Cabins near Islesford, Maine offer water access and wooded seclusion on Mount Desert Island and surrounding areas. Winter temperatures average 15-30°F, while summer averages 55-75°F with frequent fog conditions that can reduce visibility. Acadia National Park and nearby camping areas provide opportunities for exploration on both the eastern and western sides of the island.
What to do
Explore tidal areas: At Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA, kayaking options provide water-based activities directly from some sites. "Beautiful to have the views to myself and one other neighbor. Beach front, able to swim and SUP right from the campsite," notes one visitor. Plan around the 10-12 foot tides that create dramatic shoreline changes throughout the day.
Hike from your site: Many cabin accommodations connect directly to trails. At Smuggler's Den Campground, "Hiking trails connect to the back of the campground for access to Beech Mtn and Echo Lake beach." This allows for early morning or evening hiking without driving to trailheads. One camper mentioned, "You can pick up trails right from the campground and walk to a great beach in Acadia National Park."
Visit lighthouses: Cabin locations on the quieter side of Mount Desert Island provide easy lighthouse access. "It's walking distance to the Bass Harbor Head Light, and that is just beautiful. Rarely is there ample parking at the light, so walking from your site has its advantages," reports a visitor who stayed at Bass Harbor Campground.
What campers like
Cabin variety: Bass Harbor Campground offers diverse cabin styles from basic to equipped. "We stayed in a small cabin and it was perfect for our stay. Had space to prepare food as well as a microwave, fire pit, and grill for use," explains one visitor who spent their honeymoon there. Some cabins include kitchen facilities while others focus on sleeping space.
Stargazing opportunities: The western side of Mount Desert Island offers exceptional night sky viewing. At Seawall Campground, "The night was clear, the stars out, and the sounds of the Atlantic nearby made a superb camping experience." Another camper added, "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."
Cabin platform locations: Some properties offer unique elevated cabin sites with exceptional views. At HTR Acadia (formerly Somes Sound View Campground), "I snagged the best spot right on the waters edge on a platform." Platform cabins provide better drainage during wet weather and often superior views compared to ground-level sites.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The main season runs May through October, with limited options outside this window. "We stayed early in the season, before Memorial Day, and there were very few camp sites that were occupied," reports a visitor to Narrows Too Camping Resort. Shoulder season (May-June and September-October) means fewer crowds but variable weather conditions.
Water quality issues: Some properties experience water system challenges. One camper at Narrows Too noted, "The rust level is high in this campground so I didn't feel comfortable washing laundry." Pack drinking water if staying at properties with known water issues.
Insect preparation: Bug repellent is essential, particularly in wooded cabin areas. "Just remember to bring a ton of bug repellent, or opt to go during the months where bugs are less mild," advises a Seawall Campground visitor. June typically sees the highest mosquito activity around cabins near Islesford.
Proximity tradeoffs: Cabin locations closer to Bar Harbor provide convenience but less privacy. "Sites were spaced out enough for privacy. We had a site with a wooden platform that was perfectly level," reports a visitor to Quietside Campground, highlighting the privacy advantage of westside accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Hadley's Point Campground provides family-friendly amenities near cabin areas. "The campground had a pool, hot showers and laundry that cost money, and a cute little office for all your information needs," notes one visitor. Swimming options provide alternative activities during foggy or cool weather days.
Shuttle transportation: Family exploration without driving logistics makes cabin stays more relaxing. "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. We used the bus almost every day," explains a family who stayed at Hadley's Point.
Cabin proximity to facilities: When booking, consider bathroom distance for families with young children. "Perfect location for those traveling with small kids, as it was just a stone's throw from both the bathhouse and playground," reports a Smuggler's Den visitor about their site location, highlighting the importance of strategic cabin selection.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds with cabin facilities also accommodate RVs with specific site preparation. "The site was nice, staff was decent. One worker was somewhat short and condescending towards me, but overall alright," notes a visitor to Schoodic Woods Campground. RVers staying in sites near cabins report varying leveling quality.
Power limitations: Electric service varies widely between properties and specific sites. "All sites have electric (20/30/50) and some have electric and water only reflected in cheaper prices," notes a camper detailing the Schoodic Woods electrical setup. Some cabin areas share electrical infrastructure with RV sections.
Access road considerations: Roadways to western Mount Desert Island cabin locations involve narrower passages. "The location is an easy drive for downtown for Bar Harbor, North East Harbor and South West Harbor," explains a visitor about navigating between towns from their oceanfront accommodation.
