Glamping in Isle au Haut, Maine offers a coastal camping experience on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean where fog frequently blankets the landscape, creating dramatic visibility changes throughout the day. This remote island area, accessible by mail boat from Stonington, maintains cooler summer temperatures averaging 10-15°F below inland regions due to maritime effects. Campers often note the exceptional darkness for stargazing when weather permits.
What to do
Stargazing at night spots: Seawall Campground provides unparalleled night sky viewing opportunities. "A 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," notes Kyle R., who recommends visiting during months with less fog for optimal viewing.
Kayaking from waterfront sites: Launch directly from your campsite at Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA where waterfront spots offer immediate water access. "We could launch our kayaks directly from the site. The kayaking from the park is very good, with protected access into Mt. Desert Narrows," explains a visitor who appreciated the convenience.
Hiking nearby trails: Camden Hills State Park Campground offers direct trail access from campsites. "One of the real pluses of this park were the miles and miles of hiking trails just outside our doorstep," writes Nancy W. The park features trails for various skill levels within walking distance of camping areas.
Swimming options: During warmer months, several locations offer swimming near glamping sites. "There is a really nice large swimming pool perched right along the water," reports a camper at Bar Harbor Campground, noting the unique position overlooking Frenchmen's Bay while swimmers enjoy heated water.
What campers like
Private waterfront views: Somes Sound View Campground offers sites with direct ocean views. "Beautiful view of the water. Highly recommend the waterfront sites," advises Jessica P., adding that the "Anchor campground is tucked in your own corner and pretty private!"
Clean facilities: Glampers consistently mention clean bathrooms and shower facilities as important features. "The bathhouse we went into had one shower for the men and one for the women. The toilet and sinks were combined into one stall with 2 stalls for the men and 2 stalls for the women," notes Cheryl K. about Quietside Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Several glamping sites offer opportunities for nature viewing. "We went swimming at their beach and saw a seal!" shares Michael K. about his experience at Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, highlighting unexpected wildlife encounters that enhance the coastal glamping experience.
Fresh seafood access: Local seafood availability adds to the regional camping experience. "Highly highly recommend getting fresh lobster from the local lobster man that lives on the grounds, they even supply you with a pot to boil them!" reports Andrew B., appreciating the authentic Maine dining experience while glamping.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At HTR Acadia (formerly Somes Sound), research before booking is essential. "Do your research not all the sites here are created equal," cautions one reviewer, explaining that "although the campground is on the water, don't expect to get a water front spot unless you reserve well in advance."
Public transit availability: The Island Explorer shuttle provides car-free access to attractions. "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," explains Jenna L., noting they "used the bus almost every day" to avoid parking challenges.
First-come basis at some locations: Not all campgrounds accept reservations. "This is a first come first serve campground. Show up find an empty spot. Pay for it and it's yours," explains Celeste M. about Bar Harbor Campground, where site selection operates differently than reservation-based systems.
Seasonal variations: Weather and operating seasons vary significantly. "We stayed at this campground for 5 days. It was extremely pleasant. Our site was on a hill but getting the camper in was easy. Water pressure was low, but the WiFi was awesome," notes TJ S., highlighting how infrastructure performance changes with seasonal demand.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several glamping sites offer structured family programs. "As with any KOA they have lots of activities throughout the day for families, and a pool, but 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. about her daughter's experience at Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA.
Budget-friendly options: Bass Harbor Campground offers economical glamping alternatives. "My wife and I rented a hobbit cabin for our anniversary for 3 nights at 50 dollars a night it was a great deal," reports Micah B., describing the value of these unique accommodations compared to traditional lodging.
Swimming access considerations: Pool facilities vary between locations. "The pool is cold in June," warns one camper, suggesting families plan accordingly when traveling early in the season when natural water bodies remain particularly cold after winter.
Walking distances within campgrounds: Parents should consider internal campground layouts. "Bathhouse was fine, and there's a dishwash station right outside of the bathhouse," reports Ali B., but notes at some locations, "Bathrooms were far, and only 3 showers, one was down."
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: RV campers should research specific site dimensions and capabilities. "We had a site with water and electric on the wrong side," reports one camper about their experience, emphasizing the importance of confirming hookup locations when booking.
Road conditions: Interior campground roads vary in quality for larger vehicles. "Roads in the park are paved but some corners can be a little tight for big-rigs, best to unhitch your tow car up front in case you have to back up," advises Nancy W., providing practical navigation tips.
Hookup availability: Hadley's Point Campground offers various connection options. "We reserved a full hook up (back in), and were directed by an employee to our site," notes Kristine B., adding that "good water pressure" was a positive feature despite other challenges.
Generator policies: Noise regulations affect non-hookup sites. "Limited generator hours, but there is a dump site and water available to fill," explains Laura L., noting the balance campgrounds maintain between services and peaceful camping environments.
