Mount Desert Island sits on Maine's rocky coast, connected to the mainland by a causeway, with granite mountains rising over 1,500 feet above sea level. The island experiences cooler temperatures than inland areas, with summer highs typically in the 70s and frequent morning fog. Most campgrounds on the island have specific dog areas and designated walking trails with waste stations away from tent sites.
What to do
Kayaking from waterfront sites: Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA offers direct water access for paddlers. "We could launch our kayaks directly from the site. The kayaking from the park is very good, with protected access into Mt. Desert Narrows," notes camper Heather C.
Stargazing at coastal spots: The dark skies over Mount Desert offer exceptional nighttime viewing. "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," says Kyle R. about Seawall Campground.
Hiking from campsites: Several pet-friendly campgrounds connect directly to trails. "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," explains Nancy W. about Schoodic Woods Campground.
Blueberry picking in season: Some campgrounds offer on-site berry picking from mid-July to mid-August. "Blueberry fields free to pick July to August," shares Tammy H. about Bar Harbor Campground.
What campers like
Off-season tranquility: September and early October provide more peaceful camping experiences. "We got a last minute site here in mid September. Quiet and peaceful. Plenty of space and privacy between sites," notes Cheryl K. about Schoodic Woods Campground.
Walk-in tent sites: Many campers prefer the more secluded walk-in options. "I'd say the campground was above average. They had nice clean bathroom facilities with running water, electricity, and a dish-wash station. The sites are all walk-to sites so you're not right on top of each other with a bunch of RV's and generators," reports Chuck Y. about Seawall.
Dish washing stations: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated washing areas outside bathrooms. "A dish-washing station if located at the bathrooms which is really handy and kept clean," shares Nancy W. about Schoodic Woods.
Local wildlife viewing: "During the sun set, a lot of people are out on the rocks, which are directly in front of some of the waterfront sites. The kayaking from the park is very good, with protected access into Mt. Desert Narrows," describes Heather C. about Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA.
What you should know
No-reservation options: Unlike many Acadia area campgrounds, some sites operate on a first-come basis. "This is a first come first serve campground. Show up find an empty spot. Pay for it and it's yours," explains Celeste M. about Bar Harbor Campground.
Shower facilities vary widely: Some campgrounds have no showers while others charge fees. "Showers were 25 cents/5 minutes. There is a really nice large swimming pool perched right along the water," reports Nancy W. about Bar Harbor Campground.
Campsite reservation flexibility: Some campgrounds let you change sites during your stay. "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.
Bug seasons: Insect activity varies by location and month. "Just remember to bring a ton of bug repellent, or opt to go during the months where bugs are less mild," advises Kyle R. about Seawall Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access considerations: Several dog-friendly campgrounds offer pools for kids. "We tent camp, without power, so we are way out back. No car noise, Private, a bit of a walk to the showers and bathrooms but the privacy is worth it. my daughter begs to camp here. As with any KOA they have lots of activities throughout the day for families," shares Melissa N. about Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA.
Ranger programs: Some campgrounds offer educational activities. "Great nightly ranger programs," mentions Michelle H. about Schoodic Woods Campground.
Playground access: Several pet-welcoming campgrounds have play areas. "Nice site one close to the playground. Free shuttle service to Acadia and Bar Harbor available," reports Kristine B. about Hadley's Point Campground.
Cabin options with dogs: Several campgrounds offer pet-friendly cabins. "We stayed in the Potting Shed cabin for 3 nights. Bathroom was clean and had plenty of sinks, toilets and showers. Water was hot for showers and there was a nice dressing area," shares Cheryl K. about Bass Harbor Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV spots vary significantly in size and privacy. "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. Not an awful site, but it did not work well at all for my usual set up," advises Thomas R. about HTR Acadia.
Water pressure considerations: Water systems can vary significantly between campgrounds. "When we turned in the tap the water ran brown," warns Lynette L. about Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort, while another notes "Good water pressure" at Bar Harbor Campground.
Tight corners: Some campgrounds have challenging turns for larger rigs. "Roads in the park are paved but some corners can be a little tight for big-rigs, best to unhitch your tow car up front in case you have to back up," suggests Nancy W. about Bar Harbor Campground.
Pet-friendly hookup sites: Most full-service RV sites welcome dogs. "We have a tiny trailer that fits in a tent site. But when reserving online, being unfamiliar with the campground, we were prompted to enter the total length of trailer + vehicle. That put us in loop C with huge RVs much closer together than the other loops," explains Karla J.B. about Seawall Campground.
Guide
