Camping options near Salsbury Cove range from waterfront sites on Frenchman Bay to wooded spots tucked within Acadia National Park. The area experiences typical coastal Maine weather with summer temperatures averaging 70-75°F during peak camping season from June through September, though evening temperatures can drop into the 50s even in summer. Fall campers should prepare for temperatures dropping into the 40s at night with occasional fog rolling in from the bay.
What to do
Kayaking from campgrounds: Several camping areas offer direct water access for kayak launches without needing to travel. At Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA, campers can launch directly from waterfront sites. "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," notes Heather C.
Hiking to secluded areas: Trails connect directly to some campgrounds for immediate access to natural areas. At Smuggler's Den Campground, hiking trails connect to the back of the property. "You can pick up trails right from the campground and walk to a great beach in Acadia National Park," reports Jennifer P. This provides convenient access without needing to drive to trailheads.
Stargazing at Seawall: The dark skies near some campgrounds offer exceptional viewing opportunities. "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," shares Kyle R. about Seawall Campground. The relatively remote location away from Bar Harbor's lights creates ideal conditions for night sky viewing.
What campers like
Free island transportation: The Island Explorer shuttle system makes car-free exploration possible from many campgrounds. "The Island Explorer bus takes 50 minutes to get to Bar Harbor, by car it's closer to 30. There was really nothing to do at the campground except camp - no hikes or trails directly there," explains Karla J. B. The shuttle connects campers to various parts of Mount Desert Island and Acadia.
Quiet campgrounds away from crowds: Lamoine State Park Campground offers a peaceful alternative to busier locations. "Great place to camp outside the crazy tourist packed Acadia but only a 25 minute drive to the park. Very nice sites, flush toilets and showers. I got a lake view site but also forested sites available," shares Kaelin P. This state park provides access to the region with fewer crowds than campgrounds inside Acadia.
Modern facilities at Schoodic Woods: This newer campground section of Acadia offers updated amenities. "This campground is a gem! It is located on the Schoodic Peninsula which is the quieter side section of Acadia National Park but no less breathtaking. Here you get to enjoy the hiking and biking trails, amazing coastal scenery, quaint towns, and a peaceful campground in one of America's top 10 parks without the crowds and craziness of Bar Harbor," explains Nancy W.
What you should know
No reservation system at Bar Harbor Campground: Unlike most campgrounds in the area, this popular location operates on a different system. "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," describes Celeste M. Campers need to arrive early, especially during peak season.
Limited shower facilities at some campgrounds: Blackwoods Campground doesn't provide showers on-site. "We had to drive offsite to showers, though. The campground felt safe with Park Rangers walking around," mentions Roxanne R. This is common at several Acadia National Park campgrounds where pay showers are available nearby but not within the campground itself.
Bug protection essential: Mosquitoes can be particularly intense at certain campgrounds. "A short drive to the main part of the park & far enough away so that it's not crowded during busy weekends. 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 camping at Seawall. Bug activity is typically highest in June and early July.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for kids: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Salsbury Cove feature swimming pools that extend the water recreation options. "We have a tiny trailer that fits in a tent site. The site was adequate and not as close to the neighbors as I feared," shares Karla J.B. about their family stay at Seawall Campground.
Playground facilities: Hadley's Point Campground offers family-friendly amenities beyond just camping sites. "Our campsite had a fire ring and picnic table and room for our car. It felt a bit secluded from our neighbors thanks to the trees, but we could sometimes easily hear the neighbors to the back of us. There is firewood and ice available (even block ice!), laundry, showers, bathrooms (all of which were clean and nice), as well as a pool!" reports Jenna L.
Cabin options with bathrooms: Families seeking more comfort can find cabins with private facilities. "Our family of four (my Husband and I and our 2 boys) stayed in a camping cabin for 5 days at the end of June. 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!" shares Brandy N. about Hadley's Point.
Tips from RVers
Limited full hookups: Many campgrounds offer partial hookups only, with dump stations available. "A little bit unusual in that you can't make a reservation. We were able to drop in and get a nice RV site. Spent two comfortable nights. Rode our bicycles to Bar Harbor, a little over 12 miles round trip," notes Kevin W. about the Bar Harbor Campground.
Size restrictions at some campgrounds: Certain locations have limitations for larger RVs. "We chose this location to visit Acadia, Bar Harbor, and the island. We reserved a full hook up (back in), and were directed by an employee to our site. The sites are very close together, some are shaded, some not," reports Kristine B. RVers should carefully research site dimensions before booking.
Waterfront RV parking challenges: At oceanfront campgrounds, the prime waterfront spots may have specific limitations. "The Bar Harbor KOA delivered what it promised, but I am not sure we'd return. There are 196 tent, cottage, KOA Airstream, and personal rv sites, some of which are on the water. Some rv sites are full hookup, some only electric and water, but there is a dump station onsite," explains Heather C.
