Best Campgrounds near Aurora, ME

Aurora, Maine serves as a gateway to diverse camping experiences in Maine's eastern woodlands, with options ranging from full-service RV parks to primitive tent sites. Great Pond Outdoor Recreation Area, located in nearby Great Pond, offers year-round camping with accommodations for tents, RVs, cabins, and glamping setups. Within an hour's drive, Parks Pond Campground in Clifton provides similar amenities during its mid-May to mid-October season. The region sits strategically between Bangor and the coastal attractions of Acadia National Park, making it a convenient base for exploring both inland forests and Maine's iconic rocky coastline.

Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping availability in the Aurora area. Most campgrounds operate from May through October, with limited winter options except for Great Pond. Cell service varies considerably throughout the region, with stronger coverage near larger towns and spotty reception in more remote areas. As one camper noted about nearby Schoodic Woods, "There is almost no light pollution on the point and the Milky Way was visible around 10pm on a clear night." Weather patterns include warm summers with occasional thunderstorms and cool, crisp nights even in July and August. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for weekend stays during peak summer months, particularly for sites with water views or full hookups.

Many campgrounds in the region feature water access as a primary attraction. Waterfront sites at Mount Desert Campground receive consistently high ratings, with one visitor describing it as having "immaculate grounds and bathroom facilities on Somes Sound." Campers frequently mention the privacy between sites as a significant factor in their experience, particularly at locations like Acadia East Campground where walk-in sites offer more seclusion. The proximity to hiking trails and natural features also ranks highly in visitor reviews. Facilities vary widely, from basic amenities at more rustic campgrounds to full-service options with showers, laundry, and camp stores at larger establishments. Most campgrounds in the region allow pets, though specific rules regarding leashes and designated areas differ by location.

Best Camping Sites Near Aurora, Maine (130)

    1. Great Pond Outdoor Recreation Area

    2 Reviews
    Aurora, ME
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 584-2000

    "Great location to just disconnect from the rest of the world!

    Only downside was we went during black fly season, wait until they are gone to be able to enjoy it fully!"

    2. Parks Pond Campground

    3 Reviews
    Otis, ME
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 843-7267

    "My spot was right next to road. I honest didn't notice road threw out the night. Water rentals kayaks etc were very reasonable. Staff was very nice."

    "THe all around environment was very welcoming. I will definitely stay again in the future."

    3. Blackwoods Campground — Acadia National Park

    93 Reviews
    Seal Harbor, ME
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 288-3274

    $30 - $60 / night

    "Close proximity to Bar Harbor and a lot of the main attractions of the national park. Showers are just outside of the entrance to the campground, coin operated."

    "Super short walk down a path to the oceans edge complete with cliffs, rocks and waves!! Just really a lovely place to camp. Close to many other attractions in the park!"

    4. Bar Harbor Campground

    32 Reviews
    Salsbury Cove, ME
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 288-5185

    $60 - $81 / night

    "We love the state parks and unorganized, off the beaten path camping. This is definitely not that!"

    "This is a nice campground located close to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park."

    5. Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA

    33 Reviews
    Salsbury Cove, ME
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 288-3520

    "This campground has beautiful tent sites along the waters edge."

    "It 11 miles to Bar Harbor town proper and only 8.7 miles to the Hulls Cove Acadia National Park visitors center and the entrance to the Cadillac Mountain Summit Road."

    6. Hadley's Point Campground

    28 Reviews
    Salsbury Cove, ME
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 288-4808

    $29 - $90 / night

    "**Campground Review: **

    Hadley’s Point Campground is located on the north side of Mt Desert Island and just a short distance from Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park."

    "There was a fire ring outside of the cabin and a picnic table. We purchased firewood at a stand close to the campground."

    7. Airline Lodge and Snackbar

    1 Review
    Beddington, ME
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 638-2301

    "The office which is conveniently located in Amsterdam helps visitors with bookings questions and other travel-related concerns."

    8. Bangor Holden KOA

    4 Reviews
    Holden, ME
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 843-6011

    "Quick walk to bathrooms & showers, which are very clean. Held lots of activities over the weekend, busy crowd. Got a nice secluded tent space."

    9. Mount Desert Campground

    36 Reviews
    Mount Desert, ME
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 244-3710

    "Desert, Maine which is right next to the fabulous town of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Forest."

    "Our site was right next to a potable water spigot, and within easy walking distance to a bathroom building which includes full plumbing and metered showers (4 quarters for 5 minutes)."

    10. Schoodic Woods Campground — Acadia National Park

    35 Reviews
    Winter Harbor, ME
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 288-1300

    $22 - $60 / night

    "Schoodic Loop Road -- less popular than the main park "Park Loop Road", provides access to gorgeous shore line views and more hiking trails, but RVs and trailers aren't allowed past the campground entrance"

    "Although it is quite a ways off the beaten path, Schoodic Woods Campground is well worth the travel time. The campground is new, so it is sparkling clean."

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Showing results 1-10 of 130 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Aurora, ME

608 Reviews of 130 Aurora Campgrounds



Guide to Aurora

Camping near Aurora, Maine, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful landscapes and plenty of activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore Acadia National Park: Just a short drive away, this park has stunning views and hiking trails. One camper mentioned, "The location is great—both to visit the park and for access to Bar Harbor."
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Rent a kayak or canoe to explore the waters around Mount Desert Campground. A reviewer said, "There are kayak or canoe rentals, and so much more."
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the nearby lakes and rivers. A camper at Somes Sound View Campground noted, "The views were breathtaking," while fishing from the dock.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One review for Schoodic Woods Campground stated, "Restrooms were very clean and there was plenty of hot water for the coin-operated showers."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers mention the helpfulness of the campground staff. A visitor at Bar Harbor Campground said, "The camp hosts do a great job of keeping the campground clean."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having enough space between sites. A review for Hadley's Point Campground mentioned, "The sites are spacious."

What you should know:

  • No Reservations at Some Campgrounds: Many campgrounds, like Bar Harbor Campground, operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A camper noted, "This campground is huge and takes no reservations, so it works great for us who don’t like to plan ahead."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A visitor at Schoodic Woods Campground pointed out, "There are no showers, but you can wash up in the bathhouse."
  • Wildlife: Be aware of local wildlife. A camper at Narrows Too Camping Resort warned, "Be aware of skunks at night. They are everywhere in the campground."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. A family at Mountainview Campground said, "The owners were so incredibly nice and helpful! They gave us their own brochure with hidden gems all around the area."
  • Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours to ensure everyone has a good time. A camper at Hadley's Point Campground mentioned, "It was quiet and relaxing enough for a romantic getaway."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A visitor at Bar Harbor Campground noted, "There’s a market nearby for quick supplies."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Narrows Too Camping Resort mentioned, "The sites are so close no way to put out awning if you are in a motor coach."
  • Use the Dump Station: Know where the dump stations are located. A camper at Schoodic Woods Campground said, "There is a sanitary dump, but no sewer hookups."
  • Wi-Fi Availability: Be aware that Wi-Fi can be spotty. A visitor at Lamoine State Park Campground noted, "The camp wifi is just okay, but gets congested easily."

Camping in Aurora, ME, and the surrounding areas provides a mix of adventure and relaxation. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Aurora, ME?

According to TheDyrt.com, Aurora, ME offers a wide range of camping options, with 130 campgrounds and RV parks near Aurora, ME and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Aurora, ME?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Aurora, ME is Great Pond Outdoor Recreation Area with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Aurora, ME?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Aurora, ME.

What parks are near Aurora, ME?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 1 parks near Aurora, ME that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.