Camping near Perry, Maine centers around the dramatic tides of Passamaquoddy Bay, where water levels can fluctuate up to 24 feet twice daily. The coastal terrain features dense forests extending to rocky shores, with summer temperatures averaging 75°F during the day and dropping to 55°F at night. Most campgrounds in this easternmost region of the United States operate from mid-May through mid-October.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Cobscook Bay State Park, the dramatic tidal changes create prime wildlife habitat. "It's quiet. well maintained. private. near water. Large sites... wildlife. hiking," notes Benjamin C. The park's unique ecosystem supports diverse marine life and birds.
Lighthouse exploration: From Lubec, West Quoddy Head Lighthouse is accessible year-round. "Nearby is Quoddy Head State Park which has a picturesque lighthouse and a couple of nice hiking trails," writes LibreRV. The lighthouse marks the easternmost point in the United States.
Kayaking with tidal awareness: Launching kayaks requires careful timing due to extreme tidal fluctuations. "Kayaking should be done with prior research to ensure familiarity with the tide changes (which are up to 20 ft) and currents, which are strong and dangerous in certain areas of Cobscook Bay," advises Heather C.
Cross-border adventures: Bring your passport to visit Campobello Island in Canada. "Bring your passport and cross over to Campobello Island which was the summer home of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt and is now a museum open for tours," suggests Nancy W.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: At Sunset Point RV Park, the oceanfront setting provides continuous entertainment. "After a busy morning of hiking or paddling we loved hanging out at our campsite in the afternoon and watching the seals, bald eagles, seabirds, and the tides come and go," shares Nancy W.
Night sky viewing: The region's minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. "Very quiet and an incredible place to star gaze. I hope to return someday," writes Dan R. about his experience at Cobscook Bay State Park.
Rustic glamping options: Cottonwood Camping & RV Park offers unconventional accommodations. "This campground is absolutely adorable. RV, tent, Treehouse camping to camping out in a Teepee! I surprised my husband with the Teepee... A huge Teepee with a very comfortable queen size bed- a couch, table, area animal rugs, coffee maker and a fan if needed," describes Cheryl R.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds feature well-spaced sites with natural barriers. "Cobscook State Park is beautiful. The park is big, and many sites are very far apart - we had almost complete privacy," notes Heather C.
What you should know
Extreme tidal fluctuations: Plan activities around the tides, which can drop over 20 feet. "Beware that the tidal range is around 20 feet so make sure you paddle around high tide or you will have to cross a mucky, seaweed covered, rocky clam flat to get back to shore," warns Nancy W. at Sunset Point RV Park.
Variable cell service: Connectivity varies widely throughout the region. "Wi-Fi at our site (#16) was pretty poor but worked very well near the office/laundry. We had a strong Verizon signal so we didn't rely on their Wi-Fi," reports Nancy W.
Seasonal business hours: Most local businesses operate on reduced hours outside peak season. "The town of Lubec is cute but the waterfront area provides a nice view of the rushing tide and Canada across the narrow channel," explains LibreRV.
Insect preparation: Seaview Campground visitors note mosquitoes can be intense in summer. "This is Northern Maine, and you should expect mosquitoes. We came armed with Deep Woods Off, and happy to have it," advises Joe R.
Tips for camping with families
Adirondack shelter options: Some sites at Cobscook Bay State Park offer three-sided shelters. "Some sites have Adirondack shelters. All sites have picnic tables and fire pits," mentions Heather C.
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "There are also a few open areas for picnicking or just relaxing, as well as a play area for kids," notes Heather C. about Cobscook Bay State Park.
Educational wildlife viewing: Keenes Lake Family Campground provides water-based learning opportunities. "The lake was clean and we swam, kayaked and crossed the lake on paddle boards," shares Pamela H. This family-friendly setting allows children to observe local ecosystems.
Plan for shorter hikes: With children, choose the easier trail options. "There are a few nice, relatively short and easy hiking trails that run through the park," according to Heather C.
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup options: Pleasant Lake Camping Area offers fifty-amp hookups alongside their yurt glamping close to Perry, Maine, but many campgrounds have limited or no hookups. "No hookups. Limited RV sites and very limited for over 20 feet," notes Pamela H. about Cobscook Bay State Park.
Site selection strategy: At Sunset Point RV Park, certain sites offer better views and spacing. "The best sites are 12, 12A, 12B, and 16 which have the best views and are the largest sites," recommends Nancy W.
Dump station availability: Plan your water usage accordingly. "Water, electric (30/50) no sewer but dump onsite with blue portable waist containers for campers to use," explains Jill W.
Wind considerations: Coastal locations experience strong winds that can damage equipment. "Warning: do not leave your awning out while you are away from your camper as the winds can really pick up in the afternoon and damage them," cautions Nancy W.
