Southwest Harbor sits on the southwestern side of Mount Desert Island, Maine, with elevations ranging from sea level to around 600 feet at some nearby peaks. The camping season typically runs from May through mid-October with temperatures averaging 70-80°F in summer and 50-60°F during fall. Campsites near Southwest Harbor often feature gravel pads with varying degrees of tree coverage.
What to do
Kayaking on local waters: Many campgrounds provide water access or rentals. At West Bay Acadia RV Campground, "There is a nice path leading to an overlook and down to the water which is tidal. There is a beautiful cleared spot at the waters edge with a swing so you can enjoy the view and watch the tides (and seals come and go)."
Explore the Schoodic Peninsula: Located approximately 45 minutes from most campgrounds, this less crowded section of Acadia National Park offers similar beauty without the crowds. "Just ten minutes away is the Schoodic Woods section of Acadia– a less busy and equally beautiful area of the National Park," notes a visitor at West Bay Acadia RV.
Visit local farms and wineries: Several organic farms and wineries operate near camping areas. "There is a wonderful organic farm down the road and a couple of local wineries are nearby," according to a camper who stayed at Mainstay Cottages & RV Park in Winter Harbor.
What campers like
Smaller communities over Bar Harbor: Many campers prefer the quieter towns near Southwest Harbor. "The smaller island towns of Northwest Harbor and Southwest Harbor were more our style than the touristy Bar Harbor," shares a reviewer who stayed at Narrows Too Camping Resort.
Dark sky viewing: Some campgrounds minimize light pollution for stargazing. At West Bay Acadia RV Campground, "Another great thing about this park is that it is a certified dark sky park. Campers are asked to turn outside lights off so there is no light noise to interfere with the beautiful sky full of stars, planets, and meteor showers."
Free shuttle access: The Island Explorer shuttle connects many campgrounds to key destinations. "During the summer season, there is a free shuttle taking you (and bikes and dogs) to various locations throughout the island and within the park," notes a Narrows Too visitor.
What you should know
Waterfront sites have tidal considerations: The 10-12 foot tides affect waterfront activities. At Moorings Oceanfront RV Resort, "You will be left walking across muddy soft clam flats if you are not mindful of the 10-12 foot tides."
Pricing varies widely: Campsite costs range significantly based on location and amenities. "Prices range from the $30's to over $100 depending on where you want to camp. The waterfront sites ('300's' section) have great views but are very pricey," explains a camper at Narrows Too.
Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds: Spring and fall provide better camping experiences. "The shoulder season here is the best time to come. Preferably in the spring before mid-June or the fall when the leaves are changing color. Not all businesses and restaurants will be open before mid-June but you will have far less crowds than in the busy summer months."
Tips for camping with families
Seek out campgrounds with amenities: Not all rv parks near Southwest Harbor offer family-friendly facilities. A reviewer at Patten Pond Camping Resort notes, "The campsite has a nice pond attached, it also has apartments with bathrooms as well as small cottages with out bathrooms."
Avoid peak cruise ship days: Large cruise ships impact town crowding. "Fall is a beautiful time to visit but be aware that many cruise ships frequent Bar Harbor. Some days will find over 6,000 cruise ship passengers and staff flooded into the downtown."
Consider local seafood options: Many campers enjoy seafood from local sources rather than restaurants. "C-Ray Lobster offers a good lobster dinner in a casual atmosphere that is much less expensive than lobster pounds downtown Bar Harbor (and it is BYOB). Downeast Lobster Pound is our favorite place to buy lobster."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: RV parks Southwest Harbor, Maine and surroundings offer varied site types. At Timberland Acres RV Park, "We had a nice pull through site with full hook ups. Most are pretty close to each other, ours was wider but faced another camper who faced us. It really didn't matter as we spent our time at Acadia and Bar Harbor."
Cell and internet considerations: Coverage varies by location and provider. "Our Verizon 4G phone and Hotspot worked great but we mostly used their free wifi which worked very well," reports a camper at Moorings Oceanfront RV Resort.
Shopping strategy: RVers recommend shopping in specific locations. "Grab groceries in Ellsworth if you want to save $," advises a camper at Narrows Too.
Legend
