Several dog-friendly campgrounds dot the coastal region near Sedgwick, Maine, situated on the Blue Hill Peninsula at approximately 100 feet above sea level. The area experiences mild summer temperatures averaging 75°F during daytime with cool 55°F nights, creating comfortable conditions for camping with pets. These maritime climate patterns make for predictable camping conditions even when the region sees occasional coastal fog.
What to Do
Morning beach explorations: At Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, pets can join you on the rocky shoreline where some campers report wildlife sightings. "We went swimming at their beach and saw a seal!" notes Michael K., highlighting the accessible water activities available for both humans and pets.
Hiking with dogs: The trails around Acadia National Park welcome leashed pets on most paths. "Lots of cool trails to explore within the campground and lots of privacy! Facilities were clean and it was very dog friendly," shares Molly G. about Blackwoods Campground. The carriage roads in Acadia provide excellent terrain for walking dogs of all abilities.
Kayaking excursions: Some campgrounds offer direct water access for launching kayaks with your dog. "We could launch our kayaks directly from the site," notes Heather C. about her waterfront spot at Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA. The protected waters of Mount Desert Narrows provide calm paddling conditions ideal for bringing along a well-behaved dog.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of pet-friendly campgrounds in the region. "The bathrooms are very clean with running water, electricity, and a dish-wash station," explains Geneva H. about Bass Harbor Campground, which makes longer stays with pets more comfortable.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campgrounds maintain peaceful environments conducive to camping with pets. "Beautiful, quiet location with views of the deer isle bridge and access to walking the beach. Owners are so nice and friendly and accommodating," shares Jillian B. about Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, emphasizing the relaxed setting.
Island Explorer shuttle service: The free shuttle allows visitors with pets to explore without driving. "The shuttle 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. about Seawall Campground, noting the transportation options.
What You Should Know
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds have significantly different site layouts and conditions. "90% of the sites are well shaded, and most have plenty of room. Do your research not all the sites here are created equal," advises Ian P. about HTR Acadia, formerly Somes Sound View Campground.
Shower facilities vary: Some campgrounds offer free showers while others charge. "They had nice clean bathroom facilities with running water, electricity, and a dish-wash station. The best part was the hot showers. It was so nice after a full day of hiking and biking to wash off in a warm shower," shares Geneva H. about Bass Harbor Campground.
Limited services nearby: The rural location means planning ahead for supplies. "The location is very rural so little nearby things to do or places to eat. But that was part of the charm," notes Deborah W. about Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, highlighting the need to bring provisions.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Family-friendly amenities vary between campgrounds. "The kids loved playing on the playground and going down to the water at low tide. There is a kayak launch as well, and pool," shares Kasey M. about Mt. Desert Narrows Camping Resort, listing features that entertain children.
Activity planning: Some campgrounds offer organized activities for kids. "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. about Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA.
Site privacy for families: Finding quieter areas within larger campgrounds helps with family camping. "We tent camp, without power, so we are way out back. No car noise, Private, a bit of a walk to the showers and bathrooms but the privacy is worth it," shares Melissa N. about KOA, noting the trade-off between amenity access and seclusion.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites offer varying levels of service. "We had an amazing experience at this campground. Small, very friendly and welcoming staff. Not all campsites had full hookup and we were told that one of the dump stations worked, but as we were leaving, we realized it didn't," reports Megan F. about Mt. Desert Narrows.
Site leveling: The terrain impacts setup difficulty. "The site was easy to get into, and reasonably level. Lots of shade, and a steady breeze off the water," notes Joel R. about Mt. Desert Narrows Camping Resort, describing conditions favorable for RV camping.
Space limitations: RVs have specific constraints at some campgrounds. "We have a tiny trailer that fits in a tent site. But when reserving online, being unfamiliar with the campground, we were prompted to enter the total length of trailer + vehicle. That put us in loop C with huge RVs much closer together than the other loops," shares Karla J.B. about Seawall Campground, advising careful site selection.
