The camping area surrounding Beddington, Maine offers diverse terrain ranging from inland lakes to coastal access points. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 200-500 feet, with temperatures ranging from 45-75°F during the prime May-October camping season. Cell phone coverage varies widely between established campgrounds and remote dispersed sites, with many locations offering designated pet exercise areas.
What to do
Hiking with views: Schoodic Woods Campground provides access to multiple trails with ocean perspectives. "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," shares Nancy W.
Kayaking from campsites: At Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA, many waterfront sites allow direct water access. As Meghan B. notes, "The next 5 nights we were at an 'Oceanfront' site, which was really great and worth the extra money to watch the seals, birds, and easy access for kayaking."
Blueberry picking: From mid-July through August, several campgrounds offer free blueberry picking. "Blueberry fields free to pick July to August," mentions Tammy H. about Bar Harbor Campground. This provides a unique seasonal activity while gathering fresh berries for camp meals.
Swimming in natural settings: Donnell Pond offers excellent swimming options for visitors seeking pet friendly camping near Beddington. "We found a spot and it was gorgeous with the Mountain View's. We were able to swim here as well," explains Amanda F., highlighting the multiple recreation opportunities available.
What campers like
Quick park access: Hadley's Point Campground provides convenient transportation options. Jenna L. reports, "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, and it was super helpful because you do not want to try and find parking in Acadia in the peak season."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain exceptionally clean restrooms and common areas. At Blackwoods Campground, Dana S. notes, "Despite being a fully booked campground our stay was very enjoyable. It was quiet, other campers were respectful. The bathrooms are dated but clean. There is a designated dishwashing drain to keep animals away from the campsites."
Disconnect options: Several campgrounds near Beddington provide opportunities to truly 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!" explains Ethyn B. about Great Pond Outdoor Recreation Area.
Waterfront sites: Many campers specifically request waterfront views and access. "Spot 18 is perfect! The view is spectacular," says Jordan K. about Acadia Seashore Camping and Cabins. "The campground is small and very quiet. There are clean bathrooms and showers available."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: While many campgrounds require advance bookings, Bar Harbor Campground uses a unique first-come system. "This campground does not take reservations so you can pick whatever open site you want and if you want to extend your stay, you can. When you arrive, you get a map, find an empty site, get set-up and then go back to the office to register," explains Nancy W.
Bugs can be intense: Insect protection is essential during certain months. "Only downside was we went during black fly season, wait until they are gone to be able to enjoy it fully!" advises Ethyn B. about Great Pond Outdoor Recreation Area.
Off-season limitations: Some amenities aren't available year-round. "Shuttle doesn't run until late June. Pool is cold in June. WiFi is spotty," notes audra H. about the Bar Harbor Campground.
Privacy concerns: Campsite layout and spacing varies significantly between locations. At Machias Rips Campsite, Sarah C. observes, "The sites are spaced out nicely and there's a fair amount of shade to be had. There is also a relatively new and quite clean pit toilet available for use."
Tips for camping with families
Campground activities: Choose locations with built-in entertainment options. At the Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA, Melissa N. shares, "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."
Shelter options: Consider cabins for easier family camping with pets. "our family of four (my Husband and I and our 2 boys) stayed in a camping cabin for 5 days at the end of June. The cabin contained a queen sized bed and a set of bunk beds. It also had a private bathroom with metered shower," explains Brandy N. about Hadley's Point Campground.
Staff assistance: Campgrounds with helpful staff make family visits easier. Samantha S. recounts, "Upon arrival we checked in, in the office/store. Then a staff member lead us to our site. We have a 19 ft travel trailer and are not very experienced with backing it up. The staff member was incredible with his directions and helped me back it into a small lot that went down hill and around a corner."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RVs, finding the right size site matters. At Sunset Point Campground, Janine B. notes, "Nice level site, easy to back into. Covered table and a fire pit you can cook on. Lots of apples. They have wood, ice, and beverages for sale in office."
Dump station timing: Plan for possible wait times at busy campgrounds. "There was only one dump station for Loop B. Each RV took about 15 minutes. If you are third in line, you will be waiting," warns Rick C. about Schoodic Woods Campground.
Utility options: Various hookup combinations affect pricing. Nancy W. explains about Schoodic Woods Campground: "All sites have electric (20/30/50) and some have electric and water only reflected in cheaper prices. $36 RV with electric only sites (20/30/50 amp), $40 RV with electric and water (20/30/50 amp)."
