HTR Acadia campground sits on the quieter section of Mount Desert Island, Maine. The property offers oceanfront camping with several waterfront sites positioned along Somes Sound. Established campsites include wooded areas with varying degrees of privacy and shade, with most sites featuring trees suitable for hammock setup. While the campground doesn't have designated equestrian sites, there are multiple accommodation options for visitors seeking camping near Lincolnville Center, Maine.
What to do
Paddle the Sound: Direct water access with a dock allows for easy kayaking excursions. According to one camper at HTR Acadia, "Great campground. Staff is helpful, sites are clean. Definitely a tent friendly place. 90% of the sites are well shaded, and most have plenty of room."
Wildlife Viewing: The waterfront location offers opportunities to spot local marine life. As one visitor notes, "This is truly a stunning little spot and it was so peaceful." Some campers report seeing wildlife from the dock and waterfront areas.
Visit Acadia National Park: The campground serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby park trails. A visitor explains, "Proximity to Acadia National Park, Southwest Harbor, and all the great things to do in the area is perfect."
What campers like
Waterfront Sites: Campsites along the water are particularly sought after. One reviewer states, "Highly recommend the waterfront sites. Some of the sites are small but the view makes up for it."
Clean Facilities: The campground maintains well-kept bathroom facilities. A camper reports, "The bathrooms were clean and well placed. It was also on the Somes Sound / Atlantic Ocean. The views were breathtaking."
Reliable WiFi: Unlike many rustic campgrounds in the region, HTR Acadia offers quality internet service. One camper mentioned, "Water pressure was low, but the WiFi was awesome."
What you should know
Site Selection Matters: Quality and size of campsites vary significantly throughout the property. A visitor advises, "Do your research not all the sites here are created equal." Another camper notes, "I would avoid campsite 14 (the one I had), because the parking spot is about six feet above the camping area, and the camping area is not especially level."
Sound Travels Over Water: Noise can be an issue, especially at waterfront sites. One camper shares, "This is truly a stunning little spot and it was so peaceful, until it wasn't. I snagged the best spot right on the waters edge on a platform. The night I happened to stay here I had a very noisy group of young adults show up around 9pm and were up until 3 in the morning chatting and laughing."
Limited Store Options: While there is a market on-site, selection is restricted. According to a review, "Limited general store but clean bath house and pool."
Tips for camping with families
Utilize the Pool: The heated swimming pool provides recreational options for children. A visitor mentions, "Great pool and other facilities. Found this place because the State Parks closed camping due to Covid, what a great find."
Consider Shoulder Season: For families seeking quieter camping near Lincolnville Center, Maine, mid-week visits in September can offer more solitude. One camper noted, "When I was there (although it was mid-week in September), the campground was very quiet, even though every site was full."
Book Early for Waterfront: Family-friendly waterfront sites require advance planning. According to a review, "Although the campground is on the water, don't expect to get a water front spot unless you reserve well in advance, even during the week."
Tips from RVers
Utility Placement: Check the location of hookups when booking. One RVer reports, "Our site has water and electric on the wrong side."
Navigating Sites: Most sites accommodate RVs well despite the wooded setting. A visitor explains, "Our site was on a hill but getting the camper in was easy."
Extended Stay Planning: For longer visits, investigate amenity limitations. One RVer staying multiple days noted, "We stayed at Somes Sound Campground for 5 days. It was extremely pleasant... Water pressure was low, but the WiFi was awesome."
