Yurt camping near Swanville, Maine offers access to the natural beauty of Waldo County where elevation ranges from 200-400 feet above sea level. The region experiences warm summers with average July temperatures of 70°F and cool nights, ideal for campfires. Campers can choose from secluded woodland sites to oceanfront locations with tide-dependent water access, all within a 30-mile radius of Swanville.
What to do
Kayaking on local waterways: Searsport Shores Ocean Campground provides direct water access where you can paddle alongside marine life. "At low tide you can do fun rock designs on the shore... During high tide you can launch kayaks right from your site," notes Stacy M., highlighting the versatile water activities available with changing tides.
Hiking nearby trails: Camden Hills State Park Campground offers extensive hiking options with varying difficulty levels. "There are miles and miles of hiking trails just outside our doorstep. Driving the tour road to the summit of Mt. Battie (elevation 800') is a must and the views are spectacular (especially for watching the sunrise)," says Nancy W., describing the convenient access to scenic viewpoints.
Visit artist workshops: Creative activities are available for campers of all ages at several locations. "It's also a treasure trove of arts of all kinds - fiber arts, metal sculptures, carvings, paintings, and music," explains one visitor about Searsport Shores, which features regular arts programming throughout the summer season.
What campers like
Private outdoor showers: Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls offers a unique bathing experience. "Facilities are well cared for, both indoor and outdoor hot showers," says Fred M., with another camper noting, "Hubby used the outdoor shower and thought it was great."
Community atmosphere: Bar Harbor Campground creates opportunities for socializing. "The manager is a bit neurotic and that's the reason it is at 4 stars not 5. We will keep going for the campground price and place until the manager ruins it for us or they close it," explains Tammy H., showing how even imperfect management doesn't deter loyal campers who appreciate the community feel.
Lake access for swimming: Sennebec Lake Campground provides water recreation options beyond the ocean. "We love the proximity to the lake with easy access for kayaking and swimming. New ownership this year resulted in some updates, as well as the addition of glamping tents near the beach," says Pam A., describing the freshwater alternative to coastal camping.
What you should know
First-come systems: Some campgrounds don't take reservations. "The Bar Harbor 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.
Shower costs: Most campgrounds charge for showers. At Seawall Campground, showers are "open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water," according to Karla J.B., while at Bar Harbor Campground they cost "25 cents for 5 minutes" according to Celeste M.
Yurt camping options: Cooley-Davies Homestead in Swanville offers yurt accommodations with composting toilets and hot showers. "A beautiful, peaceful spot amid woods & pasture," notes Ashley F., making it an excellent base for exploring the region.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with child-friendly amenities. "There are a lot of full timers with elaborate and trashy set ups," cautions Dan N. about Patten Pond Camping Resort, suggesting families might want to choose more curated environments.
Island Explorer shuttle: Hadley's Point Campground provides transportation options that eliminate parking hassles. "The campground is on the Island Explorer bus loop, which is the bus that takes you all around Mount Desert Island, to Acadia, and Bar Harbor. We used the bus almost every day, and it was super helpful because you do not want to try and find parking in Acadia in the peak season," advises Jenna L.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Plan shore excursions during low tide. "At low tide you can do fun rock designs on the shore, they offer lobster bake at the ocean for $60 pop with some sides," mentions Stacy M. about Searsport Shores, where kids can explore tide pools.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Many campgrounds place RVs close together. "My challenge with the KOA is the sites were so close together and it was very crowded. Everyone was really packed in, with no buffer between sites," notes Heather C. about Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA, suggesting privacy-seeking RVers might want alternative options.
Hookup configurations: Check specific details about site utilities. "Sites are very close together, some are shaded, some not. Our sewer dump was 3 ft or less from the neighbors fire pit, spotty WiFi, tv antenna only grabbed 4 public access channels. Good water pressure," explains Kristine B. about Hadley's Point, highlighting the importance of understanding utility layout before booking.
Seasonal considerations for yurt camping: When considering yurt camping in Swanville, Maine, note the seasonal availability. "We are full time RV'rs and have stayed at lots of campgrounds but this place holds a special place in our hearts. The people working are the perfect compliment to a beautiful location," shares Dan G., emphasizing that staff quality makes a significant difference in the camping experience, especially with semi-permanent accommodations like yurts.
