Glamping in Surry, Maine positions visitors 30-45 minutes from Acadia National Park's entrance while offering a quieter alternative to Bar Harbor's tourist-heavy atmosphere. Located along Maine's rocky coastline with elevations ranging from sea level to 500 feet, the Surry region experiences summer high temperatures averaging 75°F with cooler 50-60°F evenings even during peak season, making climate control in glamping accommodations particularly valuable from June through September.
What to do
Lighthouse exploration: 10-minute walk from Bass Harbor Campground to Bass Harbor Head Light provides sunset photography opportunities without parking hassles. "It's walking distance to the Bass Harbor Head Light, and that is just beautiful. Rarely is there ample parking at the light, so walking from your site has its advantages," notes Melissa N.
Kayak launches: Water access sites at HTR Acadia allow for direct paddling into Somes Sound. One reviewer mentioned, "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)," providing valuable details about water recreation options.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning at waterfront sites brings opportunities for seal and loon sightings. A visitor at Branch Lake Camping Area shared, "We had loons come in close to our site. Saw an Eagle too," highlighting wildlife encounters not mentioned in the existing description.
Blueberry picking: Free foraging available mid-July through August. "Mid July to Mid August free blueberries campside," reports Tammy H., describing a seasonal activity unique to the area not covered in the existing description.
What campers like
Quiet side advantages: Less crowded spots on Mount Desert Island's western section offer peace while maintaining park access. "This campground was great. Beautiful view of the water. Highly recommend the waterfront sites. Some of the sites are small but the view makes up for it," Jessica P. commented about camping at HTR Acadia.
Island Explorer convenience: Free shuttle service from Bar Harbor Campground eliminates parking challenges. "The Island Explorer bus for Acadia National Park stops at the campground, so you have easy access without driving, if desired," explains a reviewer, highlighting the transportation benefit without needing a vehicle.
Swimming options beyond the ocean: Heated pools available at multiple glamping locations when coastal waters prove too cold. One camper mentioned, "There is a really nice large swimming pool perched right along the water," demonstrating family-friendly alternatives to ocean swimming.
Off-grid stargazing: Dark sky viewing from Seawall Campground beaches offers astronomical observation opportunities. "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," Kyle R. shares, describing a specific evening activity.
What you should know
First-come, first-served considerations: Some campgrounds including Bar Harbor Campground don't accept reservations, requiring early arrival. "Show up find an empty spot. Pay for it and it's yours," explains Celeste M., detailing the non-reservation system that differs from most glamping sites.
Limited shower availability: Seawall Campground has no shower facilities on-site. "There are no showers at the grounds," notes Laura L., with others mentioning, "Showers were ~2 miles away, open 4-7 pm and $1.50 for 2 minutes of water," providing important facility information.
Site selection strategy: For waterfront glamping at Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls, specific site numbers matter. "Stayed at site 8 which had unobstructed views of ocean and close to path to beach," shares Grace B., offering practical site selection advice.
Seasonal crowds: Peak season brings significantly more visitors. "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," one camper advises regarding navigating busy periods.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming temperature considerations: Pool temperatures vary seasonally. "Pool is cold in June," notes audra H. about Bar Harbor Campground, providing timing information for families planning water activities.
Playground proximity: Select sites near recreational areas for easier child supervision. "There are great kids amenities and activities, there's a shop inside of the campground with a little of everything you might need," reports Julian M., highlighting family-friendly features.
Hidden activity incentives: Hadley's Point Campground offers unique engagement for children. "If you find a painted rock and bring it to the office you get a free ice pop. It's the simple things in life, right?" shares Melissa N., describing a free activity that keeps children engaged.
Budget-friendly family meals: Fresh seafood available directly from glamping sites. One camper at Oceanfront Camping recommended, "Highly highly recommend getting fresh lobster from the local lobster man that lives on the grounds, they even supply you with a pot to boil them!" providing a memorable dining option without restaurant prices.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Lamoine State Park Campground requires preparation for uneven terrain. "Many sites are not flat and require significant leveling if in an RV," warns one visitor, providing practical setup information not covered in the existing description.
Generator restrictions: Several campgrounds prohibit generator use or limit hours. "There are no hookups and limited generator hours, but there is a dump site and water available to fill," Laura L. notes about Seawall Campground, explaining important power limitations.
Off-season availability: Late September offers decreased competition for premium sites. "We were there on a weekend in mid September and it seemed busy but not full," shares Cheryl K., providing timing insights for those with flexible travel schedules.
Sewer connection placement: Unusual utility configurations require planning. "My picnic table and fire ring were 6 feet from next sites sewer connection," reports Mike about tight spacing at Patten Pond, highlighting proximity considerations when selecting glamping sites with full hookups.
