Best Tent Camping near Seal Cove, ME
The Seal Cove area offers a variety of tent camping experiences along Maine's coastal landscape, with several islands accessible only by boat providing secluded backcountry tent sites. Saddleback Island and Nathan Island stand out as prime destinations for tent campers seeking primitive camping through the Maine Island Trail Association (MITA), which maintains over 200 islands for sea kayak camping. Duck Harbor Campground, part of Acadia National Park on Isle au Haut, provides one of the most sought-after tent camping experiences in the region, though reservations must be secured months in advance through the National Park Service.
Most tent sites on the islands require specific preparation as they offer minimal amenities. Campers must pack in all supplies and use Wag Bags for human waste disposal rather than digging cat holes. According to one visitor, "The camping spot is simple and similar to most backcountry sites: a flat space to pitch your small tent, no toilet, no drinking water, no picnic table, and no reservations possible." Tent sites typically feature flat spaces on natural terrain, sometimes with fire rings, though fires are prohibited on many islands including Saddleback and Shivers. Significant tidal changes of 9-14 vertical feet can make landing at high tide difficult or impossible on many islands.
Areas farther from the mainland provide deeper seclusion but require careful planning. A recent review noted that "the fog can roll in at any minute so come prepared with a chart, compass, bearings between islands/markers and a marine radio." For mainland options, Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land offers walk-in tent sites about a half-mile from parking with more traditional amenities. Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss provides tent campsites with picnic tables and fire rings on private land with views of rolling blueberry fields. Both mainland and island camping in the region require first-come, first-served strategies, with no advance reservations possible for many sites, making backup plans essential for backcountry tent camping adventures.