Camping options near Old Town, Maine provide access to forests, lakes, and coastal areas across central and eastern Maine. The region sits at elevations ranging from sea level to approximately 650 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 65-80°F during peak camping season. The area experiences significant tidal changes of 10-12 feet in coastal locations, which affects water activities and campsite selection.
What to do
Kayaking from waterfront sites: At Mainstay Cottages & RV Park in Winter Harbor, campers can access ocean paddling directly from the park. "Located on Winter Harbor, great views. Steps away from the small ferry that goes to Bar Harbor and a few minutes to Schoodic Peninsula," notes Mark C. The park offers rental equipment and access to Winter Harbor.
Explore Schoodic Peninsula: This less-crowded section of Acadia National Park is accessible from nearby RV sites. "Just ten minutes away is the Schoodic Woods section of Acadia– a less busy and equally beautiful area of the National Park. Plus, there are many nearby nature preserves and public lands that have great hiking," explains a camper at West Bay Acadia RV Campground.
Visit Fort Knox Observatory: From Patten Pond Camping Resort, visitors can take day trips to historical sites. "Visit Bar Harbor, Cadillac Mtn, Fort Knox Observatory," recommends Donna A. The observatory offers panoramic views of the Penobscot River and is approximately 45 minutes from the campground.
What campers like
Water views with tidal experiences: West Bay Acadia RV Campground offers waterfront sites with unique tidal viewing. "The campground is right on the water and there is a nice path leading to an overlook and down to the water which is tidal. There is a beautiful cleared spot at the waters edge with a swing so you can enjoy the view and watch the tides (and seals come and go)," one camper observes.
Dark sky viewing: Some campgrounds minimize light pollution. "Another great thing about this park is that it is a certified dark sky park. Campers are asked to turn outside lights off so there is no light noise to interfere with the beautiful sky full of stars, planets, and meteor showers," mentions a West Bay visitor.
Community gardens: Several campgrounds offer unique amenities. "We love the free community garden which has a wonderful selection of produce including strawberries, tomatillos, fresh herbs, beans, lettuces, etc. Feel free to pick whatever you will eat, just leave some for others," reports a camper at West Bay Acadia.
What you should know
Seasonal operating schedules: Most RV parks near Old Town have limited seasons. Timberland Acres RV Park operates "Mid May to Mid Oct," while Pleasant Hill Campground runs "May 1 to Columbus Day." Plan accordingly if traveling in shoulder seasons.
Variable amenities between parks: Not all campgrounds offer full facilities. "There is no bathhouse so all units must be self-contained," notes a West Bay camper, while another visitor at Timberland Acres states, "Showers & bathhouse was clean and showers were some of the best I've had on a campground. Good water pressure & hot."
Tidal impacts on water activities: Coastal campgrounds have significant tidal considerations. "You have about a four-hour window to paddle because of the tides. You will be left walking across muddy soft clam flats if you are not mindful of the 10-12 foot tides," warns a West Bay visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities timing: When staying at coastal Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort, plan water activities around tides. "The kids loved playing on the playground and going down to the water at low tide," shares Kasey M., though other campers note "while the tide is out it's just a gross area of mud, muck, and rocks."
Grocery planning: Shop strategically to save money. "Tip: Grab groceries in Ellsworth if you want to save $," recommends a Mt Desert Narrows camper. The town of Ellsworth offers more affordable grocery options than tourist areas.
Campground selection for kid-friendly amenities: Not all parks cater to children. "I would primarily recommend this campsite for retirees and couples without children. The park doesn't offer many kid-friendly amenities beyond the pool, so families with young children might find it lacking in entertainment options," advises Paulina B. about Narrows Too Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Narrows Too Camping Resort, site location significantly affects experience. "Some nice sites, but definitely at a premium. No extra amenities. We were given a site along the highway, and I was very unhappy there. The site isn't even in the main campground area," reports Katie, recommending careful site selection.
Level sites and hookup placement: RVers appreciate well-designed sites at Pumpkin Patch RV Resort. "Most sites are level and there are long pull thrus so you don't have to unhitch if you are only staying one night," explains a visitor. Another notes, "All the hook-ups were well-placed and we did not need extensions to connect."
Wi-Fi and connectivity: Internet access varies significantly between parks. "The Wi-Fi is so awesome that you are given free reign to stream, zoom, or surf without restrictions," reports a West Bay camper, while another visitor at a different park mentions, "Only real disappointment was lack of cell coverage for AT&T and if you want internet you must buy a package."
