Swimmers and kayakers gravitate to Bar Harbor Campground for its direct water access and large swimming pool overlooking Frenchman's Bay. The 300-site campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis from May through October, with sites ranging from full hookups to primitive tent spots scattered across open terrain and wooded sections.
The campground's unusual check-in system lets arrivals drive around to scout available sites before registering. Campers can claim a spot by leaving a personal item, then head to the office to complete paperwork. Nancy W. notes "all different types of sites are available from FHU, electric/water, or privative sites." Waterfront sites with bay views fill quickly but sit close together, while wooded areas offer more privacy and shade. Some corners prove tight for large RVs, and several reviewers mention unlevel sites becoming the only option during busy periods.
The Island Explorer shuttle stops directly at the campground, providing free transportation to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park with bike racks and pet-friendly policies. On-site amenities include coin-operated showers at 25 cents for five minutes, a large laundry facility with $1 washers and dryers, and nature trails for dog walking. The pool sits right along the water, and an arcade and playground occupy the entrance area.
Road access can be rough in sections, and the campground prohibits generators entirely. WiFi reaches most areas but proves spotty in some locations. Outdorothy O. observes "lots of stars to peek at during nights next to your campfire." Payment requires cash or check only, and the seventh night stays free. Arrive early in the morning for the best site selection, especially during summer months when crowds peak.
Description
Bar Harbor Campground is the Closest Campground to the town of Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park and other points of interest. We offer quality camping, at affordable prices and we accommodate the smallest tent to the largest RV. This quiet, family owned campground, open from Memorial Day to Columbus Day, is perfect for families of all sizes. We are a family owned campground, and our focus is on making your stay a great one. We do things a little differently here. Most noticeable may be the fact that we don't accept advanced reservations. When you arrive, we give you a detailed map of the grounds, and invite you to drive through and pick the site that really suits your likes and needs. Find your spot, get set up, then come and see us in the office. As you can see from the map below, we offer everything you might need for memorable stay, and with Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park close by, we're the perfect choice. Make sure and check our policies page to familiarize yourself with the campground rules. Please note that we do not accept credit cards, but we do take checks, and we have an ATM located in the office.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Private CampgroundBar Harbor Campground is located in Maine
Directions
From jct Hwy-102/198 & Hwy-3: Go 5 mi SE on Hwy-3.
Coordinates
44.43254896 N
68.26926567 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/3/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 30 usersLast on 4/3/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 5 usersLast on 4/3/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 4/3/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 30 usersLast on 4/3/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 5 usersLast on 4/3/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Market
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 53 min from Bangor, ME
- 2 hrs 12 min from Lewiston, ME
- 2 hrs 50 min from Portland, ME
- 3 hrs 53 min from Manchester, NH


























