Campgrounds near Cranberry Isles provide access to Maine's coastal islands with elevations rarely exceeding 150 feet. The Cranberry Isles include five islands stretching across 2,726 acres of land surrounded by the cold waters of the Gulf of Maine. Water temperature averages 52-60°F in summer months, making waterfront camping chilly during evening hours.
What to do
Kayaking from waterfront sites: Launch directly from West Bay Acadia RV Campground where guests appreciate the waterfront access. "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 one visitor. Remember tidal changes affect paddling times.
Explore Schoodic Peninsula: Located 10 minutes from West Bay Acadia RV Campground, this less-crowded section of Acadia offers similar natural beauty. "Just ten minutes away is the Schoodic Woods section of Acadia—a less busy and equally beautiful area of the National Park," reports a camper.
Winter Harbor ferry trips: Stay at Mainstay Cottages & RV Park for easy access to the Winter Harbor ferry. "Located on Winter Harbor, great views. Steps away from the small ferry that goes to Bar Harbor and a few minutes to Schoodic Peninsula," explains one visitor. The ferry runs daily from mid-June to September.
What campers like
Waterfront sunrises: Early risers at rv sites near Cranberry Isles appreciate dawn views. "Make sure you wake up early and head down to the point because the sunrises are spectacular," writes a visitor to West Bay Acadia RV Campground. The sunrise times range from 4:45am in summer to 6:45am in fall.
Dark sky viewing: The certified dark sky park at West Bay Acadia limits light pollution. "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. Meteor showers peak in August during the Perseids.
Private wooded campsites: Greenlaw's RV Park & Campground offers spacious sites with natural barriers. "This is a small, wooded campground with large private sites. They are working to improve the campground everyday," states one camper. Another adds: "We stayed is site U1 which was fantastic. Last site on the deadend road and was very secluded."
What you should know
Island tide variations: RV camping areas near Cranberry Isles experience 10-12 foot tides. "You have about a four-hour window to paddle because of the tides. You will be left walking across muddy soft clam flats if you are not mindful of the 10-12 foot tides," warns a visitor at Narrows Too Camping Resort.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have mineral-heavy water systems. "There is defined an issue with the water. When we turned in the tap the water ran brown," reports one camper about Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort. Consider bringing drinking water or water filters.
Seasonal pricing: Rates fluctuate significantly throughout the season. "Prices range from the $30's to over $100 depending on where you want to camp," notes a reviewer about Narrows Too. Premium oceanfront sites cost more than inland locations, with some approaching $165/night during peak season.
Winter Harbor location benefits: The quieter side of Mount Desert Island offers less congestion. "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," explains a visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Consider campground activities: Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA provides daily programming for children. "My daughter begs to camp here. 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 one parent.
Choose campgrounds based on amenities: Not all campgrounds offer child-friendly facilities. "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," advises a visitor about Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA.
Navigate crowded sites: Be prepared for close camping quarters during peak season. "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."
Tips from RVers
Big rig access: Timberland Acres RV Park accommodates larger motorhomes with proper hookups. "Large number of LARGE (100' Plus) pull thru sites. Quite place. Wal Mart, Gas stations, Cell phone stores, Lobster pounds very close by," notes one RVer about facilities near Cranberry Isles.
Site selection considerations: Front-facing sites may have noise issues. "I would recommend requesting a site other than 66 or 67 because it backs right up to the water pump system for the RV park, which is quite loud when the pump turns on and off," advises a Timberland Acres visitor.
Utilize local shuttles: Transportation options connect campgrounds to attractions. "The Island Explorer bus for Acadia National Park stops at the campground, so you have easy access without driving, if desired," mentions a Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA visitor, reducing the need to move larger vehicles.
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