The southwest region of Mount Desert Island offers numerous pet-friendly camping options for visitors with dogs. Several campgrounds near Seal Cove feature wooded sites that provide natural shade during summer months, with many situated within a 15-20 minute drive of Acadia National Park's western trails. The area's unique position along the "quiet side" of the island creates more secluded camping experiences with fewer crowds than the eastern portion.
What to do
Beach access for dogs: Echo Lake beach welcomes pets and can be reached directly from Smuggler's Den Campground via hiking trails. "You can pick up trails right from the campground and walk to a great beach in Acadia National Park," notes Jennifer P., highlighting the convenient access without needing transportation.
Stargazing opportunities: The western side of Mount Desert Island offers exceptional night sky viewing areas. "A 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," explains Kyle R. from Seawall Campground, where the location away from town lights creates ideal viewing conditions.
Kayaking from campsites: Several waterfront campgrounds offer direct water access for kayakers. At Somes Sound View Campground, Sam L. reports: "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."
What campers like
Natural privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded spots than others. "The tent sites are very private. We felt safe and secure. It's quiet and the staff was very friendly," shares Melissa N. about her experience at Smuggler's Den Campground, which features sites with greater separation than many other area options.
Free transportation options: The Island Explorer shuttle service connects most major campgrounds with Acadia National Park and nearby towns. At Bar Harbor Campground, Nancy W. appreciates that "there is the Island Explorer (free) shuttle that have various routes and stops on Mount Desert Island and Acadia NP. The shuttle stops at the campground so you can hitch a ride downtown or to the park and not have to worry about parking."
Cleanliness of facilities: Many dog-friendly campgrounds near Seal Cove maintain high standards for restrooms and common areas. "The bathrooms were very clean showers are 25 cents/5 minutes," notes TJ S., who stayed at Somes Sound View Campground for five days.
What you should know
Reservations vs. first-come systems: While most campgrounds require advance booking, some operate differently. "This campground does not take reservations so you can pick whatever open site you want and if you want to extend your stay, you can," explains Nancy W. about Bar Harbor Campground, where campers select available sites upon arrival.
Off-site shower locations: Not all campgrounds provide shower facilities on premises. At Blackwoods Campground, Joseph N. advises: "There are pay showers a little down the road from the campground," which typically cost $1.50-2.00 for a timed shower session.
Limited generator hours: Many campgrounds restrict when generators can be used to maintain a peaceful environment. "There are no hookups and limited generator hours, but there is a dump site and water available to fill," Laura L. explains about one campground, which helps maintain quiet for dog owners with noise-sensitive pets.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: For families with both children and dogs, some sites offer better access to amenities. At Bass Harbor Campground, Melissa N. found that "it has a pool, which my daughter loved but I much preferred going down the road to the lake to swim. It's walking distance to the Bass Harbor Head Light, and that is just beautiful."
Activity options for kids: Several dog-friendly campgrounds provide organized events for children. "As with any KOA they have lots of activities throughout the day for families, and a pool, but she loves the ice pop contest. If you find a painted rock and bring it to the office you get a free ice pop," shares Melissa N. about Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA.
Site selection for tents: Families using tents should consider platform availability. "Very large tent sites include wooden platforms that keep sleeping areas dry during rain," while Chuck Y. notes that at his campground, there were "good flat surfaces for sleeping" which helps ensure comfort for all family members, including pets.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: RV campers seeking more secluded spots should look toward specific campground sections. At Hadley's Point Campground, Karla J.B. observed: "We were in loop C with huge RVs much closer together than the other loops. That being said, we still got to stay in Acadia. The site was adequate and not as close to the neighbors as I feared."
Water and electric considerations: RV campers should note variations in hookup availability. "All different types of sites are available from FHU, electric/water, or primitive sites. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring," reports Nancy W., noting that some sections have better shade than others.
Road navigation challenges: Some campgrounds present access difficulties for larger rigs. Nancy W. notes: "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," advice particularly valuable for those traveling with dogs who need quick access to outdoor spaces upon arrival.
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