Best Dispersed Camping near Owls Head, ME
Dispersed camping near Owls Head, Maine focuses on several small islands in the Deer Isle Archipelago accessible only by boat. These islands are managed by the Maine Island Trail Association (MITA) and include Wheat Island, Buckle Island, Doliver Island, and Marshall Island. All locations offer primitive, boat-in camping opportunities with no facilities or services. The islands are part of a network of water trail camping destinations in the Gulf of Maine, providing remote overnight options for sea kayakers and small boat users.
Access to these dispersed camping islands requires watercraft and planning around tides and weather conditions. Some islands like Wheat Island and Doliver Island can be difficult to land on during high tide. Camping is completely free for MITA members and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. None of the islands provide fresh water sources, toilets, or other amenities. Campers must pack in all necessary supplies including drinking water and waste disposal bags. Fire regulations vary by island, with fires prohibited on Doliver Island but permitted on the others.
The camping experience on these islands features scenic coastal views and excellent stargazing opportunities. Each island has limited designated sites - typically one or two small areas suitable for camping. Marshall Island stands out with tent platforms and picnic tables at its Sand Cove location. The islands vary in size and terrain, with Buckle Island featuring a sandy shore that makes it particularly suitable for beginner sea kayakers. Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially at sunset, even in early fall. "We thought we were passed mosquito season in early September, but alas, they were pretty bad at sunset," according to one visitor about Wheat Island. Another camper noted that Marshall Island provides "some of the best stargazing spots we've ever seen."
