Cabin camping options near Blue Hill, Maine provide rustic yet comfortable lodging within easy reach of Acadia National Park and coastal attractions. Most cabin rentals in the region operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with peak availability in summer months. The region experiences cooler evening temperatures even in summer, with overnight lows often dropping into the 50s.
What to do
Lighthouse exploration: 10 minutes from Bass Harbor Campground to the iconic Bass Harbor Head Light. "It's walking distance to the Bass Harbor Head Light, and that is just beautiful. Rarely is there ample parking at the light, so walking from your site has its advantages," notes a visitor to Bass Harbor Campground.
Stargazing: Exceptional views of the night sky await at Seawall Campground. "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 one camper at Seawall Campground.
Kayaking: Launch directly from waterfront sites at Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA. "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," reports a camper.
What campers like
Private tent sites: Wooded areas at Smuggler's Den Campground provide natural separation. "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," notes a visitor to Smuggler's Den Campground.
Cabin comforts: Heat options for cooler nights are appreciated by guests. "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. Had space to prepare food as well as a microwave, fire pit, and grill for use," explains a camper at Bass Harbor Campground.
Ocean views: Waterfront cabins provide direct access to coastal areas. "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!" reports a visitor at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
What you should know
Shower options: Some campgrounds charge for showers while others include them. "Free shuttle service to Acadia and Bar Harbor available. It was quiet on the 4th if July, no fireworks in the campground," notes a guest at Hadley's Point Campground.
Tent site privacy: Varies significantly between campgrounds and specific sites. "Overall, this is a nice campground set in a slightly wooded area. Privacy between sites is lacking here - there are some sites that have a little bit of privacy between neighboring sites, and some have none at all," reports a Seawall Campground visitor.
Site selection strategy: Research specific site numbers when booking. "Campground is far enough away from Bar Harbor to avoid most of the tourists if you're looking for quiet time in the woods but close enough for a short car ride to good food, the park and Bar Harbor. Only downside were that the tent sites were incredibly close together," notes a Hadley's Point camper.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Many campgrounds feature swimming pools for kids. "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," mentions a visitor to Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Kid-friendly activities: Organized events keep children entertained. "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 a camper at Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA.
Pack layered clothing: Temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day. "We have a tiny trailer that fits in a tent site. There was really nothing to do at the campground except camp - no hikes or trails directly there. Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water," reports a Seawall Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Bring blocks as some sites require adjustment. "The site was easy to get into, and reasonably level. Lots of shade, and a steady breeze off the water. Bathrooms and showers are clean and large, though slightly aged. There is a pool, playground and laundry," notes a visitor to Narrows Too Camping Resort.
Grocery shopping: Plan ahead with supplies from larger towns. "Tip: Grab groceries in Ellsworth if you want to save $," advises a Mt Desert Narrows camper.
Island Explorer bus: Use the free shuttle to avoid parking issues. "The Island Explorer bus for Acadia National Park stops at the campground, so you have easy access without driving, if desired," explains a visitor at Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA.
