The rugged coastline of Maine's Penobscot Bay creates a dramatic backdrop for glamping in Northport, Maine. Located on the western shore of the bay with an average elevation of 100-300 feet, this area experiences mild summers with average temperatures around 75°F during peak camping season. Heavy morning fog can develop quickly in coastal camping areas, particularly during July and August when warm air meets the cooler water temperatures of the bay.
What to do
Kayak the tidal shores: At Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, visitors can explore protected waters and observe local wildlife. "We went swimming at their beach and saw a seal!" reports Michael K., who discovered the campground by chance and immediately planned to return for a longer stay.
Hike Mount Battie: The summit trails at Camden Hills State Park Campground provide panoramic views of the bay. "The park sits on both sides of Rt. 1, and the bottom side is more of a day use area with a pavilion and walking trails and sits on the water," explains Heather C. "The top portion of the park, where all the campsites are, has direct access to Mount Megunticook, and Mount Battie, and offers easy to advanced hikes."
Lobster bakes: Many coastal campsites offer fresh lobster, especially in summer. "Highly highly recommend getting fresh lobster from the local lobster man that lives on the grounds, they even supply you with a pot to boil them!(ask for the recipe)," advises Andrew B. from Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, highlighting the authentic Maine culinary experience available right at camp.
What campers like
Unique shower experiences: Outdoor showers are surprisingly popular in the area's luxury glamping offerings. "The campground showers are located at the office with two enclosed outdoor showers and one indoor shower. Hubby used the outdoor shower and thought it was great," says Deborah W. about Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, which maintains exceptionally clean facilities.
Stargazing opportunities: The dark skies and coastal setting create ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts. "For stargazers, the short walk across the street to the beach will give you some unbelievable views of the milky way when the night is at peak darkness," recommends Kyle R. about Seawall Campground.
Lake access: Not all glamping near Northport is ocean-focused. "We love the proximity to the lake with easy access for kayaking and swimming," writes Pam A. about Sennebec Lake Campground, which offers a quieter alternative to oceanfront properties with newly added glamping tents near the beach.
What you should know
First-come, first-served policies: Some campgrounds don't take reservations, requiring early arrival. "No reservations taken so get there early to get his sites," advises Tammy H. about Bar Harbor Campground, where the system involves finding an empty site, setting up, and then registering at the office.
Site selection matters: Location within campgrounds can significantly impact your experience. "Our waterfront site 344 was terrific - gorgeous view, and one of the larger waterfront spots. We could launch our kayaks directly from the site," notes Heather C. about Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA, though she cautions that "the sites were so close together and it was very crowded."
Seasonal differences: Visiting during shoulder season changes the experience dramatically. "I was worried when I decided to come to this part of Maine in the fall without reservations. It's early October, and I learned that Maine State Parks are first come first serve at this point. I was pleasantly surprised to arrive and find plenty of vacant spots," shares Missy R. about Camden Hills State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Public transportation access: The Island Explorer bus system serves many campgrounds in the region. "The campground is on the Island Explorer bus route, which is a series of busses that take you to different areas of Acadia National Park and into the surrounding towns. Once you arrive at the campground, you wouldn't need to use your car again!" explains Brandy N. about Hadley's Point Campground.
Kids' entertainment: Look for campgrounds with recreational facilities for rainy days. "My daughter begs to camp here. As with any KOA they have lots of activities throughout the day for families, and a pool, but she loves the ice pop contest. if you find a painted rock and bring it to the office you get a free ice pop," shares Melissa N., highlighting simple activities that children enjoy.
Hidden swimming spots: Local knowledge can lead to better swimming than campground pools. "We really liked it here. it has a pool, which my daughter loved but I much preferred going down the road to the lake to swim," advises Melissa N. about Bass Harbor Campground, which offers access to both pool swimming and natural water bodies nearby.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electrical service varies widely between campgrounds. "About half the sites have water and 30/50 amp electric and the others are no hookups. The campgrounds website has a very helpful map showing which sites are reservable and what they offer," explains Nancy W. about Camden Hills State Park Campground.
Off-season updates: Facilities undergo maintenance in shoulder seasons. "I'm here in 2025 and they are doing work on their water system so none of their water is potable," reports Missy R., highlighting the importance of checking current conditions before arrival.
Site leveling requirements: RVers should note terrain variations. "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," reports Jason G. about Sennebec Lake Campground, which has undergone recent renovations under new ownership.
