RV camping near Holden, Maine offers convenient access to both major urban amenities and pristine wilderness areas. Located within a 15-minute drive of Bangor, Holden serves as a strategic base for exploring Maine's diverse coastal and inland attractions. The camping season in this region typically runs from early May through mid-October, with temperatures ranging from daytime highs of 70-80°F in summer to nighttime lows around 50°F.
What to do
Explore Acadia National Park: Many campers staying near Holden make the 45-60 minute drive to Acadia. The Schoodic Peninsula section offers a less crowded alternative to the main park areas. "Schoodic Peninsula is just 5 minutes to the Schoodic Peninsula. About an hours drive to the main Acadia but just 5 minutes to the Schoodic Peninsula," notes a visitor at Mainstay Cottages & RV Park.
Visit coastal towns: The charming coastal communities near Holden provide shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. "We love shopping at the Co-op, eating pizza at Meanwhile in Belfast, lobster at Young's Lobster Pound, and lunch at Chase's Daily. Plus, you are just five miles from the cute town of Searsport which houses the wonderful Penobscot Marine Museum," shares a camper from Moorings Oceanfront RV Resort.
Water activities: The region offers numerous opportunities for paddling, fishing, and boating. "The campground is right on the water and there is a nice path leading to an overlook and down to the water which is tidal. Rental kayaks and paddle boards are available or you can bring your own and leave it down at the waters edge," according to a review from West Bay Acadia RV Campground.
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Several campgrounds in the region have minimal light pollution. "Recently added is a short nature trail and off leash dog park. Another great thing about this park is that it is a certified dark sky park. Campers are asked to turn outside lights off so there is no light noise to interfere with the beautiful sky full of stars, planets, and meteor showers," reports a West Bay Acadia camper.
Waterfront sites: Many RV parks offer premium waterfront sites with ocean or lake views. A guest at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort shared: "We got a site on the water with lots of room. Water and 30-amp electric, some are full hook up, and a dump station. Lots of shade, and a steady breeze off the water."
Community amenities: Several campgrounds organize social activities that enhance the camping experience. "The park organizes a lot of group activities including pot lucks, lobster shore dinners, BBQ feast, and cold beverages offered during Friday Happy Hours," notes a visitor to Moorings Oceanfront RV Resort.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "We stayed in site #67. I would recommend requesting a site other than 66 or 67 because it backs right up to the water pump system for the RV park, which is quite loud when the pump turns on and off," advises a camper at Timberland Acres RV Park.
Tidal considerations: Waterfront sites along the coast experience significant tidal changes. "Just make sure you paddle around high tide or else you will be slogging your watercraft through a soft mucky clam flat," warns a camper from West Bay Acadia RV Campground.
Varying site privacy: Site layouts and spacing differ significantly between campgrounds. "Sites are very clean and the park is well-groomed with maintenance people always mowing or cleaning sites. There is pretty good space between sites so you don't feel cramped or right on top of your neighbor," notes a review from Pumpkin Patch RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Select family-oriented campgrounds: Not all RV parks cater equally to children. "This campground caters more to adults and does not have too much for kids to do. There is a small outdoor game area, and a new dog exercise area which has water and toys," shares a Pumpkin Patch RV Resort visitor.
Check for recreation options: Some parks offer additional amenities for children. At Mt Desert Narrows, "The kids loved playing on the playground and going down to the water at low tide. There is a kayak launch as well, and pool, but both were closed since we came in at the end of season."
Consider seasonal activities: Community events at campgrounds vary throughout the season. "I love this campsite. They have sites right on the water, a gift shop, pool, laundry, game room, free showers and the times that I've been there they've had weekly events like ice cream socials and an Elvis impersonator," reports a camper from Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Check site details carefully: Site layouts and amenities vary widely even within the same campground. "If you're looking for a camp site close to Acadia without the crowd, look to MainStay in Winter Harbor. About an hours drive to the main Acadia but just 5 minutes to the Schoodic Peninsula," advises a guest at Mainstay Cottages & RV Park.
Consider self-contained needs: Some parks require RVers to be fully self-contained. "Need to be self-contained as there's no amenities. Park is on the water and great views," notes a visitor to West Bay Acadia RV Campground.
Plan for weather variability: Maine weather can change rapidly, especially along the coast. "We went at the end of September to visit Acadia National Park and the foliage was Beautiful! It wasn't even at its peak. The campsite is surrounded by beautiful trees," shares a visitor to Patten Pond Camping Resort.