. "The hike in is only about 1/2 mile so it's totally doable even if you need to make two trips. The spots are secluded enough but not isolated. People in the other campsites were very friendly and respectful," reports one camper.
Plan for noise factors: Early morning sounds might disrupt light sleepers. Island campers "may get awakened by the sound of lobster boats motors, as they start their day pretty darn early; bring ear plugs if you are light sleeper," advises an experienced camper.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent campsites near Mount Desert have minimal or no RV amenities. At Duck Harbor Campground, campers need to "bring everything with you (except water) on the mailboat and then walk on a short distance to one of 5 campsites."
Consider private land camping: Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss accommodates RVs at their open, flat sites. "This is dry camping, with no hookups, and generators are not allowed. The owner had a picnic table set up with flower boxes in it, and there was a nice fire ring," explains a visitor who appreciated the rustic but welcoming setup.
Prepare for tight quarters: Four Acre Woods Campground has closely situated sites. According to a visitor, "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."
