Seal Harbor serves as a secluded gateway to Maine's coastal camping experiences, located on the southern shore of Mount Desert Island with an elevation of 75 feet above sea level. The area receives approximately 48 inches of precipitation annually, with summer temperatures averaging 75°F during peak camping season. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, making most glamping operations seasonal from May through October.
What to do
Kayaking from shoreline sites: At HTR Acadia, waterfront sites provide easy water access. "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.
Stargazing at remote beaches: Walking distance to shorelines makes night sky viewing exceptional. "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. from Seawall Campground.
Hiking coastal trails: Trails near Bass Harbor Campground connect to less-crowded park sections. "It was a great basepoint during mid-September to then explore Acadia NP. Definitely check out ship harbor trail and the seawall, both very close and walking distance from the campground," says Laura L., highlighting accessible paths outside the main park areas.
Wild blueberry picking: From mid-July through mid-August, some campgrounds offer free berry picking. "Mid July to Mid August free blueberries campside," mentions Tammy H. about Bar Harbor Campground, providing a seasonal activity unique to the region.
What campers like
Off-grid glamping experience: The quieter western side of Mount Desert Island offers more secluded luxury camping. "Campground was quiet with spaced out sites and had a really nice outdoor shower! Lori and staff were friendly and it was easy to call and book a spot. Really great views of the ocean and Deer Isle," reports Grace B. at Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls.
Hobbit-style accommodations: Quietside Campground features unique small dwellings. "My wife and I rented a 'hobbit' cabin for our anniversary for 3 nights at 50 dollars a night it was a great deal. The on site baths and showers were clean and maintained great," explains Micah B., describing budget-friendly themed accommodations.
Free shuttle transportation: Island Explorer bus service stops at multiple campgrounds. "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," explains Nancy W., noting the shuttle accepts bikes and pets.
First-come campsites: For flexible travelers, no-reservation options exist. "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," shares Celeste M. about Bar Harbor Campground.
What you should know
Shower logistics vary widely: Some campgrounds charge for showers while others include them. "Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water," notes Karla J.B. about Seawall Campground. Meanwhile, at Lamoine State Park Campground, "The showers in the separate facility up the road are expensive."
Site privacy differences: Waterfront sites typically sacrifice privacy for views. "Privacy between sites is lacking here - there are some sites that have a little bit of privacy between neighboring sites, and some have none at all," reports Ashlee L. about coastal camping options.
Reservations essential for premium sites: Waterfront glamping close to Seal Harbor, Maine books quickly. "You reserve a type of site, and then for an additional fee can reserve a specific site, if desired," mentions Heather C., explaining the two-tier reservation system at some properties.
Alternative gateway locations: Staying outside the main park provides quieter options. "Great option if you want to be close to Acadia but away from crowds," writes Heather C. about state park alternatives 20-30 minutes from the main attractions.
Tips for camping with families
Off-peak timing advantages: Mid-September offers reduced crowds while maintaining amenities. "It poured all night so we took off pretty early. There is so much to see in the area that you won't want to spend much time hanging around in one spot," advises Joshua B., highlighting the value of shoulder-season visits with children.
Platform tent sites for comfort: Many luxury glamping sites near Seal Harbor include raised wooden platforms. "Sites were spaced out enough for privacy. We had a site with a wooden platform that was perfectly level. There was enough tree cover that we didn't get soaked during the rain," shares Les R. from Quietside Campground.
Kid-friendly amenities: Pools and playgrounds provide entertainment between outdoor adventures. "my daughter begs to camp here. 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," explains Melissa N.
Cabin options for rainy weather: Cabins with electricity provide weatherproof accommodations. "My husband and I stayed here for our honeymoon to Acadia National Park! We stayed in a small cabin and it was perfect for our stay. Weather was a bit cold when we were there (October 2018), but there was a space heater," Rachel K. notes about Bass Harbor Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some RV sites require significant effort to level. "Many sites are not flat and require significant leveling if in an RV," warns Heather C. about Lamoine State Park Campground, highlighting terrain considerations.
Premium site selection strategy: At Bar Harbor Campground, experienced RVers recommend: "When you arrive, you get a map, find an empty site, get set-up and then go back to the office to register. Once you're in the park if you want a different site that has a better view or FHU's, the best thing to do is drive or walk around the section you are interested in and if you see someone packing up put a personal item (chair, table cloth, etc.)."
Full hookup availability: Luxury glamping sites vary in utility access. "Not all sites full hookup but it's coming next year. Would stay again," reports audra H., noting upcoming improvements to Bar Harbor Campground.
RV size limitations: Larger rigs face challenges at some oceanfront locations. "Decent campground if you are small and can get some shade otherwise you are in a field with little or no shade," advises Marilyn L. about campsite options, highlighting the trade-offs between rig size and shade availability.
