The Schoodic Peninsula section of Acadia National Park offers several camping spots near Bernard, Maine for visitors seeking a quieter alternative to the main park area. Located on the western side of Mount Desert Island at an elevation of approximately 150 feet, Bernard provides convenient access to both the "quiet side" of Acadia and the more developed eastern section. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-75°F with foggy mornings common in June and July, creating unique camping conditions across the region's mix of wooded and waterfront sites.
What to do
Hike directly from camp: At Blackwoods Campground, trails connect directly to the broader park network. "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! We had to drive offsite to showers, though," explains Roxanne R., highlighting the accessibility despite some facility limitations.
Explore Ship Harbor Trail: Seawall Campground puts you within walking distance of this popular coastal trail. "Definitely check out ship harbor trail and the seawall, both very close and walking distance from the campground. There is also a shuttlebus that runs from the campground all day," advises Laura L., who appreciated the convenient location.
Kayak Somes Sound: Water access makes Mount Desert Campground perfect for paddling. "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," notes Whitney W., emphasizing both the beauty and challenges of ocean kayaking.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Tent campers appreciate the seclusion at Smuggler's Den Campground. "Our host was very understanding about what we were looking for and found us the perfect site- on a dead end overlooking a mountain side. It had an awesome pit and a bunch of trees to hang our hammocks," shares Molly G., who found privacy despite initial concerns about the campground's amenities.
Waterfront camping: The ocean proximity is a major draw for many visitors. "My waterfront site 344 was terrific - gorgeous view, and one of the larger waterfront spots. We could launch our kayaks directly from the site. The kayaking from the park is very good, with protected access into Mt. Desert Nartows," reports Heather C. from Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA, though noting that waterfront sites get crowded at sunset.
Stargazing access: The dark skies create perfect viewing conditions. "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," explains Kyle R. from Seawall Campground, showing how natural features enhance the camping experience beyond daytime activities.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance planning while others don't. "The Bar Harbor Campground is a first come first serve campground. Show up find an empty spot. Pay for it and it's yours," explains Celeste M., detailing how the unusual system lets you upgrade sites during your stay if better ones become available.
Shower facilities: Most national park campgrounds lack showers. "The 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!" shares Dana S. about Blackwoods, highlighting the trade-off between basic facilities and other benefits.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts camping experience significantly. "Bathrooms are clean but some showers don't have moveable shower head and that's tricky depending on your height. Hot h2o though and great water pressure," notes audra H., addressing practical concerns beyond just campground amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: HTR Acadia (formerly Somes Sound View Campground) offers swimming options beyond natural waters. "Great campground. Staff is helpful, sites are clean. Definitely a tent friendly place. 90% of the sites are well shaded, and most have plenty of room. Great pool and other facilities," writes IAN P., emphasizing the family-friendly amenities.
Wildlife watching: Kids enjoy the natural entertainment options. "The BEST part of this campground for our family was Somes Sound and the floating docks. 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!" Whitney W. shares about Mount Desert Campground, describing an inexpensive activity that kept children entertained.
Transportation options: The Island Explorer shuttle system makes getting around with kids easier. "The Island Explorer bus for Acadia National Park stops at the campground, so you have easy access without driving, if desired," mentions Heather C., noting the convenience for families wanting to avoid parking hassles.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: RVers should research carefully before booking. "We have a tiny trailer that fits in a tent site. But when reserving online, being unfamiliar with the campground, we were prompted to enter the total length of trailer + vehicle. That put us in loop C with huge RVs much closer together than the other loops," cautions Karla J. B. from Seawall Campground.
Hookup limitations: Full services aren't available at all campgrounds. "Sites are not made for large RVs. They can fit smaller camper trailers and pop-ups, but that's about it. It actually adds to the campground ambience as it keeps things quiet and more of an outdoor camping experience!" explains Whitney W., noting how this restriction actually improves the camping atmosphere.
Leveling considerations: Many sites require preparation. "All sights are decently leveled having some slight grades for drainage so no sights are flooded," notes Seth W. about Smuggler's Den, providing practical information about site engineering that affects RV setup.
