Campers exploring the mid-coast of Maine will find diverse glamping options close to Stockton Springs, Maine. Located at the head of Penobscot Bay where the Penobscot River meets the Atlantic, this region experiences mild summer temperatures averaging 75°F during peak camping season from June through September. Winter camping isn't recommended as temperatures frequently drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Beach exploration: 10 minutes from Searsport Shores Ocean Campground where you can hunt for sea glass, unusual shells, and observe marine life. According to one visitor, "At low tide you can do fun rock designs on the shore, they offer lobster bake at the ocean for $60 pop with some sides. The community firepit is nice."
Mountain hikes: 45 minutes to Camden Hills State Park Campground with 30 miles of trails ranging from easy to challenging. A camper notes, "One of the real pluses of this park were the miles and miles of hiking trails just outside our doorstep. Driving the tour road to the summit of Mt. Battie (elevation 800') is a must and the views are spectacular."
Kayaking: Launch directly from your campsite at Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls with protected water access. "We went swimming at their beach and saw a seal! The views were breathtaking of the ocean and Deer Isle," reports one camper. Rental kayaks are available at several nearby outfitters for $45-65 per day.
What campers like
Artistic activities: Searsport Shores Ocean Campground offers regular workshops and creative spaces. "This place is so much more than a beautiful campground nestled among gorgeous old growth trees located right on the shore. It's also a treasure trove of arts of all kinds - fiber arts, metal sculptures, carvings, paintings, and music," explains one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Bald eagles, harbor seals, and loons are regularly spotted from waterfront sites. A camper at Somes Sound View Campground shared, "We had loons come in close to our site. Saw an Eagle too. We sat our chairs in the water and cooled down everyday and floated on our noodles. Great relaxing place."
Free transportation: The Island Explorer shuttle connects many glamping spots near Acadia. "The shuttle bus takes 50 minutes to get to Bar Harbor, by car it's closer to 30. There was really nothing to do at the campground except camp - no hikes or trails directly there," explains a Seawall Campground visitor, highlighting the importance of this service for accessing attractions.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping sites near Stockton Springs operate from mid-May through mid-October, with limited winter options. At HTR Acadia, "The entire staff during my 6 nights was very friendly. I stayed at two different sites during my stay due to my first one being reserved after my fourth night. Both sites were very nice."
Site selection matters: Request specific sites when booking luxury glamping tents. "Not all sites are created equal. I feel very cheated. Most of the H sites are close together and have little privacy but this one was just beyond anything I have ever seen," notes one camper about a particularly disappointing site.
Water access varies: While many sites advertise "oceanfront" locations, actual water access differs significantly. "The campground also boasts a waterfront site for general use, but frankly it is not very nice--basically about 100 yards of gravel road, fronted by a man-made bunch of seaweed-covered rocks."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Bar Harbor Campground offers extensive recreation options. "There is a pool, a laundromat, a game room, and a main office. Nearby are restaurants and mini-golf," notes one visitor, making it ideal for families needing entertainment options.
Bathroom proximity: Choose sites close to facilities when glamping with young children. "Bathrooms are far, and only 3 showers, one was down. But they were clean," reports a Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA visitor, highlighting an important consideration for families.
Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds offer ranger-led programs specifically for children. "My daughter begs to camp here. As with any KOA they have lots of activities throughout the day for families, and a pool, but she loves the ice pop contest. If you find a painted rock and bring it to the office you get a free ice pop."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many glamping spots near Stockton Springs have uneven terrain. "We incurred damage to our vehicle relying on the eyes/directions of an employee. The sites are very close together, some are shaded, some not," notes a visitor to Hadley's Point Campground.
Reservation systems vary: Several campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis even during peak season. "The Bar Harbor Campground does not take reservations so you can pick whatever open site you want and if you want to extend your stay, you can. When you arrive, you get a map, find an empty site, get set-up and then go back to the office to register."
Utility connections: Check hookup locations when selecting sites. "Our sewer dump was 3 ft or less from the neighbors fire pit, spotty WiFi, tv antenna only grabbed 4 public access channels. Good water pressure," reports an RV camper, highlighting the importance of checking utility placement.
