Best Campgrounds near Stonington, ME

The Stonington, Maine area provides camping options ranging from established campgrounds to remote island sites. Greenlaw's RV Park & Campground offers tent and RV sites with full hookups in Stonington proper, while Shivers Island at Settlement Quarry Preserve provides primitive boat-in camping for more adventurous visitors. The region's coastal geography creates unique opportunities for island camping along the Maine Island Trail, a 200-island network accessible primarily by sea kayak. Several campgrounds within an hour's drive include Seawall and Blackwoods in Acadia National Park, offering a mix of tent, RV, and in some cases, cabin accommodations with varying levels of amenities.

Road conditions and seasonal availability significantly impact camping in the Stonington region. Most campgrounds operate from May through October, closing during harsh winter months. As one visitor noted, "This is a wonderful campground with sites with lots of privacy. We stayed for a month and were very happy with our stay." Island camping requires additional planning for tides, which can vary 9-14 vertical feet, potentially making landings impossible at high tide. Cell service varies throughout the area, with stronger reception in established campgrounds and limited to no service on remote islands. Visitors planning to camp on islands should prepare for self-sufficient stays, including carrying in all supplies and water, and using wag bags for human waste as required by land management agencies.

Campers consistently highlight the natural beauty and tranquility of the Stonington area as primary attractions. The working harbor, coastal views, and access to kayaking opportunities receive particular praise in reviews. A visitor to Shivers Island described it as having "a deep, rocky shore, it's the perfect place to make dinner, watch the sunrise or set, and star gaze with no city lights or trees to obstruct your view." Many campgrounds in the region offer water views or direct water access, though these premium sites typically fill quickly during peak season. The proximity to Isle au Haut (part of Acadia National Park) provides additional recreational opportunities for campers based in Stonington, with ferry service available from the harbor. Visitors seeking quieter alternatives to the more crowded Mount Desert Island section of Acadia often prefer camping in this area.

Best Camping Sites Near Stonington, Maine (114)

    1. Seawall Campground — Acadia National Park

    53 Reviews
    Bass Harbor, ME
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 244-3600

    $22 - $60 / night

    "This campground is quiet, walking distance to the ocean. Family oriented. There are however, no showers. Most of the walk in campsites are only steps away from the parking lot."

    "We stayed at the tent walk in sites (D25) The sites are close together but otherwise, well maintained."

    2. Blackwoods Campground — Acadia National Park

    97 Reviews
    Seal Harbor, ME
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 288-3274

    $30 - $60 / night

    "Close proximity to Bar Harbor and a lot of the main attractions of the national park. Showers are just outside of the entrance to the campground, coin operated."

    "quiet, wooded, relatively secluded. good spot at 111 where we stayed. nice places for tents. private showers outside main camping area were a positive since none in camping area itself."

    3. Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls

    11 Reviews
    Sedgwick, ME
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 359-5555

    $29 - $39 / night

    "Beautiful, quiet location with views of the deer isle bridge and access to walking the beach. Owners are so nice and friendly and accommodating. Sites are mostly private and have space. Very clean."

    "Site number 4 was great it was tucked away a bit yet still had a nearby bathroom and a 3 minute walk to the seashore which was beautiful!"

    4. Camden Hills State Park Campground

    31 Reviews
    Camden, ME
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 236-2498

    $25 - $45 / night

    "Camden Hills SP is a no contest campground if you are visiting Camden and surrounding MidCoast areas. 9 out of 10 times I visit Camden (one of my favorite places in Maine), I stay at this campground."

    " As with all real estate, location, location ! The camp is well situated amongst many Maine towns all of which are worth a visit to."

    5. Greenlaw's RV Park & Campground

    6 Reviews
    Stonington, ME
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (207) 200-1279

    "My boyfriend and I drove all around looking for a camping place in the Bar Harbor area but nothing was open because it was the end of April."

    "Located near Stonington, it is near the harbor, restaurants, a sand beach and the ferry to Isle au Haut. Opportunities for Kayaking, SUP’s and hiking abound here on a quiet island."

    6. Mount Desert Campground

    37 Reviews
    Mount Desert, ME
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 244-3710

    "Desert, Maine which is right next to the fabulous town of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Forest."

    "Our site was right next to a potable water spigot, and within easy walking distance to a bathroom building which includes full plumbing and metered showers (4 quarters for 5 minutes)."

    7. Bass Harbor Campground

    19 Reviews
    Bass Harbor, ME
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 327-5857

    "Tent campers have a much prettier space than RV, as with most campgrounds, and they have a lot across the main road which is perfect for tent camping. if you have multiple sites for large gatherings you"

    "There are homes close by, but they are fenced off and really are out of sight, so it's not really an issue. The Bass Harbor Lighthhouse is literally 500 feet away."

    8. Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA

    37 Reviews
    Salsbury Cove, ME
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 288-3520

    "This campground has beautiful tent sites along the waters edge."

