Cottonwood Camping & RV Park offers equestrian-friendly accommodations approximately 1-2 hours from Acadia National Park in Columbia Falls, Maine. This facility provides multiple lodging options suitable for horse owners including full-hookup RV sites, tent areas, and specialty accommodations. Direct access to ATV trails from the property allows riders convenient route options. The campground layout features pull-through sites specifically designed to accommodate horse trailers with ample space for maneuvering.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Acadia National Park features over 45 miles of carriage roads where horses are permitted on designated routes. Cottonwood serves as a strategic base for day trips to these trails with trailer parking designed for easy access. According to Suzy M., Cottonwood provides "a good stop between Millinocket and Acadia National Park" with an "accessible owner" who can provide guidance on local riding conditions.
Horseback riding lessons: The owner at Cottonwood Camping & RV Park offers horseback riding instruction for guests of varying experience levels. Cheryl R. notes that "the owner also offers horseback riding lessons and trail rides," making it suitable for beginners looking to develop riding skills before tackling park trails.
ATV trail access: The campground provides direct access to ATV trails that also permit horses. J B. confirms this is "the first campground we have stayed at that has ATV trail access, horse friendly camping, full hookups, pull-through sites" and various accommodation types, calling it "a must see!"
What campers like
Unique accommodations: Beyond standard camping spots, equestrian visitors can experience distinctive lodging options. Cheryl R. describes her stay in a teepee: "A huge Teepee with a very comfortable queen size bed, a couch, table, area animal rugs, coffee maker and a fan if needed... Sleeping in the TeePee was an incredible experience." This provides a unique alternative for horse owners who prefer not to tent camp.
Clean facilities: The bathhouse facilities receive consistently positive reviews for cleanliness and reliability. Suzy M. specifically mentions the "outstanding bath facilities with united hot water (free too!)" which proves essential after a day of riding and horse care.
Western atmosphere: The campground's distinctive western-themed environment creates an appropriate setting for equestrian campers. As Cheryl R. describes it, staying there offers "a Wild West experience!" with appropriate amenities that complement the horse-friendly environment.
What you should know
Development status: The campground continues to undergo improvements and expansion. Don K. notes: "New park so lots of construction going on. Owner is very helpful. Will be a great park when it really gets going. W/E/S at most sites." This ongoing development may affect certain areas of the facility during your stay.
Seasonal considerations: Trail conditions around HTR Acadia vary significantly by season, with optimal riding typically available from late spring through early fall. During winter months, carriage roads in Acadia may be closed or unsafe for horseback riding due to ice and snow conditions.
Reservation requirements: During peak summer season, securing accommodations requires advance planning. Sites with appropriate horse trailer parking fill quickly, especially those with hookups. The campground offers both wooded and open sites suitable for varying preferences.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Families with both equestrian and non-riding members can find diverse activities. J B. highlights the range of options at Cottonwood Camping & RV Park: "tent camping, tent rentals, teepee rentals, 'tiny bird cabin', and a tree house" providing multiple accommodation choices for family groups with different interests.
Noise considerations: When selecting sites at equestrian campgrounds, consider noise levels from other campers and horses. Campground quiet hours typically begin at 10 pm, but enforcement varies by location and season.
Swimming options: After dusty trail rides, cooling off becomes a priority for families. Some equestrian-friendly campgrounds offer swimming access, though Cottonwood focuses primarily on riding amenities rather than water features.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers with horse trailers require specific site configurations. Don K. notes the reasonable pricing at Cottonwood: "35 to 45 bucks, in Maine that's not bad" for sites with "W/E/S at most sites." This provides good value for equestrian RVers requiring full hookups.
Power requirements: Most horse-friendly sites at Cottonwood offer standard 30-amp service rather than 50-amp connections. RVers with larger rigs should confirm power compatibility before booking, especially when traveling with temperature-sensitive horses requiring climate control.
Maneuverability: The campground layout accommodates large rigs with horse trailers. J B. specifically mentions the availability of "full hookups, pull-through sites" which eliminate the need for difficult backing maneuvers when arriving with a horse trailer in tow.
