Ellsworth sits at the gateway to Mount Desert Island, with campgrounds positioned along the coastal inlets and sheltered coves of Maine's rocky shores. Most sites in this region sit between 10-150 feet in elevation, offering protection from coastal winds while maintaining water access. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F, with foggy mornings common in June and early July, especially at waterfront locations.
What to Do
Kayaking at low tide: Hadley's Point Campground's water access points allow for spectacular paddling, but timing is critical. "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," explains a camper at Narrows Too Camping Resort.
Stargazing on the coast: Drive to darker areas of the coast for unobstructed night sky views. "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," notes a visitor at Seawall Campground.
Blueberry picking: Many campgrounds have wild blueberries growing on-site during mid-summer. "Mid July to Mid August free blueberries campside," shares a camper about Bar Harbor Campground, making for a perfect free activity between hikes.
What Campers Like
Free island transportation: The Island Explorer shuttle stops at multiple campgrounds, eliminating parking hassles. "The shuttle has a bike rack so you can bring your bike and pets are allowed," notes a reviewer at Bar Harbor Campground.
Sunrise watching spots: Oceanfront sites provide front-row seats to dramatic sunrises. "There were great sunrises and sunsets at the park. The water access areas has a number chairs for sitting and relaxing," shares a visitor to Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA.
Less crowded alternatives: When Acadia campgrounds are full, state parks offer excellent alternatives. "If Acadia is full... this state park is a great alternative! My favorite part is the beach! And 30 mins from Acadia," notes a camper at Lamoine State Park.
What You Should Know
Shower logistics: Many campgrounds have pay showers. "Showers are 25 cents/5 minutes," reports a visitor to Bar Harbor Campground, while others note: "Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water" at Seawall Campground.
Site selection strategies: Some campgrounds have unique booking systems. "Once you arrive, you get a map, find an empty site, get set-up and then go back to the office to register," explains a camper at Bar Harbor Campground.
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds have mineral-heavy water. "There is defined an issue with the water. When we turned in the tap the water ran brown," notes a visitor to Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Weather considerations: Coastal fog can impact morning visibility and activities. "We would definitely stay here again, just earlier in the season so we could enjoy the views better in bar harbor. It was too foggy!" shares an RV camper at Mt Desert Narrows.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer scheduled activities for children. "KOA delivered what it promised... It is a very family friendly camp, with lots of activities for kids," shares a visitor about Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA.
Site privacy factors: Consider sites away from main areas for family privacy. "We tent camp, without power, so we are way out back. No car noise, Private, a bit of a walk to the showers and bathrooms but the privacy is worth it," notes a parent about Blackwoods Campground.
Playground access: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Ellsworth offer playgrounds alongside water access. "The kids loved playing on the playground and going down to the water at low tide," writes a family who stayed at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many oceanfront sites require significant leveling. "Some sites are not flat and require significant leveling if in an RV," cautions a visitor to Lamoine State Park.
Full hookup availability: Not all waterfront sites offer sewer connections. "Come to find out none of the oceanfront sites have sewer. They do have a honey wagon that will pump you out on Mondays and Fridays for 25$ a pop," warns an RVer staying at Mt Desert Narrows.
Backup campground options: Keep alternatives in mind when traveling during peak season. "We originally booked at Narrows Too but they had to cancel the morning we were scheduled to arrive due to a water issue. Booked at Timberland as a last minute option and was pleasantly surprised!" reports a camper who found Timberland Acres RV Park to be quieter and less expensive than other options.
