The Aurora area offers diverse camping opportunities within the eastern Maine woodlands. Located at approximately 200 feet above sea level, the region features numerous small lakes and ponds scattered throughout rolling terrain. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F with higher humidity than inland areas. While Great Pond serves as a hub for year-round accommodations, smaller campgrounds along Route 9 provide seasonal alternatives for those seeking camping sites near Aurora, Maine.
What to do
Water activities on Somes Sound: Mount Desert Campground provides access to the only fjord on the eastern seaboard. "We took our chances by swimming around them. Watch out for jelly fish!! We purchased a crab bucket with net from the coffee shop one morning for around $10-12. It was well worth it as my kids crab gigged for HOURS off the docks every day!" reports Whitney W. about Mount Desert Campground.
Hiking without crowds: Less crowded trails can be found in the Schoodic Peninsula section of Acadia. "Quick note, make use of the Acadia National Park Chimani app, it had lots of handy information, plus the shuttle schedule and it works without service," advises Joseph N. from Blackwoods Campground.
Blueberry picking: Some campgrounds offer seasonal berry picking from mid-July through August. "Blueberry fields free to pick July to August," notes Tammy H. about The Bar Harbor Campground. The wild Maine blueberries are smaller and more flavorful than cultivated varieties.
Kayaking local waterways: Rental options are available at several campgrounds. "We rented double kayaks from the front office for 2 hours and kayaked Somes Sound - it was beautiful water & amazing exploring! A bit more difficult with the ocean currents vs lake kayaking, so keep that in mind with kids," advises a Mount Desert Campground visitor.
What campers like
Quiet, disconnect-friendly locations: Campers appreciate the opportunity to unplug. "It is very quiet and there is 0 cell service! Perfect place with lots to do at the campground! Great location to just disconnect from the rest of the world!" notes Ethyn B. about Great Pond Outdoor Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms consistently receive praise. "Bathrooms are dated but clean. There is a designated dishwashing drain to keep animals away from the campsites. Best part though was the lack of biting flies and mosquitoes!" reports Dana S. from Blackwoods Campground.
Family-oriented activities: Organized events keep younger campers engaged. "Lots of organized activities and great Bingo on Saturday night. We did the pancake breakfast for donation, crafts, and wagon ride during the day as well as enjoyed the well kept pool," shares Abby G. about Bangor Holden KOA.
Public transportation access: The Island Explorer shuttle system receives high marks. "We were able to walk to the shuttle pickup and ride it to all stops in the park, and to Bar Harbor. It was so convenient!" notes Roxanne R. about camping near Acadia.
What you should know
Seasonal insect challenges: Black flies can be problematic in late spring. "Only downside was we went during black fly season, wait until they are gone to be able to enjoy it fully!" warns Ethyn B. about Great Pond Outdoor Recreation Area. Black fly season typically runs from mid-May through late June.
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds don't accept reservations. "The campground does not take reservations so you can pick whatever open site you want and if you want to extend your stay, you can," explains Nancy W. about Bar Harbor Campground.
Limited shower facilities: Pay showers are common at campgrounds in the region. "Showers are 25 cents/5 minutes. You can definitely shower completely with one session of about 5 minutes," notes Whitney W. about Mount Desert Campground. Bring quarters.
Size restrictions for RVs: Many campgrounds limit vehicle size. "Campers over 20 feet are not allowed. The sites are large however the terrain is difficult to navigate," explains Garrett D. about Mount Desert Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for organized activities: Some campgrounds offer scheduled events for children. "We did the pancake breakfast for donation, crafts, and wagon ride during the day as well as enjoyed the well kept pool. The kids loved the playground and the ice cream window," reports Abby G. about Bangor Holden KOA.
Consider platform tent sites: These level surfaces improve comfort on uneven terrain. "Since the campground sits among the rocky and mountainous coast line, they have spent the time and money building leveled platforms for all the sites. Without the platforms, the campsites would be quite miserable," explains Melissa W. about Mount Desert Campground.
Use free shuttle services: The Island Explorer bus connects many campgrounds to Acadia. "The shuttle has a bike rack so you can bring your bike and pets are allowed," notes a visitor to Bar Harbor Campground. The service typically runs mid-June through early October.
Pack for variable weather: Temperatures can drop significantly at night even in summer. "It poured all night so we took off pretty early. There is so much to see in the area that you won't want to spend much time hanging around in one spot," shares Joshua B.
Tips from RVers
Choose sites strategically: Site selection impacts stay quality. "We were in a rush to get my tent set up while I could still see. I managed and got a fire going in the provided ring. Sat for a while watching the fire with the ocean as the background," shares Joshua B. about The Bar Harbor Campground.
Limited hookup options: Full hookups aren't available at all campgrounds. "Not all sites full hookup but it's coming next year. Would stay again. Clean bathrooms but some showers don't have moveable shower head and that's tricky depending on your height," notes audra H.
Dump station availability: Some locations require offsite dumping. "There is NO dump station located at the campground however a few miles down the road, there is a campground that allows you to use theirs for a $20.00 fee," explains Garrett D. about Mount Desert Campground.
Camp store conveniences: On-site stores stock camping necessities. "The camp store was awesome with lots of great items we added to our camper!" reports Abby G. about Bangor Holden KOA.
