Cabin accommodations near Harborside, Maine provide access to Maine's central coastal region, with elevations ranging from sea level to 934 feet at nearby Blue Hill Mountain. The region experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 70-75°F during peak season, with cooler nights often requiring a light jacket even during July and August. Most cabin rental facilities operate on municipal water systems, though some use well water that may have a slight mineral taste.
What to do
Coastal hiking trails: Near Seawall Campground, visitors can access several hiking paths within 2 miles of camp. "A short drive to the main part of the park & far enough away so that it's not crowded during busy weekends. Just remember to bring a ton of bug repellent, or opt to go during the months where bugs are less mild," notes Kyle R.
Kayaking from your site: Many waterfront cabin rentals at Megunticook by the Sea allow direct water access. "The deck on the ocean is a great place to picnic. Rockport harbor is a short bike ride away with a beautiful ocean side road. Ask the harbor master for directions," suggests Kevin W. Some cabins have private launch areas while others provide communal access points.
Stargazing: Several cabin locations offer 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," recommends Kyle R. about Seawall. Clear nights between late August and mid-October typically offer the best viewing conditions.
What campers like
Cedar showers: Multiple reviewers highlight the unique shower facilities at Megunticook by the Sea. "The bathrooms are clean and the cedar showers are awesome! We've been excited to come back here since we left," shares Chelsea. Another camper adds, "I made use of the cedar showers for a long hot shower - awesome! Crystal clean bathrooms."
Lobster bakes: Communal seafood experiences are popular at Somes Sound View Campground, where evening gatherings happen regularly. "There is also a path to the shore with picnic tables, and chairs. Repairs to the sea wall are in progress so caution was recommended," notes Lee D. These events typically cost $25-60 per person depending on menu options.
Arts and activities: Some cabin rentals offer unexpected cultural experiences. "It's also a treasure trove of arts of all kinds - fiber arts, metal sculptures, carvings, paintings, and music. We got lucky and stayed on a lovely weekend in September that featured a small, intimate festival and workshop of fiddlers, banjos, ukuleles, mandolins, and guitars jamming with old time and blue grass music," shares Kathy L. about her stay at Searsport Shores.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA, cabin locations vary significantly. "We were put on a shared site that had a pull thru in the middle of the two sites. Small site and not private," reports Melissa L. Research specific site numbers when booking cabins for more privacy.
Water pressure issues: Some properties experience inconsistent water pressure. "Limited general store but clean bath house and pool. Anchor campground is tucked in your own corner and pretty private!" mentions Jessica P. about Somes Sound View Campground. Many cabins operate on well systems that fluctuate with usage.
Reservation requirements: Most properties require substantial advance planning. "Online the prices was 40$ for a tent site. We didn't need water or electric just a spot to sleep for the night. I called to reserve cause the website wasn't very easy to work with and the man on the phone said 76$ but couldn't explain costs," reports Aly E. about unexpected pricing at Megunticook Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Smuggler's Den Campground offers multiple recreation options. "Amazing campground. Staff is extremely friendly. Campground has a small camp store, a heated pool and children's pool, large home style gas grills with picnic area, horseshoe pits, a large playground for children and a large field for anything from badminton to football," shares Seth W.
Transportation planning: The Island Explorer shuttle services many cabin properties. "Also a nice playground and pool looked nice. Free shuttle service to Acadia and Bar Harbor available," notes Kristine B. This free service runs approximately every 30 minutes during peak season (late June through Labor Day).
Budget considerations: Cabin rates fluctuate dramatically based on season and amenities. "Corporations are buying up the private campgrounds and charging ridiculous prices. The three around Campden, ME have 4 day minimums making the most basic RV site $225 to $260 per stay," warns Mike V. Cabins typically cost 30-50% more than comparable RV sites.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for cabins: At Hadley's Point Campground, cabin locations vary significantly. "Nice site one of the more expensive campgrounds in the area. Polite staff. I asked if I could rinse off the front and back of Airstream as they have dusty roads here. They said no not even without soap," reports Jim S., highlighting strict water usage policies that affect all guests.
Waterfront access considerations: Waterfront cabins may have unexpected limitations. "Despite being next to the public oceanfront area (where lovely chairs and tables are provided) people would literally walk to the Oceanfront campsites and stand there snapping photos or just hanging around at sunset, even if my husband and I were sitting down at our picnic table eating our dinners," describes Meghan B. about oceanfront sites at Bar Harbor KOA.
Seasonal facility changes: Many properties reduce services late season. "Stayed in one of their cabins out of season and really enjoyed it. Not far from the best Acadia hiking (like 20 minutes), has a nice view of the ocean, and the campground is well maintained and clean and everyone is very friendly," shares ReJeana G., noting the off-season benefits of cabin rentals near Harborside despite some amenities being closed.
