Camping options near Surry, Maine extend beyond RV parks with full hookups. Located on Maine's eastern coastline, Surry sits at the head of Union River Bay with elevations ranging from sea level to about 400 feet. The camping season typically runs from mid-May through mid-October, with July and August seeing the highest temperatures averaging 75°F during daytime hours. Fall temperatures can drop below freezing overnight, especially in October.
What to do
Kayaking on tidal waters: The coastal location near Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort provides water access for paddlers, though timing is critical. "You have about a four-hour window to paddle because of the tides. You will be left walking across muddy soft clam flats if you are not mindful of the 10-12 foot tides," notes one visitor.
Hiking Schoodic Peninsula: The less-crowded section of Acadia National Park is just 10 minutes from some coastal campgrounds. "Just ten minutes away is the Schoodic Woods section of Acadia– a less busy and equally beautiful area of the National Park. Plus, there are many nearby nature preserves and public lands that have great hiking," shares a camper at West Bay Acadia RV Campground.
Exploring small coastal towns: The Surry region offers access to charming fishing villages. "The smaller island towns of Northwest Harbor and Southwest Harbor were more our style than the touristy Bar Harbor. Check out the farmers market in Northwest Harbor and the Common Ground Soup Kitchen in Southwest Harbor for hot delicious popovers," advises a camper at Narrows Too Camping Resort.
What campers like
Community gardens: Some campgrounds provide unexpected amenities. "We love the free community garden which has a wonderful selection of produce including strawberries, tomatillos, fresh herbs, beans, lettuces, etc. Feel free to pick whatever you will eat, just leave some for others," explains a visitor at West Bay Acadia RV Campground.
Dark skies for stargazing: The region offers excellent night sky viewing opportunities. "Another great thing about this park is that it is a certified dark sky park. Campers are asked to turn outside lights off so there is no light noise to interfere with the beautiful sky full of stars, planets, and meteor showers," notes a camper about West Bay Acadia.
Ferry access: Some waterfront campgrounds provide convenient boat transportation. "Located on Winter Harbor, great views. Steps away from the small ferry that goes to Bar Harbor and a few minutes to Schoodic Peninsula," describes a visitor at Mainstay Cottages & RV Park.
What you should know
Tide considerations: The dramatic tidal shifts affect waterfront activities. "While the tide is out it's just a gross area of mud, muck, and rocks. We couldn't even kayak because the tide is that dramatic," reports a visitor at Narrows Too Camping Resort.
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds experience water system problems. "There is defined an issue with the water. When we turned in the tap the water ran brown," notes a camper at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Busy seasonal traffic: During peak summer months, nearby roads can get congested. "Sites in the 100's and 200's are near Route 3 which is a very busy road," explains a reviewer at Timberland Acres RV Park. This location is convenient for RV camping near Surry, Maine while providing shopping access.
Tips for camping with families
Quieter campgrounds for younger children: Not all campgrounds cater equally to families. "I would primarily recommend this campsite for retirees and couples without children. The park doesn't offer many kid-friendly amenities beyond the pool, so families with young children might find it lacking in entertainment options," advises a visitor at Narrows Too Camping Resort.
Beach access for kids: Waterfront locations offer natural play areas. "The kids loved playing on the playground and going down to the water at low tide. There is a kayak launch as well, and pool, but both were closed since we came in at the end of season," shares a camper at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Specialty accommodations: Unique lodging options appeal to adventurous families. "This campground is absolutely adorable. RV, tent, Treehouse camping to camping out in a Teepee! A huge Teepee with a very comfortable queen size bed- a couch, table, area animal rugs, coffee maker and a fan if needed," describes a visitor at Cottonwood Camping & RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Grocery shopping: Save money by planning shopping stops. "Grab groceries in Ellsworth if you want to save $," advises an RVer at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Check laundry facilities: Amenities vary between parks. "The laundry has two wash machines/dryers and was clean and tidy," reports a camper at Moorings Oceanfront RV Resort.
Site selection for RVs: Choose sites based on your needs. "Most sites are level and there are long pull thrus so you don't have to unhitch if you are only staying one night," notes a visitor at Pumpkin Patch RV Resort. This provides convenient overnight RV camping near Surry, Maine for travelers passing through.