HTR Acadia campground on Mount Desert Island provides waterfront camping along Somes Sound, with views of the Atlantic Ocean where campers report seeing dolphins and seals. Sites include both wooded inland options and premium waterfront locations on platforms. The campground has a swimming pool and offers camping accommodations for tents, RVs, and cabins with water and electric hookups at most sites.
What to do
Explore Acadia National Park: The nearby national park offers extensive hiking trails and scenic drives just minutes from HTR Acadia. "Proximity to Acadia National Park, Southwest Harbor, and all the great things to do in the area is perfect," notes Ian P., who found the campground when state parks closed due to Covid.
Water activities: The oceanfront location provides opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and coastal exploration. Campers can launch directly from the campground's waterfront area. "We stayed right by the water and it was just breath taking," reports Ashley L., highlighting the appeal of the coastal setting.
Wildlife viewing: The campground's location on Somes Sound creates opportunities to observe local wildlife. During evening hours, some campers report hearing coyotes in the area. According to Sam L., "One of the nights we heard a bunch of coyotes howling nearby which was pretty cool."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Premium waterfront campsites offer direct ocean views. "Highly recommend the waterfront sites. Some of the sites are small but the view makes up for it," advises Jessica P., who appreciated the ocean vista despite more compact spaces.
Clean facilities: The campground maintains clean shower houses and restrooms. TJ S. stayed for 5 days and noted that "the bathrooms were clean and well placed," while also mentioning that "there was plenty of firewood available cheap."
Privacy between sites: Most campsites offer good separation and natural screening. "90% of the sites are well shaded, and most have plenty of room," reports Ian P., who found the campground to be "definitely a tent friendly place."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Not all sites are equally desirable or level. "Do your research not all the sites here are created equal," warns Ian P. Thomas R. specifically suggests avoiding "campsite 14" because "the parking spot is about six feet above the camping area, and the camping area is not especially level."
Sound travels over water: While waterfront sites offer premium views, they can experience more noise from other campers. Jess Y. found her waterfront platform site "stunning" and "peaceful, until it wasn't," when "a very noisy group of young adults show up around 9pm and were up until 3 in the morning chatting and laughing."
Water hookups position: Some RV sites have utilities positioned in non-standard locations. Rita notes that "our site has water and electric on the wrong side," so campers with RVs should prepare with extension cords or longer hoses.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: The campground features a swimming pool that provides alternative recreation for children when ocean conditions are unsuitable. "Great pool and other facilities," mentions Ian P., making the campground suitable for families with children.
Noise levels vary: Family campers should be aware that noise levels can fluctuate. Meghan S. reports having "very loud neighbors" during one visit but still rates the campground highly for "great service, clean, affordable!"
Advanced reservations required: Waterfront sites book quickly, especially during peak season. Thomas R. advises that you "don't expect to get a water front spot unless you reserve well in advance, even during the week."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many sites require some leveling for RVs, particularly on the hillside areas. Rita found the sites to be "nice size, fairly private and mostly level," making setup relatively straightforward for most rigs.
WiFi quality: Unlike many rural campgrounds, the internet connection here works well for those needing to stay connected. TJ S. noted that "Water pressure was low, but the WiFi was awesome," providing a reliable connection for remote work or entertainment.
Alternative horse campgrounds: For equestrians seeking accommodations near Sandy Point, Maine, note that HTR Acadia does not offer horse camping facilities. Equestrians will need to seek specialized horse campgrounds with appropriate corrals and trailer parking elsewhere in the region, as no equestrian camping options exist at this location.
