Mid-coast Maine offers both oceanfront and woodland camping options within driving distance of Warren. Many campgrounds open seasonally from mid-May through mid-October, with tidal water access limiting kayaking to specific hours at some locations. Most facilities maintain gravel pads with varying degrees of privacy between sites.
What to do
Hiking at Camden Hills State Park: Located near Megunticook by the Sea Campground, this state park offers numerous trails and views. "The location of this campground is outstanding. Conveniently situated between Camden and Rockport off of Route One, the views of the Penobscot Bay are drop dead gorgeous. The kayaking, biking and hiking in the area is superb," notes one camper.
Explore marine history: The Penobscot Marine Museum in Searsport provides educational exhibits about coastal Maine's maritime heritage. "You are just five miles from the cute town of Searsport which houses the wonderful Penobscot Marine Museum and two miles from Moose Point State Park with hiking trails and gorgeous views," explains a visitor to Moorings Campground.
Visit coastal islands: Ferry rides to nearby islands offer day-trip opportunities. "We loved taking the ferry to Vinalhaven Island for the day and picking up prepared food at the Market Basket and eating it along the Rockland Harbor waterfront watching the boats come and go," reports a camper who stayed at Camden Hills RV Resort.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many RV sites near Warren, Maine provide water access though tide schedules affect usage. At Patten Pond Camping Resort, "There is a small beach at the lake where you can swim and kayak (for rent). People at the office are very nice, polite and accommodating," shares one visitor.
Privacy in wooded sites: Some campgrounds offer secluded options for those seeking quiet. At Greenlaw's RV Park & Campground, "This is a small, wooded campground with large private sites. They are working to improve the campground everyday," according to one review.
Seasonal community events: Many campgrounds organize social activities. At Shore Hills Campground & RV Park, staff arrange weekly gatherings. "I love this campsite. They have sites right on the water, a gift shop, pool, laundry, game room, free showers and the times that I've been there they've had weekly events like ice cream socials," notes a satisfied guest.
What you should know
Tidal considerations: Dramatic tides affect water access at coastal campgrounds. "You will be left walking across muddy soft clam flats if you are not mindful of the 10-12 foot tides," warns a camper at Narrows Too Camping Resort.
Limited connectivity: Cell service and WiFi vary significantly across the region. At some locations, "The wifi was a joke and we got frustrated and gave up. Not sure if it is any better in other areas of the park but it seems to be a common complaint that they tend not to fix," reports a visitor to Shore Hills Campground.
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds still operate with traditional booking methods. "Once your reservation is made (we texted the owner to make ours) reservations are on the honor system that you show up. No prepayment was required. An invoice is emailed to you with payment options the morning after you check in," explains a camper at Greenlaw's RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Campground activities: Some locations offer more family amenities than others. "The park doesn't offer many kid-friendly amenities beyond the pool, so families with young children might find it lacking in entertainment options," advises a visitor to Narrows Too Camping Resort.
Beach access for children: Sandy beaches are limited but worth finding. "The kids loved playing on the playground and going down to the water at low tide. There is a kayak launch as well, and pool, but both were closed since we came in at the end of season," notes a camper at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Proximity to attractions: Consider driving distances when selecting campsites. "This area has so much to offer - the highlight being Acadia NP. Here, hundreds of trails and gorgeous views abound. Trails range from easy to strenuous with some taking you on a nice walk around a lake or pond where others guide you along steep ledges and up with ladders and rungs," explains a visitor to Narrows Too.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Oceanfront locations offer views but come with trade-offs. "The waterfront sites are very expensive and very close together. Also, while the tide is out it's just a gross area of mud, muck, and rocks. We couldn't even kayak because the tide is that dramatic," notes one RVer about Moorings Campground.
Brewery camping option: Boothbay Craft Brewery & RV Resort offers a unique stay with onsite food and beverages. "This is definitely an RV park. The sites are close together, with full hookups. 50, 30, and 20 Amp, water and sewer. We had a pull through site which worked really well for newbies like my wife and I," explains a camper.
Road noise factors: Consider proximity to main roads when booking. "If there is a down side to the park it would be the road noise. You are right off of Rt. 27, which is the main road into Boothbay Harbor. The upside is you can easily ride the bike lane into town for some exploring without having to deal with tourist parking," shares a Boothbay Craft Brewery visitor.
