Dispersed camping near Southwest Harbor, Maine requires maritime navigation skills, as most sites are water-accessible on islands managed by the Maine Island Trail Association. The Deer Isle Archipelago features multiple camping opportunities for boaters with varying terrain from sandy shores to wooded sites. Tide patterns significantly impact landing capabilities, particularly during September when water levels can fluctuate by 10-12 feet.
What to do
Stargazing on island campsites: Marshall Island offers exceptional night sky viewing opportunities from Sand Cove beach. As one camper noted, "Sand Cove is perfect for a beach fire and stargazing on a clear night– some of the best stargazing spots we've ever seen!"
Explore Acadia National Park sections: Wheat Island provides an excellent base for accessing the remote Isle au Haut section of Acadia. "Perfect island for exploring the close-by Isle au Haut, a remote section of Acadia National Park, but very hard to get reservations at Duck Harbor Campground," reports one visitor.
Fishing in freshwater systems: The mainland Machias River area offers productive fishing opportunities. A regular visitor mentions, "Great spot to fish and swim! I've caught smallmouth bass, chubs and trout in the river so far! Black and silver Jerk baits work great."
What campers like
Easy landing areas for beginners: Buckle Island features accessible shores ideal for those new to water-based camping. According to one review, "This is a perfect island for those new to sea kayak camping as the sandy shore, which is exposed for a good portion of the day, is easy to land on and a short site walk to a trail into the woods."
Clean facilities at mainland sites: Machias Rips Campsite maintains quality facilities despite its remote setting. A camper observed, "Beautiful place. Clean sites. Easy to find and right off rt 9. Seems to be a bathroom pit-stop for travelers on rt 9 due to having the maintained bathroom."
Shell collecting opportunities: Some islands feature unique beach compositions. Doliver Island offers "Gorgeous shell covered beach and a beautiful view of Isle au Haut, just next door," making it worthwhile despite limited camping space.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most island sites have no connectivity, while mainland options vary by carrier. At Machias Rips Campsite, "Most Cell phone carriers won't have service back at the camp, I myself had to drive 20 Minutes up the road for signal. A cell signal booster may work here. Radio signal is fine though."
Water supply requirements: No fresh water exists on any island sites, requiring complete self-sufficiency. Visitors must carry all drinking water or plan for resupply. One camper suggests, "If you happen to need a food or water resupply, Swan's Island is a short paddle away and has a very small grocery store and town office with fresh water."
Insect conditions by location: Bug populations vary significantly between islands. While many sites experience heavy mosquito activity, Marshall Island appears to be an exception, with one camper reporting, "Despite the fact that the other islands had pesky mosquitoes, this site had none."
Tips for camping with families
Space considerations: Some sites accommodate groups better than others. Wheat Island offers "2 sites– one very small one on the northeast side, the other perfect for larger groups on the southwest side," providing options based on family size.
Bathroom preparations: Prepare children for primitive bathroom conditions. Most island sites require waste bags. As one visitor advises, "Come prepared with fresh water and wag bags (no toilets)."
Access road awareness: When visiting mainland sites with children, note that entrance roads can be challenging to spot. For Machias Rips, "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."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV spaces available: Machias Rips Campsite offers only two RV-compatible sites amid its camping options. A reviewer notes, "At this particular location, there are 2 RV sites, 3 tent sites and a lean-to shelter, all situated right on the bank of the river."
Road condition considerations: Access roads to dispersed sites may present challenges for larger vehicles. One camper reports, "The road has a few pot holes but nothing my stock (Low to the ground) Dodge Caravan couldn't handle," suggesting careful navigation for larger RVs.
No hookup preparation: All dispersed camping near Southwest Harbor requires self-contained systems. RV campers should arrive with full water tanks, charged batteries, and empty waste tanks as no electrical, water, or sewer connections exist at any sites.
