Glamping near Searsport, Maine offers coastal camping experiences with views of Penobscot Bay at elevations ranging from sea level to 800 feet. The mid-coast Maine region experiences average summer temperatures between 65-75°F, with cooler evenings requiring extra layers. Most upscale camping options operate seasonally from mid-May through mid-October, when coastal Maine's weather provides optimal conditions for outdoor activities.
What to do
Kayaking at Sennebec Lake Campground: Launch directly from waterfront sites or dedicated water access areas. The campground provides kayak rentals and easy access to protected waters. A camper noted, "We love the proximity to the lake with easy access for kayaking and swimming. New ownership this year resulted in some updates, as well as the addition of glamping tents near the beach."
Hiking at Camden Hills State Park Campground: Explore multiple trail systems directly from your campsite ranging from easy to advanced difficulty. "What we really liked was the great hikes close by with amazing views," mentions one visitor. The park offers direct access to Mount Megunticook and Mount Battie with elevation gains providing panoramic coastal views.
Lobster dinners at Oceanfront Camping: Many campgrounds offer weekly lobster bakes with locally caught seafood. "Ask for the recipe for the fresh lobster from the local lobster man that lives on the grounds, they even supply you with a pot to boil them!" shares an enthusiastic camper at Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls.
What campers like
Outdoor showers with ocean views: Several glamping locations feature premium outdoor shower facilities with hot water and privacy. At Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, campers specifically mention "a great outdoor shower" as a highlight of their stay, with one reviewer noting it as part of the "great layout and design with water access and nice view."
Community activities: Many sites organize structured social events that bring glampers together. One visitor to Sennebec Lake Campground shared, "Activities started up again this year, with events such as kids' crafts, a kids vs adults water gun fight, cornhole competition, and a DJ for an evening of dancing - just on the weekend we were there."
Wildlife viewing: Glamping locations provide prime opportunities to observe Maine's coastal wildlife. "During sunset, we could watch the seals, birds, and had easy access for kayaking" from an oceanfront site at Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA, according to one visitor who documented their wildlife observations.
What you should know
First-come basis at some locations: Not all glamping sites accept reservations. "The Bar Harbor Campground delivered what it promised... A little bit unusual in that you can't make a reservation. We were able to drop in and get a nice RV site," explains one visitor to Bar Harbor Campground. Some sites operate on cash or check only payment systems.
Privacy varies significantly: Site spacing differs dramatically between locations. "The sites are a bit close, but the neighbors I had during my stay would be out and about during the day if I didn't happen to be out and about in Acadia NP or Bar Harbor myself... so that kind of made up for it," noted a visitor to Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA.
Seasonal operations: Most glamping facilities open mid-May through October. "It's early October, and I learned that Maine State Parks are first come first serve at this point. I was pleasantly surprised to arrive and find plenty of vacant spots," shared a Camden Hills State Park visitor, highlighting how availability improves in shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Free shuttle access to attractions: Many glamping sites near Searsport offer shuttle connections to major destinations. At Hadley's Point Campground, "The campground is on the Island Explorer bus route, which is a series of busses that take you to different areas of Acadia National Park and into the surrounding towns. Once you arrive at the campground, you wouldn't need to use your car again!"
Children's amenities: Several locations offer dedicated play areas for different age groups. "There is a large pool, inexpensive laundry, blueberry fields free to pick July to August," noted a Bar Harbor Campground visitor, emphasizing amenities beyond standard playground equipment that keep children engaged.
Water activities with kids: Many glamping sites offer protected swimming areas suitable for various ages. "My family has been here twice now and we thoroughly enjoy ourselves!" shared a visitor to Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, where the calm beach area provides safer swimming conditions than the open ocean.
Tips from RVers
Tight turns in some parks: Larger rigs may face challenges navigating certain glamping locations. At Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA, "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." Glampers with larger setups should call ahead to confirm access.
Water system limitations: Some parks have seasonal water restrictions. "I'm here in 2025 and they are doing work on their water system so none of their water is potable," noted a Camden Hills State Park visitor, highlighting the importance of bringing your own water supply during system maintenance periods.
Electrical options vary: Not all glamping sites offer the same power connections. Some locations like Patten Pond Camping Resort provide modern amenities including 50-amp service, while others may offer only basic 30-amp or 15-amp electrical connections, requiring proper adapters for compatibility.
