Tent campsites near Vinalhaven, Maine cluster around the southeastern part of Penobscot Bay, requiring navigation through challenging maritime conditions with strong currents and submerged ledges. Most primitive camping sites sit on islands with granite outcroppings that offer limited flat areas for tents. Seasonal considerations include summer fog that can reduce visibility to under 100 feet without warning, particularly during July and August.
What to do
Kayak exploration: Paddling between islands provides access to isolated beaches and wildlife viewing. A camper at Shivers Island notes, "The nearby village of Stonington has all the things you need for an island camping trip. You can even rent kayaks and nearly all the gear you need from Old Quarry Ocean Adventures."
Hiking on Isle au Haut: The island offers several moderate trails accessible from camping areas. A visitor to Nathan Island shared, "We stayed 2 nights on Nathan and paddled to Duck Harbor for some day hiking on Isle au Haut."
Blueberry picking: Seasonal berries grow on several islands during late summer. At Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss, "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
Island solitude: The remote locations offer rare privacy despite limited space. A camper at Saddleback Island explained, "With a deep, rocky shore, it's the perfect place to make dinner and watch the sunrise or set, all with beautiful views of Mount Desert Island, the home of Acadia National Park."
Night skies: Minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing. According to a Nathan Island visitor, "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."
Lobster boat culture: Morning fishing activity provides an authentic Maine experience. One camper mentioned, "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."
What you should know
Marine navigation requirements: Fog demands proper preparation. A Shivers Island visitor warns, "The fog can roll in at any minute so come prepared with a chart, compass, bearings between islands/markers and a marine radio."
Human waste protocols: Environmental regulations prohibit traditional methods. As noted at Duck Harbor Campground, "There is fresh water a short walk away from the campground, and a bear proof food storage locker at each lean-to. Mosquitoes can be bad during the summer."
Tidal landing considerations: Water level changes affect accessibility. A Saddleback Island camper explains, "The tide in this area is significant (9-14 vertical feet), and landing at high tide is nearly impossible on Saddleback (and many other islands)."
Float plan requirement: Safety protocols demand documentation. "Leave a float plan before you go out (Old Quarry Ocean Adventures is the perfect spot to do this, as well as launch and park for a small fee)."
Tips for camping with families
Insect preparation: Summer brings dense mosquito activity. A Duck Harbor visitor advised, "Mosquitoes can be bad during the summer, so I would recommend bringing a bug net or small backpacking tent which you could set up in the lean-to for more protection and privacy."
Alternative accommodations: For less rugged family options, consider glamping. A visitor to Tops'l Farm shared, "You can choose to stay in a tent or a cabin. The tents are outfitted with two beds and a nice outdoor seating area. Candles and solar lights will keep it illuminated at night."
Emergency communications: Cell service remains unreliable on most islands. Bring marine radios and satellite communication devices for emergency contact capabilities, especially with children present.
Tips from RVers
Mainland staging areas: No RV camping exists on Vinalhaven itself, but nearby mainland locations serve as bases. At Four Acre Woods Campground, "All the things you need are there - firewood, water, bathrooms and showers, and even electricity at the site."
Ferry logistics: Vehicle transport requires advance planning. The Vinalhaven ferry accommodates limited vehicles per sailing, with summer reservations required 1-2 months in advance for RVs.
Island day trips: Leave RVs at mainland campgrounds and make day visits. "We were there when it was still cold and was the only person so it didn't bother me," notes a Four Acre Woods camper about the mainland camping experience.
