The Deer Isle Archipelago offers primitive tent campsites near Swans Island, Maine across multiple islands. Many sites require Maine Island Trail Association (MITA) membership, with some islands accessible only during specific tide conditions. Located in the Gulf of Maine, this region experiences temperature ranges from 40-70°F during camping season and tides that fluctuate 9-14 feet, significantly affecting boat landing options and camping logistics.
What to do
Hike Isle au Haut trails: Duck Harbor Campground provides access to multiple miles of moderate hiking trails in Acadia National Park. "There are several miles of moderate hikes. Starting in 2018 reservations will be online starting April 1. The campground is open mid May to mid October but the mailboat only goes to the campground from late June to late September; otherwise a 5 mile walk from town," notes a Duck Harbor Campground visitor.
Swim in freshwater ponds: The beaches at Donnell Pond offer swimming options when ocean conditions aren't suitable. "We were able to swim here as well. We went fishing and did catch a couple of fish! These are public/free and first come first serve sites. We only went for one night but really enjoyed it here," shares a camper at Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land.
Kayak between islands: The archipelago offers numerous paddling routes between islands. "Getting to the island is possible through the daily mailboat which goes directly to Duck Harbor from Stonington, but the best way to get there is to paddle up in a sea kayak as we did!" explains a Duck Harbor Campground visitor.
Blueberry picking: Some sites offer seasonal blueberry harvesting. "We picked/ate the blueberries! I'm giving 4 stars only because it was a little difficult to find our site as there was nothing labeled," mentions a visitor to Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss.
What campers like
Solitude and star viewing: The remote islands provide exceptional night sky viewing. "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," reports a camper from Nathan Island.
Simple, rustic accommodations: Duck Harbor Campground provides basic lean-to structures. "Each of the 5 sites offers a classic lean-to structure with a campfire ring and a picnic table. But it's not the site which makes this place so special. Sticking out into the Gulf of Maine, this is one of the most remote islands with established camping and recreational trails on the coast," explains a visitor.
Beach camping options: Some locations permit camping directly on beaches. "There are two beaches that you can camp on that have sites with fire rings and picnic tables. A lot of people at both beaches. We found a spot and it was gorgeous with the Mountain View's," shares a Donnell Pond camper.
Privacy at certain sites: Some locations offer more seclusion than others. "The sites are secluded enough but not isolated. People in the other campsites were very friendly and respectful. Had dinner on the beach as the sun set behind the lake," notes a recent Donnell Pond visitor.
What you should know
Challenging reservations: Duck Harbor Campground sites are extremely competitive. "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. You won't be the first to get denied and certainly not the last," warns a camper.
Weather preparedness: Fog develops quickly in this coastal region. "The fog can roll in at any minute so come prepared with a chart, compass, bearings between islands/markers and a marine radio," advises a Shivers Island visitor.
Waste management requirements: Pack-out systems are required. "You are required to use Wag Bags instead of digging a cat hole to dispose of human waste," notes a Nathan Island camper.
Site finding challenges: Some locations have minimal signage. "It was a little difficult to find our site as there was nothing labeled, and I tried contacting the host but never received a response. However, once we found the site we were immediately in love. It was so quiet, private, and beautiful," reports a Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss camper.
Tips for camping with families
Choose walk-in sites for beginners: Short hike-in sites can work well for families new to backpacking. "The hike in is only about 1/2 mile so it's totally doable even if you need to make two trips," explains a Donnell Pond camper.
Consider noise factors: Early morning fishing operations can disturb sleep. "You may get awakened by the sound of lobster boats motors, as they start their day pretty darn early; bring ear plugs if you are light sleeper," advises a Shivers Island visitor.
Look for level terrain: Some island sites offer better tent placement. "This island is perfect for a few small tents or you can rent the island's cabin through MITA," notes a Saddleback Island visitor.
Plan for limited amenities: Most sites lack facilities families might expect. "The camping spot is simple and similar to most backcountry sites: a flat space to pitch your small tent, no toilet, no drinking water, no picnic table, and no reservations possible," shares a Saddleback Island camper.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most island tent campsites near Swans Island don't accommodate RVs, but mainland options exist. "We stayed in campsite 2, where the land is open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv. There are 4 total campsites, and each offers a slightly different view and sense of privacy," notes a Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss visitor.
Generator restrictions: Some sites prohibit generator use. "It is dry camping, with no hookups, and generators are not allowed. The owner had a picnic table set up with flower boxes in it, and there was a nice fire ring," reports a Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss camper.
