RV campgrounds near Birch Harbor, Maine provide convenient access to the Schoodic Peninsula section of Acadia National Park. Located on the eastern side of Frenchman Bay, this area receives an average annual precipitation of 47.1 inches with summer temperatures typically ranging from 55-75°F. Waterfront camping options span from full-service RV parks with hookups to more rustic accommodations where tidal changes can significantly impact water access.
What to do
Kayaking at low tide: Launch directly from West Bay Acadia RV Campground where guests can enjoy protected paddling experiences. "There is a nice path leading to an overlook and down to the water which is tidal. There is a beautiful cleared spot at the waters edge with a swing so you can enjoy the view and watch the tides (and seals come and go)," notes a visitor who appreciates the marine wildlife viewing opportunities.
Visit Schoodic Peninsula: Located just 10 minutes from Gouldsboro campgrounds, this less-crowded section of Acadia National Park offers granite shorelines and hiking trails. A camper at Mainstay Cottages & RV Park reports, "If you're looking for a camp site close to Acadia without the crowd, look to MainStay in Winter Harbor. About an hours drive to the main Acadia but just 5 minutes to the Schoodic Peninsula."
Stargazing opportunities: The dark skies in this region allow for excellent celestial viewing. "Recently added is a short nature trail and off leash dog park," mentions a West Bay Acadia visitor who appreciates the certified dark sky park where "campers are asked to turn outside lights off so there is no light noise to interfere with the beautiful sky full of stars, planets, and meteor showers."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Oceanfront sites provide distinctive Maine coastal views. A visitor to Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA shares, "Our 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 Narrows."
Proximity to attractions: Location relative to Acadia National Park often determines campground selection. A guest at Timberland Acres RV Park notes, "This place is a hidden gem. We originally booked at Narrows Too but they had to cancel the morning we were scheduled to arrive due to a water issue. It's about 15-20 mins to the park. We also saved about $120 overall since most of the campgrounds in the park are more expensive."
Quieter atmosphere: Many campers seek alternatives to the crowded Bar Harbor area. "If you are looking for a quiet spot near Acadia park this is it," states a Mainstay Cottages visitor who appreciated the peaceful setting of the small 9-site park, while another camper at Timberland Acres commented, "This place is so quiet. The bathrooms/showers were very clean. Everyone is friendly and most campers are seasonal."
What you should know
Tidal considerations: Water access varies dramatically throughout the day at coastal campgrounds. "You will be left walking across muddy soft clam flats if you are not mindful of the 10-12 foot tides," warns a reviewer at Narrows Too Camping Resort, highlighting the practical challenges of waterfront camping in this region.
Space constraints: Site dimensions and privacy levels differ significantly between parks. A Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA camper cautions, "My challenge with the KOA is the sites were so close together and it was very crowded. Everyone was really packed in, with no buffer between sites. The 339-342 sites were literally bumper to bumper."
Seasonal closures: Most facilities operate from May through mid-October only. At Narrows Too Camping Resort, a guest appreciates that the "park staff is very accommodating and will let you move sites if you decide you prefer something different," but advises that "all sites have full-hookup and cable. The wifi was hit or miss."
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Available at select campgrounds for children's entertainment. A visitor to Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort shares, "The kids loved playing on the playground and going down to the water at low tide. There is a kayak launch as well, and pool, but both were closed since we came in at the end of season."
Free transportation: The Island Explorer shuttle connects campgrounds with park destinations. "The Island Explorer bus for Acadia National Park stops at the campground, so you have easy access without driving, if desired," reports a Bar Harbor KOA visitor, highlighting this convenient transportation option during peak season.
Kid-friendly amenities: Not all campgrounds offer equal family facilities. A reviewer at Narrows Too cautions, "I would primarily recommend this campsite for retirees and couples without children. The park doesn't offer many kid-friendly amenities beyond the pool, so families with young children might find it lacking in entertainment options."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many waterfront sites require additional equipment for proper setup. "The site was easy to get into, and reasonably level," notes one camper at Mt Desert Narrows, while another visitor highlights a limitation: "I thought I had full hookups. Come to find out none of the oceanfront sites have sewer. They do have a honey wagon that will pump you out on Mondays and Fridays for $25 a pop."
Grocery shopping strategy: Stock up before reaching Mount Desert Island to save money. A Mt Desert Narrows camper advises, "Grab groceries in Ellsworth if you want to save $. 10-15 from downtown Bar Harbor and the gorgeous Acadia NP."
Big rig accessibility: Several parks accommodate larger RVs with designated areas. "Large number of LARGE (100' Plus) pull thru sites," reports a Timberland Acres visitor, adding that "Roads are paved. Worked out perfectly for us."
