Camping on Mount Desert Island's western shore provides access to fewer crowds and more direct coastal experiences. The area around Bass Harbor receives approximately 5 inches less annual rainfall than the eastern side of Acadia National Park, creating more reliable camping conditions during peak season. The quiet side of the island maintains a more consistent temperature, averaging 5-7 degrees warmer in early spring and late fall than the Bar Harbor region.
What to Do
Visit Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse: Located just 0.7 miles from Bass Harbor Campground, this iconic lighthouse offers spectacular sunset views. "It's a short walk to the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, and that is just beautiful. Rarely is there ample parking at the light, so walking from your site has its advantages," shares a reviewer from Bass Harbor Campground.
Explore Ship Harbor Trail: This 1.3-mile figure-eight loop trail offers excellent tidepooling opportunities. "Check out ship harbor trail and the seawall, both very close and walking distance from the campground," recommends a visitor from Seawall Campground.
Kayak from shoreline access: Several campgrounds offer direct water access for kayaking. At Somes Sound View Campground, "The sites were equipped with hammock trees, fire rings, picnic tables, and even running water and electricity! One of the nights we heard a bunch of coyotes howling nearby which was pretty cool."
Stargaze from the beach: The western side of Mount Desert Island has significantly less light pollution. "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," notes a camper from Seawall Campground.
What Campers Like
Quiet locations: Unlike the busier eastern side, the Bass Harbor area maintains a more relaxed atmosphere. "This is a nice campground set in a slightly wooded area. It's fairly close to the ocean, so you can hear waves crashing against the rocky cliffs if it's quiet enough," reports a Seawall visitor.
Affordable glamping options: Glamping close to Bass Harbor, Maine offers budget-conscious alternatives. At Quietside Campground, "My wife and I rented a 'hobbit' cabin for our anniversary for 3 nights at 50 dollars a night it was a great deal. The on site baths and showers were clean and maintained great."
Ocean proximity: Many sites offer direct water views or access. "Our waterfront site 344 was terrific - gorgeous view, and one of the larger waterfront spots. We could launch our kayaks directly from the site," explains a visitor from Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept bathhouses. "The bathhouse was pretty clean. I was happy to meet the local dogs," notes a Bass Harbor camper. Another adds, "The roomy showers were a great surprise!"
What You Should Know
Limited cellular coverage: Many campgrounds have spotty service. "We didn't have reliable cell service. The shuttle bus takes 50 minutes to get to Bar Harbor, by car it's closer to 30," explains a camper from Seawall.
Shower facilities vary: Some campgrounds charge for showers. At Bar Harbor Campground, "The bathrooms were very clean showers are 25 cents/5 minutes. There is a really nice large swimming pool perched right along the water."
Reservation systems differ: While most campgrounds take reservations, some operate on first-come systems. "No reservations taken so get there early to get his sites," warns a Bar Harbor Campground visitor.
Site privacy varies widely: Research specific site numbers. "The sites are all right next to each other and very open so if there is someone next to you there's 0 privacy. It was a good basepoint though during mid-September to then explore Acadia NP," reports a Bass Harbor camper.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for campgrounds with pool facilities: Swimming pools provide entertainment options for children. "The campground had a pool, which my daughter loved but I much preferred going down the road to the lake to swim," mentions a Bass Harbor Campground visitor.
Consider proximity to ranger programs: Seawall Campground offers educational activities. "They also had lovely ranger led activities that seemed like a great selling point as well," notes a reviewer.
Find campgrounds with playgrounds: Several sites offer play areas. At Hadley's Point Campground, visitors appreciate the "nice playground area for kids to enjoy."
Choose campgrounds with organized activities: Some locations offer structured fun. "My daughter begs to camp here. As with any KOA they have lots of activities throughout the day for families, and a pool, but she loves the ice pop contest. if you find a painted rock and bring it to the office you get a free ice pop," shares a Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA visitor.
Tips from RVers
Check site limitations: Many campgrounds on the quiet side have limited space for larger rigs. "Roads in the park are paved but some corners can be a little tight for big-rigs, best to unhitch your tow car up front in case you have to back up," advises a Bar Harbor Campground reviewer.
Consider hookup locations: Some campgrounds have unusual configurations. "We incurred damage to our vehicle relying on the eyes/directions of an employee. The sites are very close together, some are shaded, some not. Our sewer dump was 3 ft or less from the neighbors fire pit," reports a Hadley's Point camper.
Book waterfront sites early: Premium RV sites with ocean views fill quickly. "Despite being next to the public oceanfront area (where lovely chairs and tables are provided) people would literally walk to the Oceanfront campsites and stand there snapping photos or just hanging around at sunset," notes a Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA visitor about the popularity of waterfront sites.
