The Otis area sits on the doorstep of Downeast Maine, positioned between freshwater lakes and the Atlantic coastline. Winter temperatures average 20°F, while summer days typically reach 75-80°F with moderate humidity. Most RV campgrounds offer gravel pads with varying degrees of shade coverage, and early morning fog is common along waterfront sites throughout June.
What to do
Kayaking at dawn: Schoodic Peninsula offers protected paddling areas with wildlife viewing opportunities. "This has to be one of the prettiest campsites we've stayed in. On the water, shaded. Serene," notes a guest at Mainstay Cottages & RV Park.
Stargazing from RV sites: The region features certified dark sky areas with minimal light pollution. "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 visitor to West Bay Acadia RV Campground.
Autumn hiking: Fall foliage trails near Ellsworth offer less crowded alternatives to Acadia's main sections. "The campsite has a nice pond attached... We went at the end of September to visit Acadia National Park and the foliage was Beautiful! It wasn't even at its peak," reports a camper from Patten Pond Camping Resort.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many rv sites near Otis, Maine feature direct water access despite tidal fluctuations. "This is a large campground, right on Mount Desert Island, about 8 miles from Acadia NP. Most of the sites are pretty close together, but we got a site on the water with lots of room," explains a visitor at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Off-island quiet: Campgrounds outside Mount Desert Island offer tranquility away from tourist crowds. "If you're looking for a camp site close to Acadia without the crowd, look to MainStay in Winter Harbor. About an hours drive to the main Acadia but just 5 minutes to the Schoodic Peninsula," shares a camper.
Community gardens: Some campgrounds provide fresh produce for guests. "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," writes a visitor at West Bay Acadia RV Campground.
What you should know
Tidal considerations: Water access varies dramatically with 10-12 foot tidal changes. "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," warns a camper at Narrows Too.
Seasonal booking patterns: Late August through mid-October sees reduced availability. "It's in a very convenient location to Acadia. We camped here in late May 2019 so maybe they were still working on cleaning up after the winter (wet spring)," notes a visitor at Mt Desert Narrows.
Water quality concerns: Several campgrounds experience seasonal water discoloration. "There is defined an issue with the water. When we turned in the tap the water ran brown," mentions a camper at Narrows Too Camping Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Alternative grocery shopping: Save on grocery costs by planning ahead. "Tip: Grab groceries in Ellsworth if you want to save $. The kids loved playing on the playground and going down to the water at low tide," suggests a family staying at Mt Desert Narrows Camping Resort.
Child-friendly campground selection: Not all campgrounds cater to children. "This place is a hidden gem. I would primarily recommend this campsite for retirees and couples without children. The park doesn't offer many kid-friendly amenities beyond the pool," advises a visitor to Narrows Too.
Off-season family activities: Consider unconventional outdoor options during shoulder seasons. "There is a small beach at the lake where you can swim and kayak (for rent). People at the office are very nice, polite and accommodating," notes a camper at Patten Pond Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Many campgrounds have mixed terrain. "The site was easy to get into, and reasonably level. Lots of shade, and a steady breeze off the water," shares an RVer staying at Mt Desert Narrows.
Utilities positioning: RV sites near Otis feature variable hookup placements. "Most sites have two sewer hook-ups which is convenient because hook ups vary depending on RV type," explains a camper at Timberland Acres RV Park.
Road noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. "The sites in the 100's and 200's are near Route 3 which is a very busy road. Park staff is very accommodating and will let you move sites if you decide you prefer something different," advises an RVer at Narrows Too.
Big rig accommodation: Larger motorhomes have specific site requirements. "30 AMP, sewer & water hookup. Gravel site, no shade," notes an RVer at Timberland Acres, while another at Patten Pond adds, "There are sites in an open area much better suited for bigger rigs. They do not provide much in the way of privacy however."