The area surrounding Franklin, Maine offers camping options within 30 minutes of Acadia National Park, with elevations ranging from sea level to over 1,500 feet at nearby mountains. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F, with cooler nights perfect for campfires. Fall brings vibrant foliage and temperatures dropping into the 40s at night.
What to do
Kayaking from shoreline sites: Several campgrounds provide direct water access for launching kayaks. At HTR Acadia, visitors appreciate the shoreline opportunities: "We showed up to Maine unprepared with a place to stay... Both sites were very nice. The sites were equipped with hammock trees, fire rings, picnic tables, and even running water and electricity!" Kayaking is available directly from waterfront sites.
Lighthouse exploration: The Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse sits within walking distance of Bass Harbor Campground. "It's walking distance to the Bass Harbor Lighthouse and other National Park hiking trails. We loved it and look forward returning for another trip!" says one visitor. The lighthouse offers spectacular sunset viewing opportunities, though parking is limited.
Wildlife watching: Branch Lake offers opportunities to view native Maine wildlife. "We had loons come in close to our site. Saw an Eagle too," notes a camper about their experience. The 26.5-mile perimeter lake with depths reaching 124 feet provides habitat for various bird species.
What campers like
Free shuttle service: The Island Explorer shuttle stops at Hadley's Point Campground, providing convenient transportation to Acadia and Bar Harbor. A visitor notes, "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."
Quiet alternative locations: For those seeking to avoid crowds, Lamoine State Park Campground provides a peaceful experience: "Lamoine State Park is a great option if you want to be close to Acadia but away from the crowds... You are about 30 minutes to Acadia, 20 to Ellsworth and 30 to Blue Hill. It is a convenient location that is outside of the crowds."
Night sky viewing: Several campgrounds around Franklin offer exceptional stargazing. "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," shares a Seawall Campground visitor. Light pollution is minimal in many areas outside Bar Harbor.
What you should know
First-come, first-served policies: Some campgrounds don't take reservations. At Bar Harbor Campground, "This is a nice campground located close to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. The campground does not take reservations so you can pick whatever open site you want and if you want to extend your stay, you can. When you arrive, you get a map, find an empty site, get set-up and then go back to the office to register."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the area operate from mid-May through mid-October. Shoulder seasons (May and October) offer fewer crowds but cooler temperatures, with overnight lows sometimes dropping into the 30s.
Yurt camping Franklin, Maine options: Several campgrounds near Franklin offer yurt accommodations as alternatives to traditional tent or RV camping. Yurts typically include beds, electricity, and some furnishings, making them popular for those new to camping or visiting during cooler weather.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds and swimming areas: Patten Pond Camping Resort provides family-friendly amenities: "There is a small beach at the lake where you can swim and kayak (for rent). People at the office are very nice, polite and accommodating." Many campgrounds offer designated swimming areas that are safer for children than ocean access points.
Book small cabins for budget-friendly comfort: For families seeking yurt camping near Franklin, Maine without full gear, Quietside Campground offers affordable options: "My wife and I rented a 'hobbit' cabin for our anniversary for 3 nights at 50 dollars a night it was a great deal. The on site baths and showers were clean and maintained great."
Plan for weather variability: Maine weather can change quickly, especially near the coast. Pack layers and rain gear even in summer. "It poured all night so we took off pretty early. There is so much to see in the area that you won't want to spend much time hanging around in one spot," notes one camper about their experience.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven sites. "Some sites are not flat and require significant leveling if in an rv," notes a Lamoine State Park visitor. Bring leveling blocks and check with campground staff about site recommendations for larger rigs.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "We have a 19 ft travel trailer... Our lot was small but was right on the ocean. It was such a beautiful spot." Be aware of dump station hours and locations if staying at partial hookup sites.
