Cabin camping near Bernard, Maine provides access to Mount Desert Island's "quiet side" while still being close to Acadia National Park. The western side of the island has a more relaxed atmosphere than the eastern section, with temperatures typically 5-10°F cooler than inland Maine during summer months. Coastal fog can roll in quickly during mornings, especially in June when water temperatures remain cold.
What to do
Kayaking from shoreline access: Bass Harbor Campground offers convenient water access with sites about a 10-minute walk to Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse. "It was so nice after a full day of hiking and biking to wash off in a warm shower. The proximity to Ship Harbor and the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse was great for catching sunrises and sunsets," notes a visitor at Bass Harbor Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The western side of Mount Desert Island offers excellent night sky viewing with less light pollution than Bar Harbor. At Seawall Campground, a camper mentioned, "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." Another camper added, "The night was clear, the stars out, and the sounds of the Atlantic nearby made a superb camping experience."
Hiking trail connections: Some campgrounds connect directly to Acadia trails, reducing the need to drive and find parking. "Hiking trails connect to the back of the campground for access to Beech Mtn and Echo Lake beach," reports a camper at Smuggler's Den Campground, making it easy to explore without moving your vehicle.
What campers like
Heated swimming options: Several campgrounds offer heated pools for when ocean waters prove too cold for swimming. At Smuggler's Den Campground, "Camp store was well-stocked, playground and pool looked brand new, and the bath house, while old, was among the brightest and cleanest I've ever seen in a private campground."
Platform tent sites: Some campgrounds offer wooden platforms for tent camping, providing a level, dry surface. A camper at Quietside Campground noted, "We had a site with a wooden platform that was perfectly level. There was enough tree cover that we didn't get soaked during the rain."
Ocean views: Waterfront sites provide spectacular views but book quickly. "Tricky parking but wonderful to have the views to myself and one other neighbor. Beach front, able to swim and SUP right from the campsite. Amazing fire pit," reports a visitor at Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Some campgrounds have no showers while others have coin-operated or free options. "Showers were clean and the woman at the front was friendly and helpful. The best part was the hot showers. It was so nice after a full day of hiking and biking to wash off in a warm shower," notes a Hadley's Point Campground visitor.
Reservation timing matters: Popular cabin sites book months in advance, especially waterfront options. "We got a waterfront lot but the brush is blocking most of view. The park is lovely and we look forward to what we discover!" mentions a visitor at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Free transportation: The Island Explorer shuttle connects many campgrounds to Acadia and surrounding towns. "Free bus ride around the loop and to the Schoodic point," notes a camper at Schoodic Woods Campground, allowing you to leave your car behind and avoid parking challenges.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly cabin options: Multiple bunk bed configurations work well for families. "My husband and I stayed here for our honeymoon to Acadia National Park! We stayed in a small cabin and it was perfect for our stay. Weather was a bit cold when we were there (October 2018), but there was a space heater," shares a camper at Bass Harbor Campground.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds to help kids burn energy after hiking. A visitor at Schoodic Woods Campground mentioned, "Great nightly ranger programs. Easy access to trails and bike paths," providing entertainment for children beyond typical outdoor activities.
Distance to swimming areas: Check whether water access requires driving or is walkable from your cabin. "10-15 from downtown Bar Harbor and the gorgeous Acadia NP. The kids loved playing on the playground and going down to the water at low tide," reports a visitor at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Power reliability: Many cabins offer electric hookups, but capacity varies. A Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA visitor noted, "Not all campsites had full hookup and we were told that one of the dump stations worked, but as we were leaving, we realized it didn't." Verify your cabin's electrical capacity before booking.
Site layouts: Cabin areas may be designed differently than RV sections. "All sites have electric (20/30/50) and some have electric and water only reflected in cheaper prices," a Schoodic Woods visitor explained, showing the variety of available options.
Off-season considerations: Cabins with heating provide options into fall when temperatures drop. "My husband and I stayed here for our honeymoon to Acadia National Park! Weather was a bit cold when we were there (October 2018), but there was a space heater," shares a Bass Harbor Campground visitor, highlighting the extended season possibilities for cabin camping near Bernard.
