Isle au Haut camping options position visitors between the mainland and Acadia National Park's remote island section. The region experiences significant tidal fluctuations ranging from 10-12 feet, affecting water access and creating extensive mudflats during low tide. Fall temperatures typically drop to 40-50°F at night, requiring warmer sleeping gear than summer camping.
What to do
Kayak during high tide: Visitors staying at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort can launch directly from waterfront sites when tides permit. "The site was easy to get into, and reasonably level. Lots of shade, and a steady breeze off the water," notes Joel R., who recommends tracking tide schedules for water activities.
Explore Schoodic Peninsula: Located just 10 minutes from West Bay Acadia RV Campground, the less-crowded Schoodic section of Acadia offers similar natural features without Bar Harbor traffic. "Just ten minutes away is the Schoodic Woods section of Acadia—a less busy and equally beautiful area of the National Park," confirms Nancy W.
Visit Vinalhaven Island: The ferry from Rockland provides day-trip access to this working fishing island. Campers staying at mainland RV parks can bring vehicles or walk on. "We loved taking the ferry to Vinalhaven Island for the day and picking up prepared food at the Market Basket and eating it along the Rockland Harbor waterfront watching the boats come and go," reports one visitor.
What campers like
Dark sky viewing: West Bay Acadia RV Campground maintains a certified dark sky designation with minimal light pollution. "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," explains a reviewer who appreciated the stargazing opportunities.
Private, wooded sites: The forested campsites at Greenlaw's RV Park & Campground provide natural buffers between neighbors. "We stayed is site U1 which was fantastic. Last site on the deadend road and was very secluded," shares Angela, highlighting the privacy that's uncommon at many coastal Maine campgrounds.
Community gardens: Some campgrounds provide fresh produce access during the growing season. "We love the free community garden which has a wonderful selection of produce including strawberries, tomatillos, fresh herbs, beans, lettuces, etc. Feel free to pick whatever you will eat, just leave some for others," notes a camper about the edible amenities.
What you should know
Tidal considerations: Most waterfront RV parks near Isle au Haut experience dramatic tidal shifts affecting water activities. At Narrows Too Camping Resort, one camper advises: "You will be left walking across muddy soft clam flats if you are not mindful of the 10-12 foot tides."
Limited ferry capacity: The Isle au Haut ferry from Stonington has strict vehicle limits and requires advance reservations during peak season. Only six passenger vehicles are permitted per day, with priority given to island residents.
Seasonal crowds at sunset spots: Waterfront campsites often attract non-residents during sunset hours. A camper at Bar Harbor KOA notes: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Look beyond Bar Harbor: Timberland Acres RV Park offers family-friendly amenities without the higher costs of oceanfront resorts. "This place is a hidden gem. We originally booked at Narrows Too but they had to cancel the morning we were scheduled to arrive due to a water issue. Booked at Timberland as a last minute option and was pleasantly surprised! We also saved about $120 overall," reports Stephanie.
Consider water quality issues: Some campgrounds experience seasonal water discoloration. One camper noted: "There is defined an issue with the water. When we turned in the tap the water ran brown." Bring drinking water or inquire about current conditions when making reservations.
Pack for temperature swings: Early fall camping requires both warm and cool weather clothing. Coastal areas can experience 30°F temperature differences between day and night, particularly at oceanfront sites where wind chill is significant.
Tips from RVers
Consider site location within parks: At Mainstay Cottages & RV Park, size and location matter. "Sites are small but there are only 9 with full hook ups. If you're looking for a quiet spot near Acadia park this is it," advises Ronald C., who appreciated the limited number of RV sites.
Book grocery delivery services: Rather than navigating narrow downtown streets in larger rigs, several campers recommend using grocery delivery from Ellsworth stores to campgrounds. This saves both driving challenges and parking frustrations in congested areas.
Factor in ferry or transportation costs: When calculating camping budgets for exploring Isle au Haut, include round-trip passenger ferry costs ($20-40 per person) and potential water taxi services ($100+ for after-hours returns). Many campers recommend staying on the mainland and making Isle au Haut a day trip rather than attempting to bring camping gear to the island.
