Mount Desert Island has over 100 miles of hiking trails and receives approximately 3.5 million visitors annually to Acadia National Park. The island's unique geography features granite peaks rising directly from the Atlantic, creating distinctive cabin camping opportunities within dense spruce-fir forests. Most cabin rentals near Mount Desert remain open from May through mid-October, with limited winter availability.
What to do
Coastal hiking trails: The Schoodic Woods Campground offers direct access to coastal hiking routes. "There is a six-mile loop that takes you along the beautiful rocky coast with views of lighthouses, islands, forests, and wetlands. An additional eight miles of carriage roads and four miles of hiking trails wind through the park," notes one visitor who appreciated the trail variety.
Kayak from your cabin: Many cabins at HTR Acadia have direct water access. "We could launch our kayaks directly from the site. (If you don't have a waterfront site, there are 2 water access areas that anyone can launch from). The kayaking from the park is very good, with protected access into Mt. Desert Narrows," explains a visitor who stayed at a waterfront cabin.
Stargazing opportunities: Bass Harbor area offers exceptional night sky viewing during clear nights. "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," reports a camper who stayed at Seawall Campground.
What campers like
Cabin options for larger groups: Smuggler's Den Campground provides cabins suitable for families and small groups. "Clean and accommodating. Camp store has firewood, ice and other essentials including live lobsters. Campground is extremely close to Acadia Nation Park and does have access to a few parts of the park within walking distance," writes a satisfied cabin guest.
Free transportation access: Island Explorer shuttle connects most cabin rental facilities. "The Island Explorer bus for Acadia National Park stops at the campground, so you have easy access without driving, if desired," explains a visitor who stayed at Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA cabins, where transportation options enhance the experience.
Cabin proximity to water: Waterfront cabin sites provide direct ocean views. "Stayed in one of their cabins out of season and really enjoyed it. Not far from the best Acadia hiking (like 20 minutes), has a nice view of the ocean, and the campground is well maintained and clean," shares a guest who appreciated the oceanfront location.
What you should know
Seasonal cabin availability: Most Mount Desert cabin rentals operate from mid-May through early October. "We stayed early in the season, before Memorial Day, and there were very few camp sites that were occupied. The site we chose was one of the premium ocean front lots and it was beautiful," reports a visitor at Narrows Too Camping Resort.
Advance reservations essential: During peak season (June-August), cabin bookings fill 3-6 months in advance. "This is a tough Campground to get into. Reservations are almost a must," advises a camper who visited Schoodic Woods Campground.
Cooking facilities vary: Bass Harbor Campground cabins include different cooking options. "Had space to prepare food as well as a microwave, fire pit, and grill for use. The showers and bathroom were well maintained and close to the cabins. Walking distance to the Bass Harbor Lighthouse and other National Park hiking trails," notes a honeymooning couple who stayed in a small cabin.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin locations for kids: Select cabins near playgrounds and pools for easier family trips. "Perfect location for those traveling with small kids, as it was just a stone's throw from both the bathhouse and playground," recommends a family who stayed at Smuggler's Den Campground.
Family-friendly activities: Hadley's Point Campground offers organized events for children. "The campground is on the Island Explorer bus route, which is a series of busses that take you to different areas of Acadia National Park and into the surrounding towns. Once you arrive at the campground, you wouldn't need to use your car again!" explains a family who stayed in a cabin with their two boys.
Bring your own linens: Most cabin rentals require guests to supply bedding. "The cabin contained a queen sized bed and a set of bunk beds. It also had a private bathroom with metered shower. 50 cents got you a hot, 7 minute shower, which was plenty of time! You need to supply your own linens and towels," advises a family who rented a camping cabin.
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives for RVers: Cabins provide options when RV sites are limited. "We bought our rv and headed out from Ohio the same night, on the path to get to our very first camping experience. The site we got had an awesome view of the water, and the campsites were not too close together," mentions a visitor to Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Laundry access: Several cabin facilities offer coin-operated laundry services for extended stays. "Coin-operated laundry room on-site, which was very convenient. Nice large dish washing sink on the outside of the bath house. The free Island Explorer shuttle bus also makes stops right at the office," notes a visitor appreciating the amenities.
Seasonal considerations: Spring and fall offer fewer crowds at cabin locations. "The shoulder season here is the best time to come. Preferably in the spring before mid-June or the fall when the leaves are changing color. Not all businesses and restaurants will be open before mid-June but you will have far less crowds than in the busy summer months," advises a visitor who appreciated the quieter experience.
