Best Dispersed Camping near Swanville, ME
Dispersed camping near Swanville, Maine centers primarily on boat-accessible islands in the Deer Isle Archipelago, managed by the Maine Island Trail Association (MITA). Several islands including Marshall Island, Wheat Island, Buckle Island, and Doliver Island provide primitive camping opportunities for sea kayakers and boaters. These sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis and are free for MITA members. The islands feature minimal development with no established facilities, creating a true backcountry camping experience in the Gulf of Maine.
Access to these dispersed camping locations requires watercraft, as all sites are designated as boat-in only. Campers must plan carefully for landing conditions, particularly at Doliver Island and Wheat Island, which can be difficult to approach at high tide. No drinking water is available on any of the islands, requiring visitors to pack in all necessary water supplies. Camping areas lack toilets, so visitors must bring waste disposal bags. Fires are permitted at most sites, though Marshall Island specifically offers designated areas for beach fires. Pets are allowed on most islands except Marshall Island.
The primitive island campsites provide exceptional Gulf of Maine views and stargazing opportunities. Each island offers distinct camping experiences, from Marshall Island's two sites with tent platforms and picnic tables to Doliver Island's extremely limited space that can barely accommodate a single tent. The islands vary in size and terrain, with some featuring wooded areas and others offering granite shores or shell-covered beaches. Seasonal considerations include mosquitoes, which can be problematic even into early September. "Sand Cove is perfect for a beach fire and stargazing on a clear night—some of the best stargazing spots we've ever seen," noted one camper about Marshall Island. Another visitor described Buckle Island as "perfect for those new to sea kayak camping as the sandy shore is easy to land on and a short walk to a trail into the woods."
