Mount Desert Island in Maine sits at the intersection of dense forests and the Atlantic coastline, with elevation ranging from sea level to 1,532 feet at Cadillac Mountain. Located primarily within Acadia National Park, the island experiences fog during summer mornings while fall brings crisp temperatures and colorful foliage. Most glamping options in Mount Desert operate from May through October, with July and August being peak season.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: At Seawall Campground, the night sky reveals spectacular celestial views when conditions are right. "The night was clear, the stars out, and the sounds of the Atlantic nearby made a superb camping experience. With coastal hikes so close, sunrise hikes and exploring the tide pools were outstanding!" according to Steve M. For serious stargazers, cross the street from your campsite to the beach for even better viewing conditions.
Kayak directly from your site: Several campgrounds offer water access for paddling. At HTR Acadia, waterfront sites provide immediate water entry. "We stayed at two different sites during my stay due to my first one being reserved after my fourth night. Both sites were very nice. The sites were equipped with hammock trees, fire rings, picnic tables, and even running water and electricity!" notes Sam L.
Blueberry picking: Mid-July through August offers an unexpected seasonal activity at Bar Harbor Campground. "Mid July to Mid August free blueberries campside," explains Tammy H. This first-come, first-served campground provides access to wild blueberry patches that campers can harvest during peak season.
What campers like
Convenient transportation: The Island Explorer shuttle system connects many campgrounds to Acadia National Park attractions. At Hadley's Point Campground, campers appreciate this service. "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, and it was super helpful because you do not want to try and find parking in Acadia in the peak season," notes Jenna L.
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower quality ranks high on camper priorities, especially for those trying luxury camping or glamping in Mount Desert. "The bathrooms were very clean showers are 25 cents/5 minutes. There is a really nice large swimming pool perched right along the water, nice little nature trails/dog walking areas, laundry, game room, shuffleboard, playground, water access, arcade, and more," reports Nancy W. about Bar Harbor Campground.
Privacy between sites: At Quietside Campground, many tent sites offer good spacing and tree cover. "Sites were spaced out enough for privacy. We had a site with a wooden platform that was perfectly level. There was a enough tree cover that we didn't get soaked during the rain," shares Les R. The campground features wooden platforms that help with tent setup and comfort during rain.
What you should know
First-come, first-served options: Some campgrounds don't take reservations. "Is a first come first serve campground. Show up find an empty spot. Pay for it and it's yours. I first had a tent space facing the ocean $36. Very close to the Pool for one night. Next morning I found an electric and water spot $40 close by and moved," explains Celeste M. about Bar Harbor Campground.
Hot shower variations: Shower facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. Some require quarters, others are free, and hours vary. "Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water," reports Karla J.B. about Seawall Campground. Consider this when choosing between traditional camping and luxury glamping in Mount Desert.
Mosquito preparation: Bug activity can be intense, especially in wooded areas. "Just remember to bring a ton of bug repellent, or opt to go during the months where bugs are less mild," advises Kyle R. from Seawall Campground. Late September typically offers fewer insect issues than peak summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lamoine State Park offers family-friendly amenities including a playground on park grounds. "The bathrooms and showers are cleaned regularly and the price for camping is great. There is a playground on the way to the ocean view!" notes Shelby L. This state park provides a more affordable alternative to private campgrounds with similar amenities.
Swimming options: Multiple swimming locations let kids cool off after hiking. "There is a day use area with a boat launch. Loved hearing the water on the shore at night, and the fishing boats heading out in the morning," shares Lisa G. about Lamoine State Park Campground, which offers water access within walking distance from many campsites.
Cabin alternatives: For families new to glamping in Mount Desert, cabins offer a middle ground between tents and hotels. "My husband and I stayed here for our honeymoon to Acadia National Park! We stayed in a small cabin and it was perfect for our stay. Weather was a bit cold when we were there (October 2018), but there was a space heater," recalls Rachel K. from Bass Harbor Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV sites vary significantly in size, levelness, and hookup availability. "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," advises audra H. about Bar Harbor Campground.
Arrival timing strategy: For campgrounds without reservations, early arrival improves site selection chances. "Come in early morning and wait for others to leave to grab the best sites. Or grab what ever is available and look the next morning for who leaves the better sites," recommends Tammy H. This approach works well at Bar Harbor Campground for securing premium RV spots.
Leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the Mount Desert region have uneven terrain. "Some sites have more buffer than others, but in general I would not say that there is great privacy between sites. Many sites are not flat and require significant leveling if in an RV," Heather C. notes about Lamoine State Park Campground.
