Sedgwick sits on the Blue Hill Peninsula, approximately 150 feet above sea level with cooling coastal breezes that keep summer temperatures comfortable even during July and August when inland areas become warmer. The region features a mix of forested inland areas and rocky coastal zones with campsites typically requiring advance booking 2-3 months ahead during peak season from June through September.
What to do
Hiking near Acadia: Seawall Campground provides easy access to Ship Harbor Trail and nearby coastal paths. "It was so pleasant to camp in relative seclusion after a day of exploring the scenic beauty and the many trails that twist around this fantastic national treasure. With coastal hikes so close, sunrise hikes and exploring the tide pools were outstanding!" shared one visitor at Seawall Campground.
Kayak from campsites: Launch directly from waterfront sites at multiple locations around the peninsula. A Bar Harbor KOA camper noted, "Beach front, able to swim and SUP right from the campsite. Amazing fire pit." HTR Acadia offers similar options with one visitor reporting, "We could launch our kayaks directly from the site. The kayaking from the park is very good, with protected access into Mt. Desert Narrows."
Stargazing opportunities: The region offers exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "Walk down to the beach just outside seawall on a clear night for some of the best stargazing you'll ever see," recommended a visitor to Bass Harbor Campground, which is within walking distance to Bass Harbor Head Light.
What campers like
Private beaches: Many coastal campsites provide direct ocean access with varying degrees of privacy. A visitor to Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls shared, "The campground is beautiful and well maintained! We went swimming at their beach and saw a seal!" Another camper appreciated "Very peaceful, quiet location with views of the Deer Isle bridge and access to walking the beach."
Outdoor showers: Several campgrounds feature unique shower facilities that campers specifically mention in reviews. "Hubby used the outdoor shower and thought it was great," noted one visitor about Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, while another camper specifically highlighted "a really nice outdoor shower" as a standout feature.
Access to island exploration: The Island Explorer shuttle system connects many campgrounds to key destinations. "The Island Explorer bus for Acadia National Park stops at the campground, so you have easy access without driving, if desired," explained a camper at Hadley's Point Campground, while another mentioned that "a free shuttle service to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park" was a valuable amenity.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly with substantial differences between sites. A visitor to Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA noted, "You reserve a type of site, and then for an additional fee can reserve a specific site, if desired." Another camper warned, "The 339-342 sites were literally bumper to bumper. It is a very, very busy campground."
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance planning while others operate on first-come systems. "The campground does not take reservations so you can pick whatever open site you want and if you want to extend your stay, you can," explained a Bar Harbor Campground visitor.
Shower facilities vary significantly: Options range from free to pay showers with different availability. "Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water," reported a Seawall camper, while another campground offers "metered shower. 50 cents got you a hot, 7 minute shower, which was plenty of time!"
Tips for camping with families
Unique accommodations for kids: Beyond standard camping, many properties offer distinctive options appealing to children. A visitor to Quietside Campground raved about their "hobbit" cabins, noting "My wife and I rented a 'hobbit' cabin for our anniversary for 3 nights at 50 dollars a night it was a great deal."
Look for on-site activities: Some campgrounds offer structured children's entertainment. A KOA visitor explained, "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."
Consider proximity to attractions: The distance to key destinations can impact family enjoyment. "Camden Hills State park is centrally located, just at the edge of downtown Camden. It provides a great home base for hiking, biking, kayaking and exploring the Camden/Rockland area," shared one family who stayed at Camden Hills State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many coastal campgrounds have tight spaces requiring careful selection for larger rigs. "We have a 19 ft travel trailer and are not very experienced with backing it up. The staff member was incredible with his directions and helped me back it into a small lot that went down hill and around a corner," shared a visitor about Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA.
Hook-up availability varies: The level of services can change throughout properties. "Not all sites are full hookup but it's coming next year," noted a Bar Harbor Campground visitor, while another explained their strategic approach: "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."
Site reservation strategies: Plan specific strategies for different types of campgrounds. "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.)."
