Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls offers upscale glamping in Stonington, Maine, with canvas sites situated on the Blue Hill peninsula. The property features several wooden platforms with direct access to the water via a path with metal bridges. Located approximately 3 miles from the town of Brooklin, the campground provides a central location for exploring Maine's coastal region with sites spaced throughout wooded and open areas. Water temperatures in this region typically remain below 60°F even during summer months, creating refreshing conditions for morning swims.
What to do
Hiking coastal trails: Near Seawall Campground, visitors find excellent hiking options. "There are many trails that twist around this fantastic national treasure. 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.
Kayaking from shore: Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA offers water activities right from your site. "Our waterfront site 344 was terrific - gorgeous view, and one of the larger waterfront spots. We could launch our kayaks directly from the site. The kayaking from the park is very good, with protected access into Mt. Desert Narrows," explains Heather C.
Stargazing without light pollution: The darker skies near Stonington provide exceptional stargazing. "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," shares Kyle R. about the Seawall area.
Local lobster experiences: Many campgrounds offer fresh seafood connections. "Highly highly recommend getting fresh lobster from the local lobster man that lives on the grounds, they even supply you with a pot to boil them! Ask for the recipe," suggests Andrew B.
What campers like
Outdoor shower facilities: Many glamping sites feature outdoor bathing options. "Great campground with a cool old school vibe. The Anaconda of a rope swing near the office is a must. So is watching the sunset from the chairs overlooking the channel," describes Joe R. about his stay at Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls.
Private water access: Direct ocean access ranks high among camper priorities. "The setup is great, plenty of space. And access to the beach is awesome. We went for a morning swim and swam to the platform," shares one visitor about Reach Knolls.
Quiet camping options: HTR Acadia provides a more peaceful option. "I showed up to Maine unprepared with a place to stay. The entire staff during my 6 nights was very friendly. Both sites were very nice. The sites were equipped with hammock trees, fire rings, picnic tables, and even running water and electricity," recounts Sam L.
Wildlife sightings: Campers report frequent wildlife encounters. "Beautiful, quiet location with views of the deer isle bridge and access to walking the beach. One night we heard a bunch of coyotes howling nearby which was pretty cool," notes another camper.
What you should know
First-come availability: Some properties don't take reservations. "This 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," explains Nancy W. about Bar Harbor Campground.
Limited shower availability: Many campgrounds have restricted shower access. "Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water," reports Karla J.B.
Site selection matters: Research specific sites before booking. "Do not take site H5. This would have been a 5 star campground if it were not for the fact that I paid full price for a 'campsite' that was NOT a campsite. It was a parking space for my trailer and nothing more," cautions Amy G.
Variable privacy levels: Site privacy varies significantly even within the same campground. "Sites are all right next to each other and very open so if there is someone next to you there's 0 privacy. It was a good basepoint though during mid-September to then explore Acadia NP," reports Ali B.
Tips for camping with families
Platform tents: Quietside Campground offers unique structures. "Sites were spaced out enough for privacy. We had a site with a wooden platform that was perfectly level. There was enough tree cover that we didn't get soaked during the rain. We went tent camping, but they had some very nice looking cabins on the grounds," shares Les R.
Activity planning: Structured campground programs help entertain kids. "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," mentions Melissa N.
Playground options: Some sites offer play structures. "The campgrounds website has a very helpful map showing which sites are reservable and what they offer. There is a dump station and water spigots are scattered throughout the campground. Free showers are located in the bathhouse/restrooms and were clean," writes Nancy W.
Transportation alternatives: "The campground is on the Island Explorer bus route, which is a series of busses that take you to different areas of Acadia National Park and into the surrounding towns. Once you arrive at the campground, you wouldn't need to use your car again," explains Brandy N.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Camden Hills State Park Campground offers varied hookup options. "Sites and patios are gravel and level with a picnic table and fire pit. Approximately half the sites have water and 30/50 amp electric and the others are no hookups. The campgrounds website has a very helpful map showing which sites are reservable," shares Nancy W.
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds near Stonington have limited big rig capacity. "There are a limited number of sites for those over 35 feet and the gravel roads are easy to navigate in a big rig," notes one reviewer.
Seasonal considerations: "I'm here in 2025 and they are doing work on their water system so none of their water is potable," warns Missy R. about late-season camping.
Technical challenges: Cell service varies dramatically. "For television watchers, 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," explains a visitor.