    "It 11 miles to Bar Harbor town proper and only 8.7 miles to the Hulls Cove Acadia National Park visitors center and the entrance to the Cadillac Mountain Summit Road."

    9. Smuggler's Den Campground

    21 Reviews
    Southwest Harbor, ME
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 244-9033

    "Multiple sights with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. This campground has every possible kind of sight, RV, pop-up, tent, Cabin, Rustic Cabin, and tents on platforms."

    "It has all the things is usually stay away from because I like a little bit more primitive accomadations- less family style."

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Recent Reviews near Stonington, ME

709 Reviews of 114 Stonington Campgrounds


  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Megunticook Campground

    Watch out for their prices

    Online the prices was 40$ for a tent site. We didn’t need water or electric just a spot to sleep for the night. I called to reserve cause the website wasn’t very easy to work with and the man on the phone said 76$ but couldn’t explain costs and was rude with the “you’ll not find another spot for this cheap!” Which we did. For less than half that cost. So watch out on prices and the extra charges.

  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Blackwoods Campground — Acadia National Park

    So lucky!

    We tried staying here in the summer a few years back and it filled up weeks ahead of time. We got lucky this trip and got one spot open same day. Got here super late and was surrounded by other campers but the trees all around gave us privacy and everyone was super quiet so no disruptive folks like so many campgrounds. The bathrooms don’t have showers of course but they are so clean it was a great thing from other sites pit toilets. If you’re in Acadia this is the spot!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Forest Ridge Campground

    Clean, quiet and affordable

    Stayed here while visiting friends and Acadia NP. Facilities very clean every time I saw them. Showers were nice but you need to wait for the hot water. Run it all hot and it will get there in a little while. Wood available on site. Open spaces in the middle with no trees or shrubs. Campers can be very close. Sides have more wooded sites. Not too many seasonal looking sites. 1 issue: our clean out was a bit high so had to lift sewer hose to clear it out. Didn’t use pool , laundry area worked good , screen porch at facility building. Fire ring worked out well, kept lots of heat in. We were off-season mid September. Reservation system forced us into our site, wants to charge a site selection fee.

  • B
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Blackwoods Campground — Acadia National Park

    Great campground

    quiet, wooded, relatively secluded. good spot at 111 where we stayed. nice places for tents. private showers outside main camping area were a positive since none in camping area itself.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA

    Nice location, actually on the ocean

    A bit pricey, but it is a nice location and the free island bus stops right at the KOA

  • Jenna L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Blackwoods Campground — Acadia National Park

    Beautiful campground and a beautiful park!

    A good campground in a absolutely wonderful park. There's a lot of trees around so even though the campsites are close together they feel very private. Good amount of bathrooms, trash cans, and water spickets

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Smuggler's Den Campground

    Great place

    We stayed here one night in mid September without a reservation. Helpful staff, clean and tidy campground. There is a new bathhouse by the tents which I used - very nice! I would come again!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2025

    Schoodic Woods Campground — Acadia National Park

    Lovely

    We got a last minute site here in mid September. Lovely campground, new bathrooms with dishwashing sink. Quiet and peaceful. Plenty of space and privacy between sites


Guide to Stonington

Camping near Stonington, Maine offers coastal exploration opportunities from both established sites and remote islands. The region sits at the southern tip of Deer Isle, with an average elevation of just 30 feet above sea level, creating dramatic tidal shifts that campers must monitor when planning water activities. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-75°F, with mornings often shrouded in dense coastal fog that can persist until midday.

What to do

Kayak to remote islands: Access the Maine Island Trail from Shivers Island — Settlement Quarry Preserve, where experienced paddlers can explore the Deer Isle Archipelago. "With a deep, rocky shore, it's the perfect place to make dinner, watch the sunrise or set, and star gaze with no city lights or trees to obstruct your view," notes Shari G., who recommends preparing for significant tides that make "landing at high tide nearly impossible on Shivers."

Hike nearby mountains: The Camden Hills trail system at Camden Hills State Park Campground offers multiple difficulty levels about an hour's drive from Stonington. "There are hiking trails just outside your doorstep, and you are within five miles of a grocery, restaurants, attractions," reports Nancy W., while another camper adds that the park "has direct access to Mount Megunticook, and Mount Battie, and offers easy to advanced hikes."

Explore working harbors: Visit the fishing docks early morning (4-6AM) to watch lobster boats heading out. One visitor to Greenlaw's RV Park & Campground noted the proximity to authentic maritime culture: "Located near Stonington, it is near the harbor, restaurants, a sand beach and the ferry to Isle au Haut. Opportunities for Kayaking, SUP's and hiking abound here on a quiet island."

What campers like

Privacy between sites: At Greenlaw's, campers appreciate the spacious layout. "This is a wonderful campground with sites with lots of privacy. We stayed for a month and were very happy with our stay," shares Bob W., adding that "the amenities are all well done, limited in scope. The result is a quiet atmosphere."

