Camping areas near Dedham, Maine extend across Hancock County's forested hills, with elevations ranging from 50 to 450 feet above sea level. The region's summer temperatures typically range from 55-78°F, with cooler evenings that campers should prepare for even in July and August. Most campgrounds in this area close after Indigenous Peoples' Day (formerly Columbus Day), marking a shorter camping season than southern Maine locations.
What to do
Kayaking on lakes and ponds: Branch Lake Camping Area offers direct water access with excellent visibility. "We pulled up at around 7:30pm and found most campers sitting out of their RV's enjoying the night. The view was amazing and it wasn't too windy for our tents. Everyone there was extremely nice and friendly. The price was excellent and kayaking on the lake was an added bonus," notes James L.
Swimming in freshwater: Patten Pond Camping Resort provides beach access and swimming areas with gradual entry. "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," reports Mara S. The pond has 26.5 miles of shoreline and reaches depths of 124 feet.
Blueberry picking: Bar Harbor Campground offers free blueberry picking during mid-summer. "Mid July to Mid August free blueberries campside," mentions Tammy H. The campground's location offers ocean views while still providing this seasonal treat.
Exploring Acadia National Park: Blackwoods Campground serves as a central base for park exploration. "Walking distance to the ocean, the park loop road and miles of hiking trails. Easy to access site using gps or maps provided by national park," writes Paige B. The campground sits within Acadia's boundaries for maximum trail access.
What campers like
Quick access to Bar Harbor: The Bar Harbor Campground provides convenient transportation options. "Rode our bicycles to Bar Harbor, a little over 12 miles round trip," reports Kevin W. Many campers appreciate the Island Explorer shuttle service that stops at campgrounds throughout the area.
Reasonable rates for waterfront access: Branch Lake Camping Area offers waterfront camping without premium pricing. "We had loons come in close to our site. Saw an Eagle too. We sat our chairs in the water and cooled down everyday and floated on our noodles. Great relaxing place," shares B M.
Spacious sites at select campgrounds: Pumpkin Patch RV Resort offers well-spaced sites for those wanting more room. "Sites are very clean and the park is well-groomed with maintenance people always mowing or cleaning sites. There is pretty good space between sites so you don't feel cramped or right on top of your neighbor," notes Nancy W.
Clean facilities: Hadley's Point Campground maintains high cleanliness standards. "Staff friendly, welcoming, helpful and all around wonderful. The bathrooms are very clean, as well as everything else. Quiet peaceful, we were so happy we extended our stay and rebooked to come back next month!" reports Diana C.
What you should know
First-come camping options: Bar Harbor Campground operates without reservations. "Is a first come first serve campground. Show up find an empty spot. Pay for it and it's yours. I first had a tent space facing the ocean $36. Very close to the Pool for one night. Next morning I found an electric and water spot $40 close by and moved," explains Celeste M.
Campground payment policies: Some campgrounds have strict policies. One visitor to Bucksport/Fort Knox KOA noted a dispute over deposits, writing that when canceling 30 days prior to arrival during COVID-19 border closures, they were told "your deposit is non refundable" based on it being a "holiday week."
Tent site conditions vary widely: At Blackwoods Campground, some tent sites present challenges. "Sites were very gravely for tents and not level," reports מלאכי א. In contrast, Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA offers more level sites but with less privacy.
Cell service considerations: Balsam Cove Campground has connectivity limitations. "Due to location, wifi signal is poor, and Verizon and T-Mobile are so so at different times of the day if you need to be connected," notes Travis A.
Tips for camping with families
Look for organized activities: Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA offers structured 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," explains Melissa N.
Consider cabin options: Hadley's Point Campground provides cabin alternatives for families new to camping. "Our family of four stayed in a camping cabin for 5 days. The cabin contained a queen sized bed and a set of bunk beds. It also had a private bathroom with metered shower. 50 cents got you a hot, 7 minute shower, which was plenty of time!" shares Brandy N.
Evaluate campground density: Some families prefer quieter settings. At Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA, one visitor noted: "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. The 339-342 sites were literally bumper to bumper. It is a very, very busy campground."
Tips from RVers
Check site specifics before booking: Hadley's Point Campground has varying site types. One RVer reported: "We reserved a full hook up (back in), and were directed by an employee to our site. We incurred damage to our vehicle relying on the eyes/directions of an employee. The sites are very close together, some are shaded, some not."
Look for pull-through availability: Bangor Holden KOA offers convenient pull-through sites. "We booked a deluxe patio site. The site was great, flat and easy to back into," reports Abby G. Similar options exist at Pumpkin Patch RV Resort, where "there are long pull thrus so you don't have to unhitch if you are only staying one night."
Check hookup placement: At Pumpkin Patch RV Resort, placement is convenient. "All the hook-ups were well-placed and we did not need extensions to connect," notes Nancy W. This detail matters for RVers with limited cord and hose lengths.
