Acadia National Park features over 47,000 acres of diverse terrain spread across Mount Desert Island, offering pet owners numerous camping options within a short distance of Bar Harbor. The region's forests of spruce, pine, and hardwoods provide natural shade at many campsites, with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F during the day. Most camping areas sit at low elevations under 500 feet, with varying terrain from rocky coastline to inland forest settings.
What to do
Explore hiking trails with dogs: Schoodic Woods Campground offers access to both biking and hiking trails directly from campsites. "Surrounding the campground are miles of biking and hiking trails that are easily accessible from your campsite. There is a six-mile loop that takes you along the beautiful rocky coast with views of lighthouses, islands, forests, and wetlands," notes Nancy W.
Visit dog-friendly beaches: From Hadley's Point Campground, pets can access nearby beaches. "The site was nice, staff was decent," shares Anna G., who visited in mid-June. For water-loving dogs, Mt. Desert Narrows offers waterfront access where "you could launch a kayak from the park" according to one reviewer, making it suitable for dogs who enjoy swimming.
Utilize trails within campgrounds: Many sites feature internal trail systems where leashed pets can explore. "Nice little nature trails/dog walking areas," notes one visitor to Bar Harbor Campground, while another mentions that Blackwoods Campground has "lots of cool trails to explore within the campground."
What campers like
Oceanfront camping opportunities: Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA provides waterfront sites where pets can enjoy water access. "We could launch our kayaks directly from the site. The kayaking from the park is very good, with protected access into Mt. Desert Narrows," writes Heather C., making it ideal for camping with water-loving dogs.
Quiet camping alternatives: Lamoine State Park Campground offers a less crowded option for pet owners. "Great place to camp outside the crazy tourist packed Acadia but only a 25 minute drive to the park. Very nice sites, flush toilets and showers...Pet friendly camping," shares Kaelin P., highlighting its value as an alternative to busier locations.
Direct trail access: Multiple campers appreciate how some sites connect directly to hiking routes. "Hiking trails connect to the back of the campground for access to Beech Mtn and Echo Lake beach," reports Erin S. about Smuggler's Den Campground, providing convenient exercise options for pets without driving.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation essential: Some campgrounds require extra bug protection. "Between gnats and mosquitos, sitting outside to eat is nearly impossible," warns Rick C. about his experience at Schoodic Woods, emphasizing the importance of bringing effective repellent when camping with pets.
Varying site privacy levels: Seawall Campground offers different privacy options. "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," notes Ashlee L., which can be important for reactive dogs or those needing more space.
Seasonal considerations: The region's campgrounds operate primarily from May through October. "The site was nice, staff was decent. We were there in mid June and made reservations ahead of time, but there were still some sites empty on a Friday," shares Anna G., indicating that shoulder seasons might provide more availability for pet owners.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for kids and pets: Smuggler's Den Campground combines family features with pet-friendly policies. "Great for all types of camping. We've stayed here in a tent. There is a great playground and a nice pool with slide. Hiking trails connect to the back of the campground," says Erin S., highlighting amenities that please both children and pets.
Kid-focused activities: Several campgrounds offer organized recreation. "KOA delivered what it promised...a very family friendly camp, with lots of activities for kids," notes Heather C. Another camper shares that their "daughter begs to camp here...she loves the ice pop contest. if you find a painted rock and bring it to the office you get a free ice pop."
Accessibility considerations: When camping with families and pets, proximity to facilities matters. "Perfect location for those traveling with small kids, as it was just a stone's throw from both the bathhouse and playground," writes Jen V. about Smuggler's Den, site #16, providing practical insight for family camping with pets.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Blackwoods Campground, RVers with pets should note site characteristics. "Sites were very gravely for tents and not level," shares one camper. Another advises, "We were traveling with two other motorhomes (caravan) and my site was the smallest," highlighting the importance of careful site selection when bringing pets in larger vehicles.
Hookup limitations: Many pet-friendly campgrounds have limited services. "Sites have electric (20/30/50) and some have electric and water only reflected in cheaper prices," explains one reviewer about Schoodic Woods, while another notes, "Come to find out none of the oceanfront sites have sewer. They do have a honey wagon that will pump you out on Mondays and Fridays for 25$ a pop."
Shuttle access convenience: For RVers with pets, transportation options reduce parking challenges. "The campground is on the Island Explorer bus loop, which is the bus that takes you all around Mount Desert Island, to Acadia, and Bar Harbor. We used the bus almost every day," shares Jenna L., noting this service welcomes leashed pets and eliminates parking concerns.
