Tent camping options near Union, Maine extend beyond the farm settings described previously, with several marine-based sites available within a 45-minute drive. The coastal region sits where the St. George River watershed meets Penobscot Bay, creating diverse camping environments from inland forest sites to island outposts. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F with frequent evening cooling, while early fall brings temperatures dropping into the 40s at night.
What to do
Kayak to island campsites: Located about 35 miles from Union, the Maine Island Trail offers primitive camping on islands like Nathan Island and Shivers Island. One camper noted of Shivers Island, "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."
Hike Acadia day trails: From Union, the Duck Harbor Campground in Acadia National Park makes an excellent overnight destination. A reviewer mentioned, "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."
Blueberry picking: During late July through August, several farms near Union open their fields to campers. At Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss, a camper shared, "We absolutely loved this site, it was nothing we had ever experienced before. The views were incredible, we swam in the water everyday, and picked/ate the blueberries!"
What campers like
Privacy levels: While some sites near Union offer close communal camping, others provide significant separation. At Continuous Harmony Farm, a visitor explained, "The space is gorgeous, right next to a pond. Important to know though, there are several campsites. It's unclear how many campers could be there on any given night but it could be many."
Tent platforms: Several campgrounds provide raised wooden platforms to keep tents dry. At Tiny Cabins of Maine, a camper appreciated that "The tent camping amenities, including the pop-up toilet and sturdy wooden platform, were thoughtfully provided. The fire pit and picnic table were perfect for evening gatherings."
Local ecology: The best tent camping near Union, Maine often includes unique natural features. One camper at Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss described, "The land was quiet and peaceful - it is acres of blueberry fields, which create a special sense of being in nature. The site we were at had a nice tree, which framed the site."
What you should know
Reservation timeline: For popular sites, planning ahead is essential. A Duck Harbor visitor advised, "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."
Site identification challenges: Many smaller campgrounds lack clear markings. A Continuous Harmony Farm camper reported, "The sites are not marked at all and there did not seem to be a way to check in (it was first come first serve for us)."
Weather preparedness: The Maine coast experiences rapid weather changes. For island camping at Saddleback Island, a ranger warned, "The fog can roll in at any minute so come prepared with a chart, compass, bearings between islands/markers and a marine radio."
Tips for camping with families
Farm-based experiences: Several farms near Union welcome family camping. The Tops'l Farm reviewer mentioned, "There is a common space that includes picnic tables and a large fire pit. The bathhouse building also has charging stations for each tent so you can stay plugged in during your stay!"
Pond activities: Water features provide entertainment for children at multiple campgrounds. A Tiny Cabins of Maine visitor noted, "Kayaking in the pond was a highlight, thanks to the convenient dock."
Bug management: Families should prepare for insects. A camper at Tops'l Farm advised, "Only downfall…There are quite a few of mosquitos. Thankfully they provide various bug spray's that you can use!"
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Finding flat terrain for RVs requires research. A Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss camper reported, "We stayed in campsite 2, where the land is open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv."
Utility limitations: Most natural settings near Union lack hookups. The same reviewer noted, "It is dry camping, with no hookups, and generators are not allowed."
Water access considerations: Several RV-friendly sites offer water views but limited shore access. A camper explained, "The owner had a picnic table set up with flower boxes in it, and there was a nice fire ring. They will sell you wood if you need it."
