Hulls Cove sits at the northeastern entrance to Acadia National Park, positioned at approximately 75 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate. Winter temperatures often dip below freezing, while summer temperatures typically range from 60-75°F. The area receives about 49 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forested camping environments that contrast with the rocky coastal terrain found nearby.
What to do
Kayak from your campsite: At Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, visitors can launch directly from the property. "My family has been here twice now and we thoroughly enjoy ourselves! Highly recommend!" notes Eric M. The campground includes access to a rocky beach via a path with two metal bridges where campers frequently spot seals swimming.
Stargaze near the water: Walk across the street from Seawall Campground to experience remarkable night skies. Kyle R. shares, "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." The coastal location offers minimal light pollution for optimal celestial viewing.
Swim in Patten Pond: When the ocean proves too chilly, Patten Pond Camping Resort offers freshwater swimming alternatives. "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," reports Mara S. The pond provides a warmer swimming option than the Atlantic, especially in early summer.
What campers like
Off-grid yurt experience: HTR Acadia in Mount Desert offers yurt camping near Hulls Cove with sites positioned for maximum privacy. Jessica P. notes, "Anchor campground is tucked in your own corner and pretty private!" The waterfront setting creates unique camping conditions with access to Somes Sound.
Hobbit hut accommodations: Quietside Campground offers unique alternatives to traditional yurt camping in Hulls Cove. "My wife and I rented a 'hobbit' cabin for our anniversary for 3 nights at 50 dollars a night it was a great deal," shares Micah B. These distinctive dwellings provide affordable shelter options with access to campground amenities.
Island Explorer shuttle access: Bar Harbor Campground provides convenient transportation throughout the region. Kevin W. mentions, "Rode our bicycles to Bar Harbor, a little over 12 miles round trip." The shuttle system eliminates parking concerns and connects multiple campgrounds to popular destinations around Mount Desert Island.
What you should know
First-come availability challenges: Bar Harbor Campground operates on a no-reservation system requiring specific strategies. Tammy H. advises, "Great campground. No reservations taken so get there early to get his sites." Another visitor explains, "Show up find an empty spot. Pay for it and it's yours."
Site selection importance: Some campgrounds have significant variability between sites. Amy G. warns about Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls: "Do not take site H5... I paid full price for a 'campsite' that was NOT a campsite. It was a parking space for my trailer and nothing more." Research specific site numbers before booking when possible.
Off-season considerations: Most facilities operate from mid-May through mid-October with limited availability outside these dates. Showers are sometimes located in separate facilities with limited hours. "Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water," reports Karla J.B. about her Seawall Campground experience.
Tips for camping with families
Blueberry picking opportunities: Bar Harbor Campground offers a unique seasonal activity. "Mid July to Mid August free blueberries campside," notes Tammy H. This provides children with a natural foraging experience and free healthy snacks during peak summer camping.
Painted rock hunts: Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA engages children with creative activities. "My daughter begs to camp here... she loves the ice pop contest. If you find a painted rock and bring it to the office you get a free ice pop," shares Melissa N. These simple games create memorable experiences for younger campers.
Pool alternatives: Hadley's Point Campground features swimming options for when ocean waters prove too cold. "There is a really nice large swimming pool perched right along the water," notes Nancy W. The heated pool provides a family-friendly swimming option regardless of ocean conditions.
Tips from RVers
Campground location considerations: When selecting yurt or RV camping near Hulls Cove, consider which side of Mount Desert Island best suits your plans. "Quietside campground's worst feature is it is about a half hour to the major areas of Acadia National Park," explains Heather W., noting that "if this is your only visit to Acadia you may want to stay on the other side of the island."
Size restrictions: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. "Nice campground if you are small and can get some shade otherwise you are in a field with little or no shade," warns Marilyn L. about Hadley's Point. Research maximum length restrictions before booking, especially for sites with hookups.
Utility arrangements: Some campgrounds have unusual utility layouts. At Bass Harbor Campground, "Our sewer dump was 3 ft or less from the neighbors fire pit," reports Kristine B. Request specific site information when making reservations to avoid unexpected issues with hookup placement, especially during busy periods.
