The Mid-Coast Maine region near Spruce Head features a rugged shoreline with numerous tidal inlets and protected harbors, creating ideal conditions for camping and outdoor recreation. Campgrounds in the area typically operate from May through mid-October, with most sites closing before the first frost. RVers visiting campgrounds near Spruce Head face significant tidal fluctuations of 9-11 feet, which impacts water access and activities at waterfront sites.
What to do
Explore local islands: The Stonington area offers opportunities to visit surrounding islands via ferry service. "We loved taking the ferry to Vinalhaven Island for the day and picking up prepared food at the Market Basket and eating it along the Rockland Harbor waterfront watching the boats come and go," notes a camper from Shore Hills Campground & RV Park.
Hike nearby preserves: Multiple nature preserves surround the camping areas with well-maintained trails. "Nearby is the Ovens Mouth Preserve which has great hiking and nice water views and is just one of many nature preserves in the area which all are very nice, well-marked, well-maintained, and dog-friendly," according to a review from Shore Hills Campground.
Kayak when tides permit: Tidal waters create unique paddling opportunities but require planning. A visitor at Narrows Too Camping Resort cautions: "You will be left walking across muddy soft clam flats if you are not mindful of the 10-12 foot tides. There was a four-hour window to paddle because of the tides."
What campers like
Peaceful waterfront locations: Many campers value the relative quiet of sites away from busier tourist areas. "The location of this campground couldn't be better. It's just a short drive from Acadia National Park, Ellsworth, and numerous other hikes and coastal attractions, making it a perfect base for exploring the area," describes a visitor to Narrows Too Camping Resort.
Fresh seafood access: Local seafood options receive consistent praise from campers. "You have to stop at Bet's Fish Fry for the best fried fish and chips you have ever had. Bring a beer or two and enjoy eating your food on the picnic tables in the nearby park," recommends one reviewer from Shore Hills Campground.
Cedar outdoor showers: Several campgrounds offer unique shower facilities that campers appreciate. A reviewer at Meguniticook by the Sea Campground shares: "We love the showers!! I made use of the cedar showers for a long hot shower- awesome! Crystal clean bathrooms."
What you should know
Reservation policies vary: Some campgrounds have unusual payment systems. A camper staying at Greenlaw's RV Park & Campground noted: "There is no deposit for reservations and payment is online. Once your reservation is made reservations are on the honor system that you show up. No prepayment was required. An invoice is emailed to you with payment options the morning after you check in."
Cell coverage and internet limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "We did not get any over-the-air television channels and they did not have cable. Satellite reception was also a problem because of the trees," reports a camper from Camden Hills RV Resort.
Variable site quality: Site conditions can differ dramatically even within the same campground. "Not all campsites had full hookup and we were told that one of the dump stations worked, but as we were leaving, we realized it didn't," shares a recent visitor to Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Choose locations with activities: Campgrounds vary in their family-friendliness. "I love this campsite. They have sites right on the water, a gift shop, pool, laundry, game room, free showers and the times that I've been there they've had weekly events like ice cream socials and an Elvis impersonator," writes a family camper at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Consider campground demographics: Some rv parks Spruce Head Maine area cater to specific groups. A visitor to Narrows Too Camping Resort advises: "I would primarily recommend this campsite for retirees and couples without children. The park doesn't offer many kid-friendly amenities beyond the pool, so families with young children might find it lacking in entertainment options."
Watch for wildlife after dark: Night activities require awareness of local wildlife. "One note: be aware of skunks at night. They are everywhere in the campground," warns a visitor to Timberland Acres RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Manage water systems: Water quality issues affect some locations. "There is defined an issue with the water. When we turned in the tap the water ran brown," reports an RVer who stayed at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort for 7 nights.
Site selection for privacy: Campground layouts vary significantly in spacing and privacy. "Some of their 30-amp waterfront sites come with great views. They also have some sites tucked in the woods that are super wide with huge patios and lots of privacy between you and your neighbor," notes a reviewer about Shore Hills Campground.
Book sites away from roads: Traffic noise impacts some camping areas near busy roads. "The sites in the 100's and 200's are near Route 3 which is a very busy road. Traffic noise from Route 1 is not bad at night but it does start early in the morning," cautions a camper who stayed at Meguniticook by the Sea Campground.
