Cottonwood Camping & RV Park offers luxury teepee accommodations with convenient access to hiking, ATV trails, and multiple glamping options. Located in Columbia Falls, this family-friendly destination provides guests with a unique western-themed camping experience that includes horseback riding opportunities. The property connects to ATV trails and features a variety of lodging choices from tent sites to deluxe glamping accommodations. Its rustic charm combined with modern amenities creates an appealing destination for those seeking an elevated outdoor experience near Maine's coast.
What to do
Kayaking near Acadia: At Bar Harbor Campground, visitors enjoy water-based activities with easy ocean access. "There is a day use area with a boat launch. Loved hearing the water on the shore at night, and the fishing boats heading out in the morning," reports Lisa G.
Hiking trails and tide pools: Seawall Campground offers proximity to coastal exploration opportunities. "With coastal hikes so close, sunrise hikes and exploring the tide pools were outstanding!" shares Steve M. The campground connects to several scenic trails and beaches where visitors can observe marine life during low tide.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple camping areas provide opportunities to spot native Maine wildlife. "There is a lot of wildlife and waterlife - we saw many seals and cormorants in the water, as well as a few eagles," notes Heather C. at Cobscook Bay State Park. Early morning and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing times.
Stargazing sessions: The region's minimal light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "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," mentions Kyle R. about Seawall Campground. Clear nights away from coastal fog provide optimal viewing conditions.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Campers consistently highlight water-adjacent campsites as premium locations. "Our waterfront site 344 was terrific - gorgeous view, and one of the larger waterfront spots. We could launch our kayaks directly from the site," shares Heather C. about Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA.
Cleanliness of facilities: Hadley's Point Campground receives praise for its maintenance standards. "Very clean bathrooms. Would stay again!" reports Caleb C. Many campgrounds in the region feature regularly cleaned restrooms and shower facilities.
Island Explorer shuttle access: Public transportation options eliminate driving concerns. "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.
Free seasonal activities: Summer months bring special outdoor programming at many locations. "If you find a painted rock and bring it to the office you get a free ice pop. It's the simple things in life, right?" shares Melissa N. about the Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA's family activities.
What you should know
Extreme tidal changes: Coastal camping requires awareness of dramatic water level fluctuations. "The tides will be like something you've never seen before, dropping in some areas up to 24 feet!" notes Danielle R. Plan water activities and shoreline exploration according to tide schedules.
Limited shower availability: Many campgrounds have minimal shower facilities. "Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water," reports Karla J.B. about Seawall Campground. Some locations require quarters for metered showers or have restricted hours.
Reservation systems vary: Each campground operates different booking policies. "This campground does not take reservations so you can pick whatever open site you want and if you want to extend your stay, you can," explains Nancy W. Research reservation requirements before planning your glamping trip close to Georgetown, Maine.
Cell service limitations: Remote locations often have connectivity challenges. "Most cell phone carriers won't have service back at the camp, I myself had to drive 20 Minutes up the road for signal," reports John R. about Machias Rips Campsite. Download maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Lamoine State Park offers child-friendly amenities. "The bathrooms and showers are cleaned regularly and the price for camping is great. There is a playground on the way to the ocean view!" shares Shelby L. Several campgrounds feature designated recreation spaces for different age groups.
Consider cabin options for easier setup: Hadley's Point Campground provides family-friendly structures. "The cabin contained a queen sized bed and a set of bunk beds. It also had a private bathroom with metered shower. 50 cents got you a hot, 7 minute shower, which was plenty of time!" describes Brandy N. These accommodations reduce setup time with children.
Choose sites with natural barriers: Look for campsite features that contain younger campers. "We chose this location to visit Acadia, Bar Harbor, and the island. We reserved a full hook up (back in), and were directed by an employee to our site," notes Kristine B. Sites with natural boundaries help contain children's play areas.
Pack extra quarters: Many shower facilities require coins. "There is a bathhouse with 3 showers and many pit toilets throughout the campground," shares Pamela H. about Cobscook Bay State Park. Most campground showers cost $0.25-$2.00 for timed water usage.
Tips from RVers
Water and electric limitations: HTR Acadia (formerly Somes Sound View Campground) has site-specific utility challenges. "Our site has water and electric on the wrong side. Excellent shower house," reports Rita. RVers should bring extra-long utility hoses and cords.
Dump station locations: Plan waste management around available facilities. "Campground has a potable water fill and sanitation dump, both clean and well maintained," notes Joe R. about Cobscook Bay State Park. Most state parks offer dump stations near entrances.
Site leveling requirements: Many coastal campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Many sites are not flat and require significant leveling if in an rv," cautions Heather C. about Lamoine State Park. Bring additional leveling blocks for coastal locations.
Size restrictions on forested sites: Large rigs face limitations at many Maine campgrounds. "Limited RV sites and very limited for over 20 feet," warns Pamela H. Measure your total length including tow vehicle when researching glamping options close to Georgetown, Maine.
