RV campgrounds near Brewer, Maine offer camping options 15-60 minutes from Acadia National Park. Most operate from May through mid-October to accommodate Maine's seasonal weather patterns, with fall color viewing particularly popular in late September. Winter camping is uncommon with most facilities closing after Columbus Day weekend.
What to do
Dark sky viewing: West Bay Acadia RV Campground maintains a certified dark sky park environment. "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," notes a reviewer at West Bay Acadia RV Campground.
Hiking local trails: Many campgrounds offer nearby hiking options beyond Acadia. "The campsite has a nice pond attached... We went at the end of September to visit Acadia National Park and the foliage was Beautiful! It wasn't even at its peak. The campsite is surrounded by beautiful trees," reports a camper at Patten Pond Camping Resort.
Water recreation: Access to both ocean and lake activities exists at several locations. At Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort, "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."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Shoreline locations provide Maine coastal experiences. "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!" commented a visitor at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Privacy between sites: Well-spaced campsites remain important to visitors. At Greenlaw's RV Park & Campground, "This is a small, wooded campground with large private sites. They are working to improve the campground everyday. The area is remote, services are around but limited."
Lobster dinners: Fresh seafood access appeals to many campers. "You can also get lobster from the camp store (cooked or live)," notes a visitor at Timberland Acres RV Park. Another camper reports, "Live lobster can be bought off the dock at the nearby town of Corea."
What you should know
Tidal considerations: Ocean access varies significantly with tides. At West Bay Acadia RV Campground, "Just make sure you paddle around high tide or else you will be slogging your watercraft through a soft mucky clam flat."
Bathroom facilities vary: Not all campgrounds provide full bathroom amenities. "There is no bathhouse so all units must be self-contained," notes a West Bay Acadia visitor, while others offer clean facilities - "Showers & bathhouse was clean and showers were some of the best I've had on a campground. Good water pressure & hot," reports a Timberland Acres camper.
Remote locations: Some campgrounds have limited services nearby. At Mainstay Cottages & RV Park, "Very small RV site. Located on Winter Harbor, great views. Steps away from the small ferry that goes to Bar Harbor and a few minutes to Schoodic Peninsula. Couple of nice restaurants close by."
Tips for camping with families
Campground atmosphere varies: Some locations better suit families than others. "This campground caters more to adults and does not have too much for kids to do. Most of the campers were seasonals whose campsites were well-kept and they were quiet," reports a camper at Pumpkin Patch RV Resort.
Dog-friendly options: Many campgrounds accommodate pets with specific amenities. At Pumpkin Patch RV Resort, "There is a new dog exercise area which has water and toys and is long enough for our Labrador retriever to chase a ball."
Community activities: Some parks organize social events. "The park organizes a lot of group activities including pot lucks, lobster shore dinners, BBQ feast, and cold beverages offered during Friday Happy Hours," notes a visitor at Moorings Oceanfront RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Water quality concerns: Some locations experience water issues. One camper at Mt Desert Narrows notes, "There is defined an issue with the water. When we turned in the tap the water ran brown."
Site selection strategy: Selecting the right site can make a significant difference. "Worked out perfectly for us. Close to Acadia NP. Large number of LARGE (100' Plus) pull thru sites," reports a Timberland Acres visitor. Another notes, "Waterfront sites are very expensive and very close together. Also, while the tide is out it's just a gross area of mud, muck, and rocks."
Rental options: Those without RVs can find accommodations. "It also has apartments with bathrooms as well as small cottages without bathrooms. It is a full service RV campsite so that is always convenient," explains a Patten Pond visitor.