Campsite options near Bucksport, Maine extend beyond the immediate town, with locations positioned along freshwater bodies and coastal areas within a 30-mile radius. The region's camping season typically runs May through mid-October, with July and August requiring reservations weeks or months in advance. Weather varies from warm summer days reaching 75-85°F to cooler nights that often dip into the 50s even in peak season.
What to do
Kayaking from campsites: At Mount Desert Campground, visitors can rent kayaks to explore Somes Sound directly from the property. "We rented double kayaks from the front office for 2 hours and kayaked Somes Sound - it was beautiful water & amazing exploring! A bit more difficult with the ocean currents vs lake kayaking, so keep that in mind with kids," reports Whitney W.
Crabbing and marine life: Young campers particularly enjoy marine activities at Mount Desert Campground. "We purchased a crab bucket with net from the coffee shop one morning for around $10-12. It was well worth it as my kids crab gigged for HOURS off the docks every day!" shares Whitney W.
Off-season exploration: Visiting in September provides a quieter experience. "We stayed here one night in September in a Tuesday. Quiet, very few people. Had a non electric site without water and paid the same price as the state park in Camden," notes Cheryl K. about Balsam Cove Campground.
What campers like
Oceanfront camping sites: At Searsport Shores Ocean Campground, waterfront sites offer direct access to the shoreline. "We got a prime campsite right on the bay... the atmosphere is sooooo friendly and laidback. The facilities are SPOTLESS," writes Grace M. The property features a small rocky beach for exploring during low tide.
Arts and cultural activities: Unique among regional campgrounds, Searsport Shores offers unexpected cultural events. "A magical place. This place is so much more than a beautiful campground nestled among gorgeous old growth trees located right on the shore. It's also a treasure trove of arts of all kinds - fiber arts, metal sculptures, carvings, paintings, and music," explains Kathy L.
Platforms for tent camping: Several campgrounds address the region's uneven terrain with purpose-built accommodations. "Since the campground sits among the rocky and mountainous coast line, they have spent the time and money building leveled platforms for all the sites. Without the platforms, the campsites would be quite miserable," notes Melissa W. about Mount Desert Campground.
What you should know
Public shuttle transportation: Acadia National Park's Island Explorer bus system serves several campgrounds, eliminating parking concerns. "The Island Explorer bus for Acadia National Park stops at the campground, so you have easy access without driving, if desired," explains Heather C. about Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA.
Privacy varies widely: Site spacing differs dramatically between campgrounds. "The sites were a bit close together and it was very crowded. Everyone was really packed in, with no buffer between sites," reports Heather C. about Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA, while Travis A. notes Balsam Cove Campground provides "a sense of calm."
Pay showers standard: Many campgrounds, including those in Acadia National Park, charge for hot showers. At Hadley's Point Campground, "50 cents got you a hot, 7 minute shower, which was plenty of time!" according to Brandy N.
Tips for camping with families
Fenced dog areas: Pet owners find designated spaces at some properties. "There is a new dog exercise area which has water and toys and is long enough for our Labrador retriever to chase a ball," reports Nancy W. about Pumpkin Patch RV Resort.
Playground facilities: Balsam Cove Campground offers structured recreation areas. "There is a playground and a common eating area. The kids feel like they are at summer camp while here," explains Melissa N.
Activity programs: Hadley's Point Campground runs structured children's events. "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 a similar program at another regional campground.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many campgrounds near Acadia restrict larger vehicles. "Campers over 20 feet are not allowed. The sites are large however the terrain is difficult to navigate," explains Garrett D. about Mount Desert Campground. This size limitation is common at several properties on Mount Desert Island.
Seasonal considerations: Most RV campgrounds in the region close by mid-October. Pumpkin Patch RV Resort operates May 1 to October 15, with Nancy W. noting: "The staff and other campers were very friendly. Much of the population consists of seasonal campers with huge RVs and Motor Homes."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites book quickly in summer. "There is a mix of sun and shade depending on what site you are in. Our Verizon phone got good reception and our hot spot worked well. The campground wi-fi was decent at our site," reports Nancy W. about Pumpkin Patch RV Resort.
