Camping options near St. George, Maine span inland lakes to coastal settings, with seasonal operation typically running May through mid-October. Most campgrounds in the area require reservations at least several weeks in advance during summer months. The region's proximity to both Penobscot Bay and freshwater lakes offers varied camping environments within 30-45 minutes of St. George.
What to Do
Kayaking from waterfront sites: At Lobster Buoy Campsites in South Thomaston, visitors can launch directly from the campground. "We booked a campsite here to do some kayaking. We fell in love with this place! No generators, no air conditioners allowed, it's kind of like being back at camp. Rustic but everything you need. Some campsites are right on the water and the kayaking from here is awesome," notes Annie G.
Hiking local trails: The area offers numerous hiking options, particularly at Camden Hills State Park. "One of the real pluses of this park were the miles and miles of hiking trails just outside our doorstep. Driving the tour road to the summit of Mt. Battie (elevation 800') is a must and the views are spectacular (especially for watching the sunrise)," according to Nancy W.
Downtown exploration: The small towns around St. George provide shopping and dining opportunities. "The town is charming and there is so much to do in the immediate area and the surrounding towns of Rockland, Rockport, Owls Head, Lincolnville, and Belfast... just to name a few," writes Nancy W. about staying near Camden. Similarly, Shore Hills Campground offers convenient access to Boothbay Harbor, which Celeste C. describes as "close to the Railroad Museum so you can hear the train whistles during the day."
What Campers Like
Cedar showers: Multiple campgrounds feature cedar-constructed shower facilities that receive high marks from visitors. At Megunticook by the Sea Campground, chelsea notes, "the bathrooms are clean and the cedar showers are awesome! we've been excited to come back here since we left." Similarly, Jetta P. comments, "Nice cedar showers. Comfy enough even in a van camper with few amenities."
Waterfront views: The coastal and lakefront settings are major draws. At Shore Hills Campground, rachel S. reports, "We had a site at the end that had wonderful views of the river and we could angle our camper so we had privacy. The river is tidal and so unless you want to wade threw mud there is not access beyond a couple hours around high tide."
Local lobster events: Some campgrounds host special seafood meals. At Megunticook Campground, Mona S. notes, "The owners host a Lobster bake on Saturdays and it was so good." These events provide authentic Maine dining experiences without leaving the campground.
Swimming access: Freshwater swimming options complement the coastal settings. Duck Puddle Campground features "Great beach for swimming, playground for playing," according to Andrew G., making it ideal for warm summer days.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the st george me camping area require advance booking, especially for premium sites. Heather C. notes about Camden Hills State Park, "Reservations can be made on-line but only about half of the sites are reservable leaving the other half for walk-ups. I would advise making reservations if you want to stay over a weekend or during the summer season as this park really fills up."
Price variations: Camping costs vary significantly by site type and location. Mike V. cautions about some private campgrounds: "Corporations are buying up the private campgrounds and charging ridiculous prices. The three around Campden, ME have 4 day minimums making the most basic RV site $225 to $260 per stay."
Tidal considerations: Coastal campgrounds experience significant tide changes affecting water access. At Shore Hills, rachel S. explains the river "is tidal and so unless you want to wade threw mud there is not access beyond a couple hours around high tide."
Road noise: Several campgrounds near main routes experience traffic noise. Kevin W. notes about Megunticook by the Sea: "The only downside to this campground is traffic noise from Route! Not bad at night but it does start early in the morning. I would still stay there again."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground options: When camping with children near St. George, ME, look for campgrounds with play areas. Jimmy M. notes about Camden Hills State Park, "Playground is a bit of a stretch," indicating minimal play equipment, while Andrew G. mentions Duck Puddle Campground has a "playground for playing" that children enjoy.
Summer activities: Several campgrounds organize family-friendly events during peak season. Pam A. reports about Sennebec Lake Campground: "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."
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas. Neal R. mentions Duck Puddle Campground has "Lake swimming with float" that children can enjoy, though supervision is necessary as "management came over and said, 'I heard you were pulling my float in'" when his wife was helping their 5-year-old climb onto it.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Not all campgrounds accommodate big rigs. Nancy W. advises about Camden Hills State Park: "Although the park accommodates larger RV's, there are a limited number of sites for those over 35 feet and the gravel roads are easy to navigate in a big rig."
Hookup availability: Electric, water and sewer connections vary widely. At Camden Hills State Park, "Approximately, half the sites have water and 30/50 amp electric and the others are no hookups," according to Heather C., who adds "There is a dump station and water spigots are scattered throughout the campground."
Satellite and TV reception: Heavily wooded sites may limit television options. Heather C. notes at Camden Hills State Park, "For television watchers, there is no cable and satellite can be difficult due to trees. There are nine sites (55-63) located in an open field that may be able to pick up satellite."
