Campgrounds near Corea, Maine offer access to coastal areas with views of the Atlantic Ocean and Mount Desert Island. At elevations ranging from 10 to 200 feet above sea level, these campgrounds experience coastal fog that can roll in unexpectedly during summer mornings. The region receives approximately 46 inches of annual rainfall, with August averaging the warmest temperatures around 75°F.
What to do
Explore tidepools and coastline: Ship Harbor Trail near Bass Harbor Campground provides easy water access. "It was so nice after a full day of hiking and biking to wash off in a warm shower. The proximity to Ship Harbor and the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse was great for catching sunrises and sunsets," notes Geneva H.
Visit local landmarks: The Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse stands within walking distance of some campgrounds. "It's a short walk to the Bass Harbor Lighthouse, on the quiet side of the island, and has clean accommodations. There's nowhere on the island we'd rather go!" shares Ashley S.
Kayak the protected waters: Launch directly from waterfront sites at Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls for gentle paddling. "Site number 4 was great it was tucked away a bit yet still had a nearby bathroom and a 3 minute walk to the seashore which was beautiful!" reports Andrew B., who also mentioned seeing wildlife during their paddle.
Stargaze from open areas: Find unobstructed night skies at secluded campsites. "Walk down to the beach just outside seawall on a clear night for some of the best stargazing you'll ever see," recommends Kyle R. from his experience at Seawall Campground.
What campers like
Free shuttle access: The Island Explorer bus provides transportation around Mount Desert Island. "The campground is on the Island Explorer bus loop, which is the bus that takes you all around Mount Desert Island, to Acadia, and Bar Harbor. We used the bus almost every day, and it was super helpful because you do not want to try and find parking in Acadia in the peak season," explains Jenna L. about her stay at Hadley's Point Campground.
Affordable alternatives to Bar Harbor: Campgrounds outside the main tourist areas offer better rates. "Great campground located close to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. The campground does not take reservations so you can pick whatever open site you want and if you want to extend your stay, you can," shares Nancy W. about The Bar Harbor Campground.
Waterfront sites: Ocean views and water access rank highly among camper reviews. "Our waterfront site 344 was terrific - gorgeous view, and one of the larger waterfront spots. We could launch our kayaks directly from the site," notes Heather C. about Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses consistently receive positive mentions. "The bathrooms were very clean showers are 25 cents/5 minutes. There is a really nice large swimming pool perched right along the water, nice little nature trails/dog walking areas," mentions Nancy W.
What you should know
No reservation options: Some campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis. "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," explains Alison R. about her stay at Hadley's Point.
Coastal weather patterns: Fog can appear suddenly, even during summer months. "We stayed four nights at Seawall and were rather impressed with the size and quality of both the campground area but also the bathrooms. We stayed in loop D, a tent loop, and it was very well organized and easy to navigate," notes Maggie K. from her experience at Seawall Campground.
Site privacy varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options than others. "This large campground over looks Frenchmens bay. Large pool. Inexpensive laundry. Blueberry fields free to pick July to August. Pay showers," explains Tammy H.
External shower facilities: Some campgrounds require traveling to shower facilities. "The fact that the closest showers were around 10 minutes away and cost a decent amount was a little disappointing but livable," notes Maggie K.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Kid-friendly amenities vary between locations. "The campground has a pool, a laundry facility, and a main office. Nearby are restaurants and mini-golf," explains Gary G. about his stay at The Bar Harbor Campground.
Consider unique accommodations: Alternative glamping near Corea, Maine includes unique structures. "We stayed in the Potting Shed cabin for 3 nights. Bathroom was clean and had plenty of sinks, toilets and showers. Water was hot for showers and there was a nice dressing area," shares Cheryl K. about her experience at Bass Harbor Campground.
Visit during the off-season: Campgrounds become less crowded after Labor Day. "There are both tent and rv sites, which are intermingled in the campground. There is a bath house with showers and flush toilets. The toilet area was clean and was maintained on a regular basis," notes Heather C. about her stay at Lamoine State Park Campground.
Pack for variable weather: Coastal conditions can change rapidly. "It poured all night so we took off pretty early. There is so much to see in the area that you won't want to spend much time hanging around in one spot," advises Joshua B.
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Many campgrounds have tight turns or limited space. "Roads in the park are paved but some corners can be a little tight for big-rigs, best to unhitch your tow car up front in case you have to back up," advises Nancy W.
Select sites strategically: Waterfront sites often book quickly. "The sites are spacious, and the campground is generally quiet. 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," explains Ashlee L.
Book unique glamping options early: Luxury camping near Corea, Maine gets reserved months in advance. "Hidden gem. Rustic, quiet and affordable. Super friendly owners. Cabins are awesome!" says Alessia D. about her experience at Quietside Campground.
Utilize dump stations: Full hookup sites are limited. "All different types of sites are available from FHU, electric/water, or privative sites. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. There are some sections that are nicely wooded which is great for the shade in the summer and to add a little privacy," shares Nancy W.
