Cabin camping near Ellsworth, Maine offers convenient access to coastal experiences and Mount Desert Island. Located about 26 miles east of Bangor, Ellsworth sits at approximately 100 feet above sea level with average summer highs of 75-80°F and nighttime lows around 55°F. Autumn cabin rentals require advance planning as temperatures drop to 45-60°F by October, with most campgrounds closing by mid-October.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Cabins at Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA provide access to nearby wilderness areas. According to one visitor, "The Island Explorer bus for Acadia National Park stops at the campground, so you have easy access without driving, if desired."
Kayaking from cabin locations: Many cabin sites offer direct water access for paddling experiences. A guest at Balsam Cove Campground notes, "Canoes and kayaks can be rented to enjoy the water and scenery, while the crowds of Bar Harbor can be reached in slightly less than an hour."
Stargazing sessions: Cabin sites away from Bar Harbor's light pollution offer spectacular night sky viewing. A visitor at Seawall Campground mentions, "For stargazers, the short walk across the street to the beach will give you some unbelievable views of the milky way when the night is at peak darkness."
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Many cabin sites maintain excellent sanitation standards. A camper at Hadley's Point Campground reports, "Very clean bathrooms. Would stay again!" This cleanliness extends to their cabin accommodations.
Budget-friendly options: Cabins vary widely in price and amenities. A visitor to Smuggler's Den Campground notes, "This campground has every possible kind of sight, RV, pop-up, tent, Cabin, Rustic Cabin, and tents on platforms. All sights are decently leveled having some slight grades for drainage so no sights are flooded."
Heated pool amenities: Many cabin rentals include access to swimming facilities. A reviewer states, "They have a heated swimming pool. Best of all, the campground was on the Island Explorer bus route, which is a series of busses that take you to different areas of Acadia National Park and into the surrounding towns."
What you should know
Seasonal availability limitations: Most cabin facilities operate within specific timeframes. According to HTR Acadia's information, cabins typically open in mid-May and close by mid-October, with limited availability during peak summer months.
Proximity to stores: Stock up on supplies in Ellsworth before arriving at your cabin. One visitor advises, "Grab groceries in Ellsworth if you want to save $."
Variable cell reception: Connectivity can be unreliable depending on location. A camper notes, "Due to location, wifi signal is poor, and Verizon and T-Mobile are so so at different times of the day if you need to be connected."
Tips for camping with families
Playground considerations: Several cabin campgrounds offer child-friendly amenities. A visitor to Narrows Too Camping Resort states, "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."
Activity scheduling: Plan for daily excursions with children. One parent shares, "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."
Cabin selection strategy: Book family-friendly cabin sites early. A camper recommends, "Perfect location for those traveling with small kids, as it was just a stone's throw from both the bathhouse and playground."
Tips from RVers
Water and power considerations: Cabin rentals offer varied utility setups. An experienced camper notes, "The RV spots are a bit narrow, but have a nice firepit with grill and good picknick bench!"
Booking preferences: Secure your preferred cabin style and location early. A reviewer advises, "You reserve a type of site, and then for an additional fee can reserve a specific site, if desired."
Off-season advantages: Consider shoulder season for better rates and fewer crowds. A late-season visitor mentioned, "We stayed here for 5 nights in August, and loved it for so many reasons. Our campsite had a fire ring and picnic table and room for our car. It felt a bit secluded from our neighbors thanks to the trees."
