Camping near Ellsworth, Maine offers convenient access to the region's rocky coastline and forested landscapes, with most sites sitting between 30 and 150 feet above sea level. Unlike inland areas of Maine, the coastal influence moderates temperatures, keeping summer evenings cooler around 55-65°F even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Many campgrounds remain open from mid-May through mid-October, with peak season water temperatures reaching only 55-65°F.
What to do
Kayaking Somes Sound: Mount Desert Campground offers kayak rentals directly from their waterfront location. Visitors can explore the protected waters with convenience. "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," notes Whitney W.
Crabbing from docks: Children enjoy catching crabs using simple equipment available 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," reports a camper who enjoyed the activity with their family.
Exploring Schoodic Peninsula: When Acadia becomes crowded, this less-visited section offers similar coastal beauty without the crowds. "The location is an easy drive for downtown for Bar Harbor, North East Harbor and South West Harbor," mentions Heather C. of Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA, highlighting how accessible different parts of the region are from Ellsworth-area campgrounds.
What campers like
Free shuttle service: Hadley's Point Campground connects visitors to area attractions without driving. "The best thing about this campground is it's 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," shares Jenna L.
Oceanfront views: Bar Harbor Campground provides sites with direct water views at reasonable rates. "I first had a tent space facing the ocean $36. Very close to the Pool for one night. Next morning I found an electric and water spot $40 close by and moved," explains Celeste M. about their flexible camping experience.
Quiet atmosphere away from crowds: Lamoine State Park Campground offers a peaceful alternative to busier options. "Lamoine State Park is a great option if you want to be close to Acadia but away from the crowds," states Heather C., who appreciated the park's tranquil setting while still being just 30 minutes from Acadia National Park.
What you should know
No reservations at some campgrounds: Bar Harbor Campground operates on a first-come basis with a unique system. "Show up find an empty spot. Pay for it and it's yours...Next morning I found an electric and water spot close by and moved. Had great bathroom with clean showers near by that cost 25¢ for 5 minutes," explains a camper describing the flexible approach.
Tide considerations for water activities: Water access varies dramatically with tides at coastal campgrounds. "The kayaking from the park is very good, with protected access into Mt. Desert Narrows," notes a Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA visitor, but other campgrounds warn about 10-12 foot tides that create mudflats at low tide.
Limited tent sites at RV-focused campgrounds: Many campgrounds prioritize RVs with fewer tent options. "This is mostly geared towards RV campers which means more noise and the sites are pretty close together," reports Andrew R. about Timberland Acres RV Park, though he still rated his tent camping experience positively.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Hadley's Point Campground offers play areas for children after hiking days. "We noticed lots of families with children staying in the cabins area. The campground itself had a heated swimming pool. Best of all, the campground was on the Island Explorer bus route," shares Brandy N., highlighting the family-friendly amenities.
Kid-friendly activities: Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA organizes regular entertainment for younger campers. "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," explains Melissa N. about the simple activities her daughter enjoyed.
Bathhouse convenience: When camping with children, clean facilities make a difference. "The bathrooms and bath houses are extremely clean," notes Bradley S. about Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA, while Blackwoods Campground visitors appreciate the designated dishwashing drains that "keep animals away from the campsites."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require equipment for leveling. "Many sites are not flat and require significant leveling if in an rv," warns a Lamoine State Park visitor, while Mount Desert Campground provides platforms to help with uneven terrain.
Size restrictions: Several campgrounds limit RV length. "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, making it important to verify size limitations before booking.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dump stations. "There is NO dump station located at the campground however a few miles down the road, there is a campground that allows you to use theirs for a $20.00 fee," notes a visitor to Mount Desert Campground, providing important information for planning longer stays.
