Tent campsites near Stonington, Maine offer primitive camping experiences on islands 10-14 miles from the mainland harbor. Most sites require boat access through the Maine Island Trail Association (MITA) or other organizations, with landing conditions heavily dependent on tidal conditions. While many campsites lack modern amenities, their remote locations provide exceptional access to coastal wildlife, ocean activities, and seasonal experiences from May through October.
What to do
Wildlife observation: Duck Harbor Campground on Isle au Haut allows visitors to observe coastal birds and marine life. According to a camper, "This is a beautiful place to camp and an amazing island to explore by bike, by kayak, and on foot" with access through the "daily mailboat which goes directly to Duck Harbor from Stonington."
Blueberry picking: During late July and early August, Continuous Harmony Farm offers a unique camping experience where visitors can "pick your own blueberries alongside their raking crew in their organic wild blueberry barrens." A camper notes the site is "gorgeous, right next to a pond," though "there are several campsites... not marked at all."
Island hopping: With over 200 islands available through the Maine Island Trail, campers can create multi-day adventures between sites. At Nathan Island, "We stayed 2 nights on Nathan and paddled to Duck Harbor for some day hiking on Isle au Haut," making it an excellent base camp for exploring the broader archipelago.
What campers like
Primitive solitude: The remote nature of island camping appeals to those seeking isolation. Shivers Island, known locally as "Honeymoon Island," is "perfect for just 2 people" according to a reviewer who appreciated that "what this island lacks in 'amenities' is made up for in beauty all around!"
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution and open horizons create exceptional night sky viewing. A camper described Nathan Island as "the perfect place to make dinner, watch the sunrise or set, and star gaze with no city lights or trees to obstruct your view."
Proximity to hiking trails: Many campsites provide access to coastal walking paths. Duck Harbor Campground features "several miles of moderate hikes" and feels like "backpacking light" as "you need to bring everything with you (except water) on the mailboat and then walk on a short distance to one of 5 campsites."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Duck Harbor Campground requires advance planning. A camper explains, "if you don't go online within 10 minutes of opening day, April 1st, at 10 am EST, you will miss your chance to stay here for the whole year."
Human waste disposal: Island campsites have strict rules about waste. At Saddleback Island, "you are required to use Wag Bags instead of digging a cat hole to dispose of human waste," making advance preparation essential.
Early morning noise: Local fishing industry creates predictable disturbances. A reviewer warns about "the sound of lobster boats motors, as they start their day pretty darn early; bring ear plugs if you are light sleeper."
Weather preparedness: Coastal fog creates navigational challenges. Pack appropriate navigation tools as "the fog can roll in at any minute."
Tips for camping with families
Consider mainland alternatives: For families wanting more amenities, Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss offers "level sites, views of rolling blueberry fields, a picnic table, and other goodies from your host" with easier access than island sites.
Plan for tidal access: When camping with children, time your arrivals carefully. With "significant tidal fluctuations (9-14 vertical feet)," a camper notes that "landing at high tide is nearly impossible on Saddleback (and many other islands)."
Pack entertainment: Natural features provide built-in activities. One family enjoyed that "we swam in the water everyday, and picked/ate the blueberries!" at Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss.
Consider noise factors: Family sleep schedules may be disrupted by local activity. A camper at Four Acre Woods Campground reported they "heard our neighbor snoring" because "the sites are small and close together."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Only select sites near Stonington accommodate recreational vehicles. Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss campsite 2 has "land [that] is open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv" according to a recent visitor.
Dry camping preparation: No hookups are available at most locations. A reviewer notes that Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss is "dry camping, with no hookups, and generators are not allowed."
Check for level sites: Parking surfaces vary significantly. One RV camper described Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss as offering "level sites" with good views, making it more suitable than the rocky island alternatives.
Consider navigation challenges: RV access to remote areas requires planning. A visitor commented that "as we drove out there we realized that is was in a pretty remote part of the island, which was not what we were expecting."
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