Oceanfront views: Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls in nearby Brooklin offers waterfront campsites with direct ocean access. "Site number 4 was great it was tucked away a bit yet still had a nearby bathroom and a 3 minute walk to the seashore which was beautiful," reports Andrew B., who recommends getting "fresh lobster from the local lobster man that lives on the grounds, they even supply you with a pot to boil them!"

Dark skies for stargazing: The minimal light pollution around Stonington creates exceptional night viewing conditions. Kyle R. at Seawall Campground notes that "for stargazers, the short walk across the street to the beach will give you some unbelievable views of the milky way when the night is at peak darkness."

What you should know

Limited services: The Stonington region has minimal facilities compared to tourist-heavy areas. A reviewer of Mount Desert Campground warns: "Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water." Pack accordingly with sufficient supplies.

Weather variability: Coastal Maine weather shifts rapidly, with frequent fog banks reducing visibility. "I would advise making reservations if you want to stay over a weekend or during the summer season as this park really fills up," advises a Camden Hills State Park visitor, noting that inclement weather can limit outdoor activities.

Island camping regulations: When island camping, strict leave-no-trace policies apply. For Shivers Island, "you are required to use Wag Bags instead of digging a cat hole to dispose of human waste," explains Shari G., adding that "since all of the islands are first-come, first-served, have a back-up plan for camping on another island."

Tips for camping with families

Look for campgrounds with built-in activities: Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA offers structured recreation 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," explains Melissa N.

Choose sites with easy water access: Mount Desert Campground offers floating docks that kids enjoy. "The BEST part of this campground for our family was Somes Sound and the floating docks. We purchased a crab bucket with net from the coffee shop one morning for around $10-12. It was well worth it as my kids crab gigged for HOURS off the docks every day!" shares Whitney W.

Pack for variable temperatures: Maine coastal mornings often start at 50°F and reach 75°F by afternoon. "The night was clear, the stars out, and the sounds of the Atlantic nearby made a superb camping experience. With coastal hikes so close, sunrise hikes and exploring the tide pools were outstanding!" notes Steve M. from Seawall Campground.

Tips from RVers

Size restrictions apply: Many campgrounds near Stonington limit RV length. Ian R. at Greenlaw's notes: "This is a small, wooded campground with large private sites. The upper sites where we are have a great view of the sky for Starlink users." Most waterfront sites accommodate smaller units under 25 feet.

Satellite reception challenges: Dense tree coverage impacts connectivity. At Camden Hills State Park, "There is no cable and satellite can be difficult due to trees. There are nine sites (55-63) located in an open field that may be able to pick up satellite. Our antenna found one major network and a few PBS stations."

Off-season advantages: Visiting in September-October reduces crowds. "We arrived just a few days after the park opened for the season so the campground was especially quiet," notes one Camden Hills visitor, while Coffee&Camping T. adds that at Greenlaw's, "once your reservation is made reservations are on the honor system that you show up. No prepayment was required."

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Stonington, Maine camping areas?

Camping areas near Stonington offer varying amenities depending on the location. Greenlaw's RV Park & Campground provides private sites with good AT&T reception, well-maintained facilities, and a quiet atmosphere. While amenities are limited in scope, they're thoughtfully designed for a peaceful experience. For those seeking island camping, Saddleback Island on the Maine Island Trail offers free primitive camping spots and beaches maintained by the Maine Island Trail Association. Most campgrounds in the region provide basic facilities like toilets and water access, but amenities tend to be simpler than in more developed areas, emphasizing Stonington's natural beauty and tranquil setting.

What is the best time of year to go camping in Stonington, Maine?

The prime camping season in Stonington runs from late spring through early fall (May-October), with July and August offering the warmest temperatures and busiest conditions. Duck Harbor Campground in nearby Acadia National Park operates during this peak season, with its limited sites requiring advance reservations. Some visitors prefer the shoulder seasons of late May-June or September-early October when Schoodic Woods Campground and other area facilities are less crowded but still operational. Late April can be challenging as many campgrounds haven't opened for the season yet. Fall brings spectacular foliage but cooler temperatures, while winters are generally too harsh for most camping experiences in the region.

Where can I find campgrounds near Stonington, Maine?

Several campgrounds are available within driving distance of Stonington. Mount Desert Campground offers immaculate grounds and bathroom facilities on Somes Sound. For RV travelers, Mainstay Cottages & RV Park in nearby Winter Harbor provides small sites with great views and is close to a ferry that goes to Bar Harbor. For a more primitive experience, coastal islands accessible by kayak offer unique camping opportunities. The Deer Isle archipelago includes numerous camping spots managed by the Maine Island Trail Association. Within a longer but reasonable drive, you can also reach Acadia National Park's campgrounds including Blackwoods, Seawall, and Schoodic Woods.