Nearby Attractions
Balsam Cove Campground is surrounded by a plethora of recreational activities and attractions:
Water Activities
Fishing, swimming, boating, canoeing, and kayaking are available not only on Toddy Pond but also in many nearby ponds, lakes, and inlets.
Explore Acadia National Park
The breathtaking beauty of Acadia National Park, where rugged cliffs meet crashing waves along Maine’s iconic rocky coast. The park is visited by over two million people each year. There’s no shortage of recreational activities there: everything from hiking and rock climbing to wildlife watching and experiencing a narrated boat cruise. The park features 125 miles of trails, including the Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail, which is suited to intermediate to advanced hikers to trek its 7.4 steep miles. Or take a drive up the motor road to experience a gorgeous sunrise. Children enjoy indoor activities at the Hulls Cove Visitor Center, the historical exhibits at the Islesford Historical Museum on Little Cranberry Island, and the Native American history center at Abbe Museum.
Bucksport Area
Experience the world’s tallest bridge observation tower. Enjoy some of the freshest seafood, or grab a lobster to cook back at camp. Bucksport, a historic seafaring port founded by Jonathan Buck in 1764, is a centrally located 'gateway' town at the upper end of Penobscot Bay. It connects Acadia Highway to Bar Harbor and Camden, Route 15 to Blue Hill, the Peninsula, and Bangor. Less bustling yet picturesque, Bucksport offers excellent views of the iconic Waldo/Hancock Bridge and historic Fort Knox across its sparkling harbor. The charming waterfront walk and park is ideal for picnics and relaxation, with access to the working harbor and marina. Visitors can explore the Northeast Historic Film archives, theater, visitor center, and the Bucksport Historical Society Museum.
Great Pond Conservation Trust
Just a few minutes from Balsam Cove, you’ll find the Great Pond Conservation Trust, devoted to the preservation of the Orland River Watershed. Perfect for recreational diversions such as mountain biking and hiking. Stunning trails lead to picturesque destinations, including Hellbottom Swamp and Hothole Valley – a 3,420-acre plot of forest connected to Great Pond Mountain, Oak Hill, Flying Moose and Flag Hill Mountain.
Blue Hill
Very close to Toddy Pond is the historic town of Blue Hill, which was settled in 1762 and officially established in 1789. The municipality’s industry revolved around shipbuilding and bartering. Today, Blue Hill is still home to much of its original architecture, now considered antique. Every year, the town holds the famous Blue Hill Fair, run by the Hancock County Agricultural Society (an organization that has been in existence since 1891). Art galleries and eateries surround the picturesque harbor.
Sightseeing Cruises
Whale & Puffin watching, Lighthouse tours.
Stonington
The nation’s lobstering capital, is nestled on a remote peninsula and conveys a secret-garden charm with its salt-and-pine-scented hiking trails and scenic shoreline. Downtown's 19th-century buildings and winding streets evoke a timeless atmosphere. Balancing a creative and industrial economy, Stonington thrives as a year-round fishing town, artist haven, nature lover’s retreat, and a bastion of traditional living.
Lighthouse Trail
Follow the historic Maine lighthouse trail to capture that perfect photo. Do a day trip to Lubec, Maine, the easternmost town in the U.S. This region is rich with jaw-dropping vistas and iconic lighthouses. Lubec is home to West Quoddy Headlight – famous for its candy cane stripes - and the Quoddy Head State Park. Over the bridge is Campobello Island, where President Franklin Delano Roosevelt had his summer home. (A standard driver's license is not sufficient for crossing the border to Campobello Island. Use a valid passport, passport card, NEXUS card, or an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) for entry into Canada) and be aware of the strict laws governing bringing dogs back from Canada.