Campgrounds near Birch Harbor offer access to both the quiet western side of Mount Desert Island and mainland Maine camping options. The area sits along the rocky coastal section of Maine's Downeast region where temperatures range from 70-80°F in summer to below freezing in winter. Most sites operate seasonally from May through October, with coastal campsites providing direct water access for kayaking and wildlife viewing.
What to do
Explore tidal areas: At Seawall Campground, visitors can easily access coastal exploring opportunities. "The sea-wall is close enough to walk to for a very pretty sunrise! The main part of the park is about a 30-45 minute drive though," notes Chuck Y. The campground's proximity to natural features makes it ideal for tide pool exploration.
Kayak from your campsite: Many coastal campgrounds offer direct water access. Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls provides sites where you can launch right from camp. "We could launch our kayaks directly from the site. (If you don't have a waterfront site, there are 2 water access areas that anyone can launch from). The kayaking from the park is very good, with protected access into Mt. Desert Narrows," explains Heather C.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "We went swimming at their beach and saw a seal!" reports Michael K. about Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls. The rocky coastline provides habitat for seals, seabirds, and occasionally porpoises.
What campers like
Outdoor showers: Several campgrounds feature outdoor shower facilities that receive high praise. "The CG showers are located at the office with two enclosed outdoor showers and one indoor shower. Hubby used the outdoor shower and thought it was great," writes Deborah W. about Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls. These facilities provide a refreshing way to clean up after a day of outdoor activities.
Quiet locations: HTR Acadia (formerly Somes Sound View) offers a peaceful camping experience. "The entire staff during my 6 nights was very friendly. I stayed at two different sites during my stay due to my first one being reserved after my fourth night. Both sites were very nice. The sites were equipped with hammock trees, fire rings, picnic tables, and even running water and electricity!" shares Sam L.
Unique accommodations: For those seeking glamping near Birch Harbor, Maine's western Mount Desert Island offers distinctive options. "I surprised my husband with the Teepee- we were not disappointed! A huge Teepee with a very comfortable queen size bed- a couch, table, area animal rugs, coffee maker and a fan if needed," explains Cheryl R. about Cottonwood Camping & RV Park.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: While most campgrounds accept reservations, some operate differently. "The Bar Harbor 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.
Site differences within campgrounds: At Lamoine State Park Campground, "The sites are in rows, from the top of the campground down to the water. Sites at the top are grassier with more sun, and the sites near the water have more shade. Many sites are not flat and require significant leveling if in an RV," reports Heather C.
Limited shower facilities: Many campgrounds have restricted shower access or metered showers. "Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water," notes Karla J.B. about her stay at Seawall Campground. Always check facility details before booking if showers are important to you.
Tips for camping with families
Affordable activities: Free and low-cost activities abound near campgrounds. "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 Melissa N. about Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA.
Cabin options for easier family camping: For families new to camping or wanting more comfort, cabins provide a good alternative to tents. "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.
Transportation considerations: The Island Explorer shuttle serves many campgrounds. "The shuttle bus takes 50 minutes to get to Bar Harbor, by car it's closer to 30," notes Karla J.B. This free service helps families avoid parking challenges in congested areas during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven sites. "Not all sites full hookup but it's coming next year. Would stay again," mentions audra H. about Bar Harbor Campground. When booking, ask specific questions about site levelness and hookup locations.
Unique check-in procedures: Some campgrounds use uncommon systems. "When you arrive, you get a map, find an empty site, get set-up and then go back to the office to register. Once you're in the park if you want a different site that has a better view or FHU's, the best thing to do is drive or walk around the section you are interested in," explains Nancy W.
Consider size limitations: Many coastal Maine campgrounds have tight spaces. "Very very great staff!! 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," shares Samantha S. about her experience at Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA.
