The Franklin, Maine region provides access to diverse camping experiences within a 45-minute radius, spanning from rocky coastal sites with 10-12 foot tidal changes to inland forest settings. Most Franklin-area campgrounds sit between 100-250 feet elevation, with local microclimates creating temperature differences of up to 15°F between coastal and inland sites. Summer nighttime temperatures can drop into the 40s even during July and August, requiring campers to pack layers regardless of daytime forecasts.
What to do
Kayaking in Somes Sound: Mount Desert Campground offers kayak rentals directly from their floating docks. "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," explains Whitney W.
Hiking less-crowded trails: The Schoodic Peninsula section of Acadia offers similarly beautiful terrain with fewer visitors. "Schoodic Peninsula which is the quieter side section of Acadia National Park but no less breathtaking. Here you get to enjoy the hiking and biking trails, amazing coastal scenery, quaint towns, and a peaceful campground," notes Nancy W. about Schoodic Woods Campground.
Low-tide beach exploration: Many coastal campgrounds offer unique marine wildlife viewing opportunities during low tide. "We carefully swam to the small rock island next to the dock and collected sea snails. The water was cold but felt great when hot. Watch out for jelly fish!" advises a Mount Desert Campground visitor.
What campers like
Oceanfront sites with marine wildlife: At Acadia Seashore Camping and Cabins (formerly Mountain View Campground), campers appreciate waterfront access. "For me it wasn't a typical camping experience, not a lot of trees and site are pretty close together, BUT the view is amazing, the people are amazing and activities in that area are endless," reports Jillian K.
Clean facilities: Lamoine State Park Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Lamoine State Park represents the way most Maine state parks should operate. Way ahead of both Camden Hills and Cobscook with regard to cleanliness and upkeep. Showers were surprisingly good and often cleaned," writes LoneCamper C.
Shuttle transportation: Many campers appreciate the Island Explorer shuttle system. "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. from Hadley's Point Campground.
What you should know
Tide impact: Coastal camping requires awareness of significant tidal changes. At Narrows Too Camping Resort, "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."
Reservation timing: Many of the best places to camp near Franklin require early planning. At Mount Desert Campground, "I woke up at 5am to reserve a site months in advance for the '24 camping season."
Campsite elevation and leveling needs: Several campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "Many sites are not flat and require significant leveling if in an rv," warns a Lamoine State Park visitor, while at Mount Desert "they have spent the time and money building leveled platforms for all the sites. Without the platforms, the campsites would be quite miserable."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Blackwoods Campground provides easy access to various outdoor explorations. "The campground was clean and beautiful. We were able to walk to the shuttle pickup and ride it to all stops in the park, and to Bar Harbor. It was so convenient!" shares Roxanne R.
Budget considerations: State parks like Lamoine offer affordable alternatives to private campgrounds. "Great place to camp outside the crazy tourist packed Acadia but only a 25 minute drive to the park. Very nice sites, flush toilets and showers," notes Kaelin P.
Local knowledge access: Campground hosts often provide valuable insights. At Acadia Seashore Camping and Cabins, "The owners not only surprised our girls with picks of their own antique dolls on arrival but they gave us their own brochure with hidden gems all around the area. We got to hike some of the best spots without the crowds."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Bar Harbor Campground, RVers recommend a flexible approach. "Is a first come first serve campground. Show up find an empty spot. Pay for it and it's yours. I first had a tent space facing the ocean for $36...Next morning I found an electric and water spot $40 close by and moved. After 4 days and my tanks were full. I found a full hook with sewer $46 and moved for the next week."
Water management: Without full hookups, plan accordingly. "All sites have electric (20/30/50) and some have electric and water only reflected in cheaper prices," explains a Schoodic Woods visitor, while another notes: "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."
Size limitations: Several campgrounds restrict larger RVs. "Sites are not made for large RVs. They can fit smaller camper trailers and pop-ups, but that's about it," warns a Mount Desert Campground visitor.
