Dispersed camping near Sorrento, Maine offers limited options due to land ownership patterns, with most camping concentrated in established campgrounds. The Schoodic Peninsula section of Acadia National Park, located about 10 miles from Sorrento, provides the closest dedicated camping facilities. Winter temperatures in the region average 14-35°F while summer ranges from 52-79°F, making late May through mid-October the optimal camping season.
What to do
Kayaking from campground docks: At Mount Desert Campground, campers can rent double kayaks to explore Somes Sound. "We rented double kayaks from the front office for 2 hours and kayaked Somes Sound - it was beautiful water & amazing exploring! A bit more difficult with the ocean currents vs lake kayaking, so keep that in mind with kids," notes Whitney W.
Crabbing and water activities: Some campgrounds offer direct water access with equipment rentals. "The BEST part of this campground for our family was Somes Sound and the floating docks. We purchased a crab bucket with net from the coffee shop one morning for around $10-12. It was well worth it as my kids crab gigged for HOURS off the docks every day!" according to a Mount Desert Campground visitor.
Shuttle service to avoid parking hassles: Schoodic Woods Campground provides convenient transportation around the peninsula. "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., highlighting the importance of transportation when staying away from main attractions.
What campers like
Quieter alternatives to crowded areas: Seawall Campground offers a more peaceful experience. "I think the seawall campground is slightly quieter than the other campgrounds in Acadia. They are all really nice and Acadia is great!" shares Michael K. Another camper added, "A short drive to the main part of the park & far enough away so that it's not crowded during busy weekends."
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate spacing between sites. At Blackwoods Campground, a reviewer noted, "Despite being a fully booked campground our stay was very enjoyable. It was quiet, other campers were respectful. The bathrooms are dated but clean. There is a designated dishwashing drain to keep animals away from the campsites."
Waterfront views and access: Oceanfront sites are highly valued but often difficult to secure. "The sites on the water all have beautiful views. There is no power/sewer/water at any of the sites. There are water faucets around the campground, and a dump station near the entrance," explains a Lamoine State Park visitor who appreciated the waterfront camping option despite the lack of hookups.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary significantly: While most campgrounds require advance reservations, Bar Harbor Campground operates differently. "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," explains Celeste M.
Facilities and amenities: Shower availability differs between campgrounds. At Seawall Campground, "There are restrooms in the campground, but no shower houses. The shower house is located in a separate facility about a mile from the campground entrance. A bit inconvenient, but not terrible."
Off-peak opportunities: September provides better availability. "We tried staying here in the summer a few years back and it filled up weeks ahead of time. We got lucky this trip and got one spot open same day," notes Aly E. about Blackwoods Campground, highlighting the advantage of shoulder season visits.
Tips for camping with families
Platform tent sites for comfort: Some campgrounds offer raised platforms for tents. "Great stay! Bathrooms are clean and well maintained with showers. Campground within 15 minute drive from Bar Harbor and Park Loop Trail. Breathtaking views from the lake! We stayed in a platform site. It was better than expected," shares Heather B. about Hadley's Point Campground.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with organized events. "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," mentions Melissa N. about Bar Harbor Oceanside KOA.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas. "The park has a day use area and a public boat launch. You could launch a kayak from the park. The day use area is lovely, as is the launch area," notes a Lamoine State Park visitor, mentioning amenities that keep kids entertained.
Tips from RVers
Campground accessibility limitations: Many campgrounds restrict larger rigs. At Acadia Seashore Camping and Cabins, RVers should note that "There were great sunrises and sunsets at the park. The water access areas has a number of chairs for sitting and relaxing, or people walk out on the rocks. During the sun set, a lot of people are out on the rocks, which are directly in front of some of the waterfront sites."
Dump station availability: Plan accordingly for waste management. "There is one dump station for Loop B. Each RV took about 15 minutes. If you are third in line, you will be waiting... Since there is no sewer, you would think they would offer more than one dump station," warns Rick C. about Schoodic Woods.
Cell service reliability: Connectivity varies significantly. "WiFi was non-existent unless you got a site near the main office. Cellular reception was very mediocre. If you want to lose contact with family, friends, business... this is the place to go," notes an RVer, highlighting an important consideration for those needing to stay connected.
