Mount Desert Island camping includes both national park campgrounds and private operations nestled within coastal Maine's granite terrain. The island rises to 1,530 feet at Cadillac Mountain, creating distinct microclimates across campgrounds with temperature differences of 5-10°F between coastal and inland sites. Winter storms can bring significant coastal erosion to shoreline campsites, requiring regular maintenance of tent platforms and access points.
What to do
Hiking with campground access: At Schoodic Woods Campground, trails connect directly to the campground. "Surrounding the campground are miles of biking and hiking trails that are easily accessible from your campsite. There is a six-mile loop that takes you along the beautiful rocky coast with views of lighthouses, islands, forests, and wetlands," notes Nancy W.
Kayaking from waterfront sites: Campers at Mount Desert Campground can launch directly from the property. "We rented double kayaks from the front office for 2 hours and kayaked Somes Sound - it was beautiful water & amazing exploring! A bit more difficult with the ocean currents vs lake kayaking, so keep that in mind with kids," shares Whitney W.
Crab hunting from docks: Families enjoy this activity at Mount Desert Campground's floating docks. "We purchased a crab bucket with net from the coffee shop one morning for around $10-12. It was well worth it as my kids crab gigged for HOURS off the docks every day!" reports Whitney W.
Beach exploration at low tide: Bar Harbor Campground provides coastal access with varying landscapes. "We loved playing on the playground and going down to the water at low tide. There is a kayak launch as well, and pool," shares Kasey M., who stayed at the campground during her birthday celebration.
What campers like
Free island transportation: The Island Explorer shuttle connects most campgrounds to park attractions. "The shuttle bus takes 50 minutes to get to Bar Harbor, by car it's closer to 30. There was really nothing to do at the campground except camp -no hikes or trails directly there," explains Karla J. B. about her experience at Seawall Campground.
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the seclusion at Smuggler's Den Campground. "The tent sites are very private. We felt safe and secure. It's quiet and the staff was very friendly," shares Melissa N., highlighting the campground's atmosphere.
Platform tent sites: These provide level camping on rocky terrain. "Since the campground sits among the rocky and mountainous coast line, they have spent the time and money building leveled platforms for all the sites. Without the platforms, the campsites would be quite miserable," explains Melissa W. about Mount Desert Campground.
Oceanfront sunsets: Premium waterfront sites offer stunning views. "Our waterfront site 344 was terrific - gorgeous view, and one of the larger waterfront spots. We could launch our kayaks directly from the site," reports Heather C. at Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Many campgrounds fill months in advance. "I woke up at 5am to reserve a site months in advance for the '24 camping season," mentions Whitney W. about securing a spot at Mount Desert Campground.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly by location. "We didn't have reliable cell service. The shuttle bus takes 50 minutes to get to Bar Harbor, by car it's closer to 30," reports Karla J. B. about Seawall Campground.
Shower options: National Park campgrounds typically lack showers. "Bathrooms are clean and fresh water, many options to stop for firewood on the road to the campground," notes Paige B. about Blackwoods Campground, which doesn't have shower facilities.
Bug preparation: Insects can be problematic in wooded areas. "No matter if you wear long sleeves and long pants, plus use bug spray, the mosquitos are vicious. Between gnats and mosquitos, sitting outside to eat is nearly impossible," warns Rick C. about his experience at Schoodic Woods.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for kids: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools. "The kids loved playing on the playground and going down to the water at low tide. There is a kayak launch as well, and pool," notes Kasey M. about Bar Harbor Campground.
Rock collecting opportunities: Coastal sites provide natural exploration. "With coastal hikes so close, sunrise hikes and exploring the tide pools were outstanding!" shares Steve M. about his experience at Seawall Campground.
Playground proximity: Consider site location for convenience with small children. "Perfect location for those traveling with small kids, as it was just a stone's throw from both the bathhouse and playground," advises Jen V. about Smuggler's Den Campground.
Wildlife viewing from campsites: Many sites offer natural observation opportunities. "The night was clear, the stars out, and the sounds of the Atlantic nearby made a superb camping experience," reports Steve M. after camping at Seawall Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Not all campgrounds accommodate bigger RVs. "The sites are large however the terrain is difficult to navigate. There is NO dump station located at the campground however a few miles down the road, there is a campground that allows you to use theirs for a $20.00 fee," advises Garrett D. about Mount Desert Campground.
Generator restrictions: Many campgrounds have specific quiet hours or restrictions. "Each RV took about 15 minutes. If you are third in line, you will be waiting... Since there is no sewer, you would think they would offer more than one dump station," notes Rick C. about Schoodic Woods Campground.
Full hookup limitations: Water and electric are more common than sewer connections. "Not all sites full hookup but it's coming next year. Would stay again. Clean bathrooms but some showers don't have moveable shower head and that's tricky depending on your height," shares audra H. about her stay at Bar Harbor Campground.
