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."
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