Dispersed camping near Seal Harbor, Maine requires proper preparation and wilderness skills. The region features a mix of coastal and inland camping options spanning both mainland and island locations. Primitive campsites along the Machias River corridor offer alternatives to the island-based options, with most requiring visitors to pack in all essential supplies including drinking water.
What to do
Riverside fishing opportunities: Machias Rips Campsite provides access to productive fishing spots. According to camper John R., "I've caught smallmouth bass, chubs and trout in the river so far! (Black and silver Jerk baits work great)" The campsite serves as an excellent base for anglers.
Follow marked woodland trails: Several campsites feature trails leading to more remote areas. At Machias Rips Campsite, one visitor noted "There is a marked trail in the camp that leads deep into the woods, I followed it for about a mile before it got too thick for my interest. Could be the trail that connects to the large pools of water up the river."
Explore nearby coastal reserves: Rustic camping in this region positions visitors near protected coastal wilderness areas. One camper mentioned using Machias Rips Campsite as a strategic location: "We spent one night here in the lean-to on our way to the Cutler Coast. It was a great stopping point that set us up well for our early morning departure."
What campers like
Convenient river access: Most sites along the Machias River corridor feature direct water access. A camper at Machias River Camp off Route 9 commented, "Super quiet and remote. We just drove in, found a spot and enjoyed. The creek is so close to the sites!"
Reliable cell coverage at select locations: While many rustic sites lack connectivity, some offer surprisingly good service. As one visitor to Machias Rips noted, "We had 4 bars of LTE service (AT&T) which was nice."
Private, spaced-out campsites: The layout of many dispersed camping areas provides privacy between sites. Sarah C. observed at Machias Rips Campsite, "The sites are spaced out nicely and there's a fair amount of shade to be had."
What you should know
Access road conditions: Most dispersed camping areas have unpaved access roads with varying conditions. A camper at Machias Rips Campsite reported, "The dirt road leading to the camp can be easily missed if not paying attention! But is clearly marked with a blue sign at the head of the road. The road has a few pot holes but nothing my stock (Low to the ground) Dodge Caravan couldn't handle."
Variable landing conditions for island sites: Boat-in camping requires planning around tides. A visitor to Wheat Island warned, "This can be a tricky island to land on at high tide, so plan accordingly."
Bathroom facilities and traffic: Some dispersed sites have basic amenities that attract day visitors. As Jillian B. observed, "Seems to be a bathroom pit-stop for travelers on rt 9 due to having the maintained bathroom. So lots of traffic driving in, using the toilet and then driving right back out."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for space needs: Some sites accommodate larger groups better than others. At Wheat Island, one camper noted there are "2 sites– one very small one on the northeast side, the other perfect for larger groups on the southwest side."
Bug protection essentials: Insects remain problematic even outside peak summer months. One camper warned, "Be prepared for mosquitoes. We thought we were passed mosquito season in early September, but alas, they were pretty bad at sunset."
Shelter options for inclement weather: Some sites offer structures for additional protection. At Machias Rips Campsite, "There is a site with a wooden protection shelter for tent campers as well!" This provides valuable backup for unexpected weather conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site availability for different vehicle types: The Machias River area includes options for various camping setups. At Machias River Camp off Route 9, one visitor noted, "Super cool mixed use land with established campsites. 6 or 7 in total I think." Another camper at Machias Rips mentioned, "There are about 5 spots. Some are rough and not super flat, but it's pretty and the river is right there."
Limited walking trails for pets: Some sites have restrictions on suitable areas for dog walking. One RVer at Machias Rips mentioned, "Only real negative for me was nowhere to really walk my dogs, nothing even close to a trail nearby. Just the highway."
