Midcoast Maine offers pet friendly camping options with seasonal access typically running from May through October. Located along the rocky Penobscot Bay coastline, Sargentville sits at the edge of the Blue Hill Peninsula where water temperatures rarely exceed 60°F even in summer months. Campsites in this region often feature a mix of wooded inland locations and coastal spots where morning fog is common until mid-June.
What to do
Kayaking from waterfront sites: At Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA, campers can launch directly from their sites. "We could launch our kayaks directly from the site. The kayaking from the park is very good, with protected access into Mt. Desert Nartows," writes Heather C. The KOA provides two water access areas for launching even if you're not in a waterfront site.
Hiking near campgrounds: Camden Hills State Park Campground offers extensive trail access directly from the camping area. "One of the real pluses of this park were the miles and miles of hiking trails just outside our doorstep," notes Nancy W. The campground connects to Mount Megunticook and Mount Battie trails with difficulty levels from easy to advanced.
Beach access for dog swimming: The rocky shores at most campgrounds aren't ideal for swimming, but certain locations offer better water entry points. "The property includes direct beach access where dogs can cool off and even swim alongside owners to the floating platform," according to reviews. Many campers bring water shoes due to the rocky terrain at most water access points.
What campers like
Outdoor showers: Searsport Shores Ocean Campground receives consistent praise for its bathing facilities. "Very very great staff! Upon arrival we checked in, in the office/store. Then a staff member lead us to our site," says Andrew B. The campground features "both indoor and outdoor hot showers" that many campers specifically mention in their reviews.
Clean privy-style facilities: Despite the rustic nature of some campgrounds, bathroom cleanliness stands out in reviews. "The bathrooms are dated but clean. There is a designated dishwashing drain to keep animals away from the campsites," notes Dana S. Campers repeatedly mention the care taken with facilities despite high occupancy.
Island Explorer bus access: Some campgrounds provide convenient public transportation. "The camp hosts do a great job of keeping the campground clean and were always out and about cleaning sites, fire pits, and the bathrooms," writes Nancy W., adding that "the Island Explorer (free) shuttle... stops at the campground so you can hitch a ride downtown or to the park and not have to worry about parking."
What you should know
No-reservation policies at some locations: Bar Harbor Campground operates on a first-come basis with a unique site selection system. "When you arrive, you get a map, find an empty site, get set-up and then go back to the office to register," explains Nancy W. For better sites, campers recommend watching for people packing up: "if you see someone packing up put a personal item (chair, table cloth, etc.). Then head to the office and let them know what site you are moving to."
Site-specific issues: Reviews often highlight problematic individual sites. "I feel very cheated. Most of the H sites are close together and have little privacy but this one was just beyond anything I have ever seen," writes Amy G. about a particular site at a local campground. When making reservations, ask specific questions about site size, slope, and proximity to facilities.
Limited shower availability: Many campgrounds have restricted shower access. "Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water," reports Karla J.B. Pay showers are common, typically costing $0.25-$2.00 for 3-7 minutes, and some locations have limited hours.
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Families appreciate campgrounds with play areas. "There is a great playground and a nice pool with slide. Hiking trails connect to the back of the campground for access to Beech Mtn and Echo Lake beach," says Erin S. about Smuggler's Den Campground. Parents note that playgrounds provide entertainment while setting up camp.
Pet-specific activities: For those camping with dogs near Sargentville, Maine, certain locations excel at accommodating pets. "It was awesome! Lots of cool trails to explore within the campground and lots of privacy! Facilities were clean and it was very dog friendly," shares Molly G. Many campgrounds provide designated pet walking areas away from water access points.
Weather preparedness: The Maine coast experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "Weather was a bit cold when we were there (October 2018), but there was a space heater," notes Rachel K. about Bass Harbor Campground. Families should pack layers even in summer when overnight temperatures can drop into the 50s.
Tips from RVers
Electric/water site availability: RV campers highlight the variable hookup options. "Approximately, half the sites have water and 30/50 amp electric and the others are no hookups," explains a reviewer. Most campgrounds offer a mix of full hookup, partial hookup, and primitive sites at different price points.
Site leveling challenges: Many campers mention terrain issues affecting RV setup. "Sites and patios are gravel and level with a picnic table and fire pit," writes Nancy W., though others note that not all sites share this characteristic. RVers should bring leveling blocks as many sites have slight slopes for drainage.
Road navigation concerns: Larger RVs face access challenges at some campgrounds. "Roads in the park are paved but some corners can be a little tight for big-rigs, best to unhitch your tow car up front in case you have to back up," advises an experienced RVer. When making reservations with larger rigs, specifically ask about turn radius requirements and site accessibility.