Grand Isle Campground has operated as a northern Maine RV campground under the ownership of George Dionne since its establishment in 2014. With the St. John River coursing near the property, fishermen are often drawn to the general area as well as ATV riders who utilize a trail that neighbors the establishment. The business is open seasonally from the middle of May to the end of September, during which visitors can reserve a full-hookup site. George tries to make safety a priority at the campground, and he intends to help his guests feel welcome. As the owner finds enjoyment in meeting those who stay on-site, he makes a habit of interacting with visitors and giving them the opportunity to ask questions if they have any. In addition to encouraging campers to explore the natural surroundings through outdoor activities, George promotes a community-oriented atmosphere by hosting karaoke several nights each week.
Occupying a three-and-a-half acre property in Maine's northernmost region, Grand Isle Campground is located approximately 1,000 feet from the Canadian border. With a total of 24 RV sites available for visitors to reserve, the campground offers 13 seasonal sites and 11 general spaces that are primarily utilized among daily travelers. The amenities provided with each reservable space include water, sewer, and electrical hookups; some sites are equipped with 50-amp electrical service, while others provide 30-amp hookups. George Dionne, the business owner, remarks that the sites that provide 50-amp hookups tend to be the most popular as opposed to the sites with 30-amp service. Moreover, a picnic table and mobile firepit are supplied at every spot as well. Between the sites is a line of trees along the plot of grass that divides the gravel pads. It should be noted that the seasonal sites are back-in, while the general spaces are pull-through.
Guests of Grand Isle Campground are additionally given access to the amenities on the acreage that are found beyond the RV sites. One such is a restroom facility that contains showers, a washing machine, and a drying machine. George explains that the use of the washing and drying machines works by the honor system. As such, those who use of the laundry machines are required to pay George a four-dollar fee. Apart from the restroom facility, Grand Isle Campground also features an on-site playground with a swingset as well as a walking trail that reportedly meanders to the Gulf of the St. John River. The property is adjacent to a notable ATV trail that visitors frequently take advantage of over the course of their stay, according to George. He further notes that this ATV route connects to all of the other ATV trails found in Maine.
On account of the establishment's rural location in the countryside, outdoor activities serve as a significant pastime for travelers in the area. George adds that muskey fishing is fairly popular, and "if you're lucky, you could catch a 44-inch fish." The campground's proximity to St. John River can facilitate fishing for patrons who take an interest in such activities. Another specific attraction in the vicinity of Grand Isle Campground is Four Corners Park, which George says is—as the name implies—one of four parks that are found in the corners of the United States. He mentions that Four Corners Park was initially established by bikers, and it can be found about eight miles from the campground. For visitors who seek nearby dining options, George typically directs his guests to Dolly's Restaurant in Frenchville, Maine, which he says offers Acadian dishes; Misty Meadows, a rustic-style restaurant in Grand Isle; and Lakeview Restaurant in St. Agatha.
With the goal of helping guests feel welcome at Grand Isle Campground, George Dionne, the owner, makes an effort to interact with guests frequently. He intends to keep himself available for those who may have questions or concerns during their stay, and he strives to make everyone feel safe at the campground. As an attempt to offer this experience, George tries to check up on his guests periodically throughout the day, informing new visitors about the functionalities of the laundry machines and providing recommendations of nearby restaurants and attractions in the area. The owner also aims to create a community-oriented environment by hosting karaoke nights throughout the week at the property's 13-foot high 22x32 commercial-size tent.
Future patrons of the establishment should be aware of a few policies that are implemented. While the property is pet-friendly, dog owners are expected to take sole responsibility for cleaning up after their pets and keeping them leashed at all times on the premises. Furthermore, quiet hours begin every night generally around 10:30 after the karaoke is finished.
Grand Isle Campground is open seasonally from May 15th to September 30th. George observes that the busiest time of year most commonly occurs roughly from June 1st to September 15th. Retirees and older couples constitute the main demographic of those who stay at the campground, and a fair amount of repeat guests have been received annually as well.
Prior to becoming the present-day Grand Isle Campground, the acreage formerly served as a softball field. It wasn't until 2014 that George Dionne, the current host, acquired ownership over the property due to the need for lodging in the locality. George explains that this section of Maine would host an event known as The World of Acadian Congress, which led him to establish the campground. Starting with six sites, the owner mentions that four sites have been added each year to provide a higher quantity of accommodations for travelers. Since the time of its establishment, George has come to find that meeting people is what he enjoys the most about his occupation.
288 Main Street
Grande Isle, Maine 04746
United States
Campground
George Dionne
