Best Dispersed Camping near Salsbury Cove, ME
Salsbury Cove, Maine serves as a gateway to distinctive coastal camping experiences, with a notable concentration of island-based sites accessible primarily by boat. The Maine Island Trail Association (MITA) manages several highly-rated camping areas in the nearby Deer Isle Archipelago, including Marshall Island, Buckle Island, Wheat Island, and Doliver Island. These dispersed camping locations offer free primitive sites for MITA members on a first-come, first-served basis. Inland from the coast, additional options include the Machias Rips Campsite near Wesley, which provides drive-in access to riverfront camping with both tent and RV sites, plus a lean-to shelter.
Water access significantly shapes camping logistics in this coastal region. Island campsites require careful planning around tides, as noted by experienced campers: "This can be a tricky island to land on at high tide, so plan accordingly." Most island sites lack fresh water sources, toilets, or other amenities, requiring visitors to pack in all supplies including drinking water and waste disposal bags. Seasonal considerations include persistent mosquitoes, which campers report can be problematic even into September. Cell service varies dramatically across the region, with some areas offering strong coverage while others require "driving 20 minutes up the road for signal," according to one Machias Rips visitor.
The coastal camping experience receives consistently positive reviews for its natural setting and stargazing opportunities. Marshall Island campers describe "some of the best stargazing spots we've ever seen" at Sand Cove, which features tent platforms and picnic tables. Buckle Island is recommended for those new to sea kayak camping due to its "sandy shore, which is exposed for a good portion of the day, easy to land on and a short walk to a trail into the woods." Mainland sites like Machias Rips offer different advantages, including pit toilets and riverside locations where visitors can "fall asleep to the sounds of the Machias River." Wildlife viewing, fishing, and swimming opportunities enhance the experience, with one camper reporting success catching "smallmouth bass, chubs and trout in the river."