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Established Camping

Saddleback Island

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Saddleback Island offers a camping experience surrounded by coastal terrain with rocky shores and forested areas. The weather typically ranges from 60°F to 80°F in the summer and 20°F to 40°F in the winter. Nearby, visitors can explore Acadia National Park and enjoy the scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

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Location

Saddleback Island is located in Maine

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

44.14842759 N
68.58302399 W

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Connectivity

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    Excellent Coverage
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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
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    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Drive Time

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Access

  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Group
  • Cabins

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Saddleback Island needs a permit.

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2 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 11, 2018

Views Galore from this Maine Island paradise

The Maine Island Trail offers 200 islands in which to sea kayak camp and Saddleback Island is one of the many gorgeous options in the Deer Isle Archipelago. The free camping spots and beaches are maintained by the Maine Island Trail Association (MITA), which is a non-profit membership organization. This island is perfect for a few small tents or you can rent the island’s cabin through MITA.

The camping spot is simple and similar to most backcountry sites: a flat space to pitch your small tent, no toilet, no drinking water, no picnic table, and no reservations possible.  But, what this island lacks in “amenities” is made up for in beauty all around! 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.

The closest town is Stonington, which has all the things you will need for an island camping adventure. You can even rent kayaks and nearly all the gear you need at Old Quarry Ocean Adventures.

Things to consider when sea kayak camping in this area:  1) the fog can roll in at any minute so come prepared with a chart, compass, bearings between islands/markers and a marine radio, 2) you are required to use Wag Bags instead of digging a cat hole to dispose of human waste, 3) since all of the islands are first-come, first-served, have a back-up plan for camping on another island, 4) there are no docks, so the islands are not accessible to large boats, 5) 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, 6) 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), and 7) file 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).

SiteDispersed
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Saddleback Island by Shari  G., September 11, 2018
  • Review photo of Saddleback Island by Shari  G., September 11, 2018
  • Review photo of Saddleback Island by Shari  G., September 11, 2018
  • (12) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping options are available near Stonington, Maine?

Stonington serves as a gateway to numerous island camping destinations in the Deer Isle Archipelago. Sea kayakers can access multiple island campsites maintained by the Maine Island Trail Association (MITA), with Saddleback Island being a popular choice. These islands offer primitive, leave-no-trace camping experiences with beaches and scenic ocean views. The area provides opportunities for island-hopping adventures with varying degrees of remoteness. For mainland options, check with local outfitters in Stonington who can provide information on additional camping opportunities in the region.

What permits or regulations apply to camping on Saddleback Island?

Camping on Saddleback Island is managed by the Maine Island Trail Association (MITA). While the camping spots are free to use, MITA membership is generally required to legally camp on their maintained islands. Members receive an annual guidebook with detailed information about access points, landing areas, and specific camping regulations. Campers must follow strict leave-no-trace principles, pack out all trash, and respect designated camping areas. Group size limits may apply. Fires may be restricted or prohibited depending on conditions. Contact MITA directly for the most current regulations and to ensure proper access permissions.

How do I get to Saddleback Island in Maine for camping?

Saddleback Island is accessible only by sea kayak or boat as part of the Maine Island Trail in the Deer Isle Archipelago. To reach the island, launch from Stonington or other nearby coastal access points. Navigation skills are essential as the island is located within the greater island chain. Plan your paddling route carefully, accounting for tides, weather, and wind conditions. The island offers beach landings for kayakers. Be prepared for open water paddling and carry appropriate navigation tools, as Maine's coastal waters can be challenging.