Mount Desert Island, home to most of Acadia National Park, encompasses 108 square miles with a mixed spruce-fir and northern hardwood forest ecosystem. The island features 26 mountains and more than 120 miles of hiking trails, creating unique camping microclimates. Camping options near Acadia range from tent-only sites to luxury glamping accommodations, with most campgrounds open from mid-May through mid-October.
What to do
Explore tidal pools at low tide: At Bass Harbor Campground, visitors can easily walk to nearby coastal areas. "It was a short walk to the Bass Harbor Lighthouse, and with coastal hikes so close, sunrise hikes and exploring the tide pools were outstanding," notes Steve M. of Seawall Campground. The rocky shoreline reveals starfish, crabs, and other marine life during low tide.
Kayak from waterfront sites: HTR Acadia offers water access for paddlers. "Sites were equipped with hammock trees, fire rings, picnic tables, and even running water and electricity," reports Sam L. Campers can launch kayaks directly into Somes Sound, a fjord-like body of water cutting into the island.
Use the Island Explorer shuttle: The free shuttle connects many campgrounds to park attractions. "The shuttle has a bike rack so you can bring your bike and pets are allowed," explains Nancy W. from Bar Harbor Campground. Service typically runs late June through early October, stopping at major hiking trailheads and swimming areas.
Stargaze from oceanfront spots: "For stargazers, the short walk across the street to the beach will give you some unbelievable views of the milky way when the night is at peak darkness," shares Kyle R. about Seawall Campground. The island's minimal light pollution creates optimal conditions for night sky viewing, especially along the western "quiet side."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Hadley's Point Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Staff friendly, welcoming, helpful and all around wonderful. The bathrooms are very clean, as well as everything else," mentions Diana C. Most campgrounds charge for showers, typically 25 cents for 5-7 minutes of hot water.
Proximity to attractions: Location matters when choosing glamping close to Acadia National Park. "This campground is in a good location right off Route 3 and a short drive to Bar Harbor," explains Nancy W. Many sites are within 20-30 minutes of major park attractions but offer more seclusion than in-park camping.
Oceanfront glamping options: Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA offers premium waterfront accommodations. "We were at an 'Oceanfront' site, which was really great and worth the extra money to watch the seals, birds, and easy access for kayaking," shares Meghan B. Waterfront sites typically cost 30-50% more than standard sites but provide direct ocean views.
Privacy levels: "The sites are decently spacious, and the campground is generally quiet. Privacy between sites is lacking here - there are some sites that have a little bit of privacy between neighboring sites, and some have none at all," Ashlee L. observes about Seawall Campground. Sites on the western side of Mount Desert Island typically offer more seclusion than those near Bar Harbor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Acadia require advance bookings. An exception is Bar Harbor Campground, where "sites are first come first served. Show up, find an empty spot. Pay for it and it's yours," explains Celeste M. During July and August, booking 2-3 months ahead is recommended for most campgrounds.
Shower facilities vary: "The showers in the campground are on ground level, and the two outer restroom stalls in each men's and women's room have windows in them that don't have privacy glass- someone walking by can see RIGHT in them," warns Ashlee L. about Seawall Campground. Many campgrounds charge for showers, while others include them in site fees.
Public beach access: Lamoine State Park offers alternatives to crowded park beaches. "Quick walk to a beautiful beach with lots of rocks and shells to comb through! Sunset was epic!" shares Erin W. The park sits on the mainland across from Mount Desert Island, providing views without the crowds.
Insect conditions: "Remember to bring a ton of bug repellent, or opt to go during the months where bugs are less mild," advises Kyle R. from Seawall Campground. Black flies are typically worst in May and June, while mosquitoes persist through August, especially in wooded areas and near standing water.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools as alternatives to ocean swimming. "There is a heated swimming pool perched right along the water," notes Nancy W. about Bar Harbor Campground. This provides safer swimming options for younger children compared to the often chilly ocean waters around Mount Desert Island.
Activity programs: Quietside Campground provides budget-friendly options on the less-crowded western side of the island. "My wife and I rented a 'hobbit' cabin for our anniversary for 3 nights at 50 dollars a night it was a great deal," shares Micah B. These unique accommodations appeal to families with children.
Playground options: "Also a nice playground area for kids to enjoy," mentions Melissa L. regarding Hadley's Point Campground. Several facilities offer recreation areas, game rooms, and organized activities during peak season. Some campgrounds organize scavenger hunts or junior ranger-type programs.
Beach exploration: Family-friendly beaches provide safe exploration zones. "There is a day use area and a public boat launch. You could launch a kayak from the park. The day use area is lovely, as is the launch area," reports Heather C. about Lamoine State Park. These areas typically have gentler terrain for younger explorers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: "Not all sites full hookup but it's coming next year," advises Audra H. about Bar Harbor Campground. RVers should verify exact hookup configurations when booking, as many campgrounds offer a mix of water-electric and full-hookup sites at different price points.
Leveling challenges: "Many sites are not flat and require significant leveling if in an RV," warns Heather C. about Lamoine State Park. The rocky, hilly terrain around Acadia means many RV sites require leveling blocks or jacks, especially at state park and national park campgrounds.
Size restrictions: "A little bit unusual in that you can't make a reservation. We were able to drop in and get a nice RV site," Kevin W. says about Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls. Many campgrounds limit RV length to 35 feet or less, especially on the western side of Mount Desert Island where roads are narrower.
Dump station access: "There is no power/sewer/water at any of the sites. There are water faucets around the campground, and a dump station near the entrance," notes Heather C. about Lamoine State Park. Most campgrounds without full hookups provide dump stations, though usage may incur additional fees at some locations.
