Glamping accommodations near Veazie, Maine offer seasonal accessibility with most sites operating from May through October. Located within a 45-minute drive of Acadia National Park, the region features diverse camping options across rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 40 to 400 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F with cooler evenings, making climate control features particularly valuable during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Kayaking at Branch Lake: Launch directly from waterfront sites at Branch Lake Camping area where the protected waters create ideal paddling conditions. The lake perimeter spans 26.5 miles with depths reaching 124 feet. "We had loons come in close to our site. Saw an Eagle too," notes one visitor who appreciated the wildlife viewing opportunities.
Mini-golf adventures: Located directly across from Bar Harbor Campground, Pirates Cove offers elaborate themed mini-golf courses ideal for family competition. The attraction is within walking distance of the campground, making it convenient for evening entertainment. A reviewer mentioned, "Nearby are restaurants and mini-golf," highlighting the convenient proximity.
Military veteran camping: First-time tent campers, including military veterans, can find comfortable introduction sites at Paul Bunyan Campground. "That camping could be so easy and fun! This is my first time actually camping in a tent for fun. (U.S. Army Veteran)... Thank you guys for making my first camping trip a fun one!" shared one guest who extended their stay from one night to a full week.
What campers like
Free public transportation: The Island Explorer shuttle stops at Hadley's Point Campground and connects to Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor, eliminating parking concerns. "The campground is on the Island Explorer bus loop, which is the bus that takes you all around Mount Desert Island, to Acadia, and Bar Harbor. We used the bus almost every day, and it was super helpful because you do not want to try and find parking in Acadia in the peak season," explained one visitor.
Fall foliage viewing: Late September visitors to Patten Pond Camping Resort experience spectacular autumn colors throughout the property. "We went at the end of September to visit Acadia National Park and the foliage was Beautiful! It wasn't even at its peak. The campsite is surrounded by beautiful trees," noted a seasonal camper.
Free blueberry picking: Mid-July through mid-August, campers at Bar Harbor Campground can harvest wild blueberries directly from fields within the property. "Blueberry fields free to pick July to August," mentioned one reviewer who regularly visits the property.
What you should know
First-come system: Bar Harbor Campground operates without reservations, requiring a different approach for securing sites. "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.)."
Payment restrictions: Some properties maintain strict payment policies. "Key note: sites are first come first serve and you must pay with cash or check. No credit cards are accepted," notes a Bar Harbor Campground visitor, highlighting the importance of bringing sufficient cash.
Vehicle maintenance assistance: When equipment failures occur, Cold River Campground and other area campgrounds often provide community support. As one camper recounted about a neighboring property: "Did have a wheel bearing go out on the trailer, and some folks at the park were helpful in finding parts and offering tools."
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with structured children's programming that doesn't require additional fees. "Lots of organized activities and great Bingo on Saturday night. We did the pancake breakfast for donation, crafts, and wagon ride during the day as well as enjoyed the well kept pool."
Rock hunts: Children enjoy searching for painted rocks at some area campgrounds. "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."
Shared sites: Some properties offer unique shared arrangements. "We were put on a shared site that had a pull thru in the middle of the two sites. Small site and not private," notes one family, highlighting the importance of understanding site layouts when booking.
Tips for RVers
Arrival timing: For first-come properties, early arrival significantly impacts site selection. "Come in early morning and wait for others to leave to grab the best sites. Or grab what ever is available and look the next morning for who leaves the better sites," advises one experienced RVer.
Tight corner navigation: Some campgrounds present turning challenges despite paved roads. "Roads in the park are paved but some corners can be a little tight for big-rigs, best to unhitch your tow car up front in case you have to back up."
Site leveling conditions: Some glamping sites near Veazie require additional preparation. "We got there just before dark. I was surprised that anywhere was still even open. Friendly service but I didn't have a chance to see much. I was in a rush to get my tent set up while I could still see."
