Camping spots near Sargentville, Maine center around Penobscot Bay and the eastern side of Blue Hill Peninsula, where the maritime climate creates 25°F cooler temperatures than inland areas during summer months. Campgrounds in this region typically open from mid-May through mid-October, with most facilities closing before the first frost in late September. Several sites require advance reservations 3-4 months ahead during peak July-August season.
What to do
Kayaking along Somes Sound: Mount Desert Campground offers rental kayaks launched directly from their floating docks. "We rented double kayaks from the front office for 2 hours and kayaked Somes Sound - it was beautiful water & amazing exploring! A bit more difficult with the ocean currents vs lake kayaking, so keep that in mind with kids," reports a visitor at Mount Desert Campground.
Beach combing at low tide: The shoreline near Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls transforms during low tide. "You can launch our kayaks directly from the site. The kayaking from the park is very good, with protected access into Mt. Desert Narrows," notes one camper. Another visitor mentions that "We went swimming at their beach and saw a seal!"
Hiking trails directly from camp: Smuggler's Den Campground connects to several Acadia trails. "Hiking trails connect to the back of the campground for access to Beech Mtn and Echo Lake beach," explains a reviewer. Another camper adds, "You can pick up trails right from the campground and walk to a great beach in Acadia National Park."
What campers like
Ocean access for swimming: Oceanfront camping experiences rank highly with visitors to the region. "Campground was quiet with spaced out sites and had a really nice outdoor shower! Really great views of the ocean and Deer Isle. Stayed at site 8 which had unobstructed views of ocean and close to path to beach," writes a guest at Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls.
Stargazing opportunities: Seawall Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing. "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," shares a visitor. Another notes, "Walk down to the beach just outside seawall on a clear night for some of the best stargazing you'll ever see."
Fresh local food options: Some campgrounds feature local Maine products. "Fresh ground local coffee every morning and local Giffords ice cream at night at their 'Gathering Place'," reports a camper at Mount Desert Campground. Another visitor mentions ordering "fresh lobster from the local lobster man that lives on the grounds, they even supply you with a pot to boil them!"
What you should know
Shower arrangements vary significantly: Many campgrounds charge for showers or have limited facilities. "Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water," reports a camper at Seawall Campground. Another visitor explains, "The showers are coin operated for warm water. Bring quarters! You can definitely shower completely with one session of about 5 minutes."
Island Explorer shuttle access: Many campgrounds connect to this free transportation. "The Island Explorer bus for Acadia National Park stops at the campground, so you have easy access without driving, if desired," explains a visitor to Hadley's Point. Another camper adds, "We took advantage of the island shuttle which picked us up right at the campground."
Limited phone service: Cell coverage can be spotty throughout the region. "We didn't have reliable cell service," mentions a camper. Another notes, "Wear life vests!" when kayaking as emergency communication isn't always possible. Some campgrounds offer Wi-Fi near their offices as an alternative.
Tips for camping with families
Crabbing activities: Kids enjoy fishing for crabs from campground docks. "We purchased a crab bucket with net from the coffee shop one morning for around $10-12. It was well worth it as my kids crab gigged for HOURS off the docks every day!" shares a visitor at Bass Harbor Campground. The rocky shoreline provides ideal habitat for small sea creatures.
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Some places allow kids plenty of freedom. "Kids ride their bikes everywhere. I'd say kids get to be just the right amount of feral here. It's a safe, quiet and fun park," notes a camper. Another mentions, "Very family friendly camp, with lots of activities for kids."
Playground availability: For rainy days or between adventures, playgrounds can be crucial. "Great for all types of camping. There is a great playground and a nice pool with slide," writes a visitor to Smuggler's Den. Another adds, "The only saving grace where my son was concerned was a large sand box."
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many campgrounds in the region have limitations on RV length. "Campers over 20 feet are not allowed. The sites are large however the terrain is difficult to navigate," notes a reviewer at Camden Hills State Park Campground. Another RVer adds, "There is NO dump station located at the campground however a few miles down the road, there is a campground that allows you to use theirs for a $20.00 fee."
Premium site selection: Waterfront sites often book years in advance. "You can reserve a type of site, and then for an additional fee can reserve a specific site, if desired," explains a camper at Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA. Another visitor shares, "Some RV sites are full hookup, some only electric and water, but there is a dump station onsite."
Privacy variations: Site layouts affect the camping experience. "Sites are mostly private and have space," notes a visitor. While another RVer warns, "Very small sites very close to each other. Absolutely no seclusion or privacy whatsoever. As this is generally my #1 feature in a campground, it was disappointing."
