Tent camping near Southwest Harbor, Maine offers a mix of boat-access islands and walk-in inland options across the Deer Isle Archipelago. The region receives about 60 inches of annual rainfall, with summer temperatures typically ranging 65-85°F during camping season. Most remote island sites require pack-in, pack-out practices and have strict regulations about waste management due to the sensitive coastal environment.
What to do
Island hopping by sea kayak: Explore the Deer Isle Archipelago by paddling between islands like Saddleback Island and Nathan Island. A camper noted, "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."
Hiking on Isle au Haut: Access the remote section of Acadia National Park from Duck Harbor Campground, which has several miles of moderate trails. One camper mentioned, "It is a great place to just get away. There are several miles of moderate hikes."
Blueberry picking: During late July and August, several camping areas offer access to wild blueberry fields. At Continuous Harmony Farm, you can "pick your own blueberries alongside their raking crew in their organic wild blueberry barrens."
What campers like
Remote island privacy: Tent campers appreciate the secluded nature of island sites, particularly smaller ones. About Shivers Island, a reviewer said, "This island is perfect for just 2 people, known locally as Honeymoon Island."
Swim-in access at inland sites: At Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land, campers enjoy water access. "We boated to the boat with our gear and camped there. This lake is huge so keep that in mind... We were able to swim here as well. We went fishing and did catch a couple of fish!"
Farm-based camping experiences: Several private farms offer unique camping options. One camper noted about Continuous Harmony Farm: "The space is gorgeous, right next to a pond... we were joined by two other groups who camped close by."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Fog can create dangerous conditions for kayakers accessing island campsites. Always bring navigation equipment and file float plans. "The fog can roll in at any minute so come prepared with a chart, compass, bearings between islands/markers and a marine radio."
Tide considerations: Vertical tidal changes of 9-14 feet affect landing and launching from island sites. "Landing at high tide is nearly impossible on Shivers (and many other islands)."
Early morning noise: Expect early wake-up calls from working boats. "You may get awakened by the sound of lobster boats motors, as they start their day pretty darn early; bring ear plugs if you are light sleeper."
Waste management requirements: Island campsites require pack-out systems. "You are required to use Wag Bags instead of digging a cat hole to dispose of human waste."
Tips for camping with families
Choose walk-in sites for easier access: Family campers often prefer sites with shorter carrying distances. At Donnell Pond, "The hike in is only about 1/2 mile so it's totally doable even if you need to make two trips."
Consider farm stays for family-friendly amenities: Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss offers family camping with additional features: "The owner had a picnic table set up with flower boxes in it, and there was a nice fire ring. They will sell you wood if you need it."
Plan backup sites during peak season: First-come, first-served policies mean having alternatives is essential. "Since all of the islands are first-come, first-served, have a back-up plan for camping on another island."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options near islands: For the best tent camping near Southwest Harbor, Maine, RV options are limited. Four Acre Woods Campground accepts RVs but sites are compact: "All the things you need are there - firewood, water, bathrooms and showers, and even electricity at the site. Only thing is the sites are small and close together."
Dry camping on private land: Some private landowners allow RV camping without hookups. At Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss, "The land was open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv... It is dry camping, with no hookups, and generators are not allowed."
Proximity to services: Most remote tent camping locations require supply runs to nearby towns. "The nearby village of Stonington has everything you may need for your island camping adventure."
