Vinalhaven, Maine sits on one of the Fox Islands in Penobscot Bay, surrounded by the rugged Atlantic coastline with summer temperatures averaging 68-75°F during peak camping season. The region features rocky shorelines with granite formations and limited public camping areas, with most visitors accessing the island via ferry from Rockland. For those seeking luxury camping close to Vinalhaven, Maine, several nearby mainland options provide comfortable accommodations with coastal access.
What to do
Kayaking on Penobscot Bay: From Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, visitors can explore protected waterways with diverse wildlife. "We went swimming at their beach and saw a seal!" reports Michael K., highlighting the marine experiences available directly from camp.
Hiking quiet trails: The less crowded western side of Mount Desert Island offers excellent hiking options near Quietside Campground. "It is a 5 minute drive to Acadia National Park, has free warm showers, flushable toilets and beautiful campsites," notes Fiona T., making this location convenient for day trips to popular trails.
Explore historic lighthouses: The Bass Harbor Lighthouse is accessible by foot from nearby campsites. "It's walking distance to the Bass Harbor Head Light, and that is just beautiful. Rarely is there ample parking at the light, so walking from your site has its advantages," explains Melissa N., pointing out the benefit of camping proximity to popular attractions.
What campers like
Oceanfront access: Searsport Shores Ocean Campground offers direct shoreline access with communal gathering spaces. "Gardens are really nice with scattered art in the gardens, goats. And lots of little activities like horseshoes, Giant connect four games, hammock etc," shares Stacy M., describing the variety of amenities beyond water access.
Community atmosphere: Many upscale camping sites near Vinalhaven feature organized activities. "A magical place. This place is so much more than a beautiful campground nestled among gorgeous old growth trees located right on the shore. It's also a treasure trove of arts of all kinds - fiber arts, metal sculptures, carvings, paintings, and music," explains Kathy L. about Searsport Shores.
Quiet evenings: The peaceful atmosphere allows for stargazing opportunities. "For stargazers, the short walk across the street to the beach will give you some unbelievable views of the milky way when the night is at peak darkness," Kyle R. mentions about Seawall Campground, highlighting natural night attractions.
What you should know
Shower arrangements: Public facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "The shower house is located in a separate facility about a mile from the campground entrance. A bit inconvenient, but not terrible... however, the showers in the separate facility up the road are expensive," Ashlee L. notes about Seawall Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Most luxury camping spots operate from May through October. "We have a tiny trailer that fits in a tent site. But when reserving online, being unfamiliar with the campground, we were prompted to enter the total length of trailer + vehicle. That put us in loop C with huge RVs much closer together than the other loops," advises Karla J.B., suggesting careful reservation planning.
Site privacy: Some high-end camping accommodations have close quarters. "The sites were a decent size and the campground is fairly quiet at night," reports Pam A. about Sennebec Lake Campground, where glamping tents were recently added near the beach area.
Tips for camping with families
Island transportation: Use public shuttles to avoid driving challenges. "There is also a shuttlebus that runs from the campground all day, which will take you all the way to bar harbor and throughout the island and park," Laura L. recommends, noting this service makes exploring easier with children.
Look for organized activities: Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA offers scheduled family programming. "As with any KOA they have lots of activities throughout the day for families, and a pool, but she loves the ice pop contest. if you find a painted rock and bring it to the office you get a free ice pop," Melissa N. shares about kid-friendly incentives.
Consider campsite location: Families should research site layouts for safety and convenience. "We tent camp, without power, so we are way out back. no car noise, Private, a bit of a walk to the showers and bathrooms but the privacy is worth it," adds Melissa about the KOA, highlighting the tradeoffs between amenities and seclusion.
Tips from RVers
Utility limitations: Check hook-up availability before booking luxury camping near Vinalhaven. "There is no cable and satellite can be difficult due to trees. There are nine sites (55 - 63) located in an open field that may be able to pick up satellite. Our antenna found one major network and a few PBS stations," Nancy W. shares about Camden Hills State Park Campground.
Site size considerations: Many glamping sites accommodate various vehicle sizes but have limitations. "Sites and patios are gravel and level with a picnic table and fire pit. Approximately, half the sites have water and 30/50 amp electric and the others are no hookups," Nancy continues about Camden Hills.
Water pressure challenges: Some areas have utility constraints. "Our site was on a hill but getting the camper in was easy. Water pressure was low, but the WiFi was awesome," notes TJ S. about HTR Acadia, highlighting infrastructure variations important for RV campers.
