Camping near Northport, Maine provides a mix of inland and coastal camping options within a 25-mile radius. Situated along Penobscot Bay with an average summer temperature of 75°F, the region features a unique mix of forest and oceanfront terrain. Campground operations typically run from mid-May through mid-October, with most sites requiring advance reservations during July and August.
What to do
Hiking at Camden Hills State Park: This 5,700-acre park offers miles of hiking trails accessible from the campground. Campers can climb Mount Battie for panoramic views of the coast. A visitor notes, "The camp sites are large and well spaced apart. Bathrooms were clean. We loved the view from the top of Mt. Battie. Definitely check out the trails along the ocean" (Jacki B., Camden Hills State Park Campground).
Kayaking from boat-access sites: Several campgrounds provide water access for kayak launching. Warren Island State Park requires boat transportation to reach the island. "The island is boat access only. The island has a floating dock on the side facing Islesboro, in the small cove formed with Spruce island" (Thatcher, Warren Island State Park Campground).
Beach exploration: While swimming may be limited due to rocky terrain and cold water, many coastal campgrounds have access for rock collecting and tidepooling. "Beautiful, quiet location with views of the deer isle bridge and access to walking the beach. Owners are so nice and friendly and accommodating" (Jillian B., Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls).
Lobster bakes: Multiple campgrounds offer regular lobster bakes during summer months. "We had the lobster dinner they offered and it was excellent. I will come back again" (Ashley L., Searsport Shores Ocean Campground).
What campers like
Cedar outdoor showers: Unique to the region, several campgrounds feature cedar-constructed shower facilities. "The bathrooms were very clean. The cedar showers are awesome! We've been excited to come back here since we left" (Chelsea, Meguniticook by the Sea Campground).
Proximity to towns: Campers appreciate being close to small coastal communities. "Camden Hills State Park is located three miles from downtown Camden but the 5,700 acres provide you with that serene feeling that comes with being in the peaceful woods" (Nancy W., Camden Hills State Park Campground).
Arts and music programs: Some campgrounds feature artistic activities and musical performances. "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" (Kathy L., Searsport Shores Ocean Campground).
Lake swimming options: For those seeking freshwater alternatives, lake campgrounds provide swimming access. "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" (Pam A., Sennebec Lake Campground).
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds charge extra for premium waterfront sites, and some have booking minimums during peak season. "Corporations are buying up the private campgrounds and charging ridiculous prices. The three around Camden, ME have 4 day minimums making the most basic RV site $225 to $260 per stay" (Mike V., Meguniticook by the Sea Campground).
Site variations: Campgrounds offer diverse site types with varying levels of privacy and amenities. "Campsite are nice great for tents and RV's. Lots of nice hikes close by with amazing views would definitely go back" (Andrew G., Camden Hills State Park Campground).
Transportation considerations: Campgrounds with boat-only access require additional planning. "If you don't have a bigger boat, it is easiest to take the ferry (Margret Chase Smith) from Lincolnville Maine, to Grindel pt on Islebroro. Just off the ferry there is a boat launch, with edge of road parking farther in towards town" (Thatcher, Warren Island State Park Campground).
Local weather patterns: Being on the coast means potential for variable weather conditions. "I have been there in all conditions and always loved it, whether it was the time where there was a thunderstorm and a tree got near our site, or the fun time when the tails of a hurricane came through" (Thatcher, Warren Island State Park Campground).
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds provide play areas for children. "Gardens are really nice with scattered art in the gardens, goats. And lots of little activities like horseshoes, Giant connect four games, hammock etc" (Stacy M., Searsport Shores Ocean Campground).
Kid-friendly programming: Some campgrounds schedule activities specifically for younger campers. "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" (Pam A., Sennebec Lake Campground).
Site selection considerations: When traveling with children, choose sites strategically based on bathroom proximity and noise factors. "We are pop-up campers. We had plenty of room for our camper. Dog friendly. Bathrooms were very clean. 'Playground' is a bit of a stretch. Firewood was a bit pricey at $7 a bundle" (Jimmy M., Camden Hills State Park Campground).
Rain contingency plans: Indoor common areas provide backup options during wet weather. "The rec room is a large but cozy place to hang out if/when it rains, with a fireplace and cozy couches" (April W., Searsport Shores Ocean Campground).
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Many campgrounds in the area have size restrictions. "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" (Nancy W., Camden Hills State Park Campground).
Hookup availability: Full-service sites with water, electric, and sewer are limited at most campgrounds. "Nice small campground with the lake and lake side camping available. No WiFi or cable hook up and sewer hooks are limited but we liked it" (Michael E., Continuous Harmony Farm).
Level site information: Some campgrounds have more naturally level sites than others. "We have a 35ft RV, and we faced no issues getting in and out of the property and the sites across the water were level, with no extra leveling needed" (Jason G., Sennebec Lake Campground).
Traffic noise considerations: Some campgrounds are close to main roads. "We enjoyed our stay here in our motor home. The deck on the ocean is a great place to picnic. The only downside to this campground is traffic noise from Route 1! Not bad at night but it does start early in the morning" (Kevin W., Meguniticook by the Sea Campground).
