Acadia National Park nestled on the rugged coast of Maine, offers a breathtaking tapestry of granite peaks, emerald forests, and sparkling coastline. It’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts, and what better way to immerse yourself in its beauty than by spending a night under the stars at one of its exceptional campgrounds? This comprehensive guide of Acadia National Park will delve into the best Acadia National Park camping and top-rated options nearby, ensuring you find the perfect base for your unforgettable Acadia adventure.
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Should You Camp Inside or Outside Acadia National Park?
Hey fellow adventurers! As a guy who’s always itching to explore new places, Acadia National Park has been a bucket list destination for years. And let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint. The rugged coastline, towering mountains, and lush forests are simply breathtaking. But one question that always pops up when planning a trip to Acadia is: should you camp inside or outside the park?
Well, after spending several nights under the stars both inside and outside Acadia, I’m here to give you the lowdown.
Camping inside the park offers unparalleled convenience and access. You’re literally steps away from some of the most iconic trails, beaches, and viewpoints. Imagine waking up to the sound of crashing waves or the call of a loon, then heading straight out for a sunrise hike. It’s pure magic.
However, camping inside Acadia can be extremely competitive. Reservations fill up months in advance, especially during peak season. You’ll need to be organized and plan ahead if you want to snag a spot. Plus, the campgrounds themselves can get crowded, especially during the summer or the fall months.
Camping outside the park offers a more relaxed and secluded experience. You’ll find a wider variety of campgrounds, from rustic tent sites to luxurious RV parks. Prices are generally lower, and you’re less likely to encounter crowds.
The downside is that you’ll need to factor in travel time to and from the park. This can eat into your precious vacation time, especially if you’re planning on doing a lot of exploring.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your priorities and the places to visit in Acadia on your list. If you value convenience and proximity to the park’s highlights, then camping inside is the way to go. But if you prefer a more peaceful and affordable experience, then camping outside might be a better fit.
Best campgrounds in Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park Camping offers a variety of campgrounds within its boundaries, each with its own unique charm.
Blackwoods Campground
- Physical Address: 155 Blackwoods Drive, Otter Creek, ME 04660
- Fees:
- Group Tent Only Area – Non-electric: $60.00
- RV Non-electric: $30.00
- Tent Only Non-electric: $30.00
- Operating Hours & Seasons: Open 24 hours
- Contact Information & Directions: 207-288-3274
- Reservations: All Blackwood’s campsites are reserved up to two months in advance. All campsites are by reservation only
- Total Sites: 281
Blackwoods Campground is situated on the eastern side of Mount Desert Island, approximately 5 miles (8 km) south of Bar Harbor along Route 3. All camping sites at Blackwoods are surrounded by trees and are just a short 10-minute walk from the ocean. The campground offers sites suitable for both small and large tents, as well as spots for RV travelers. Amenities include flush toilets, running water, a dump station, picnic tables, and fire rings. The roads within the campground are paved for easy access.
Seawall Campground
- Physical Address: 664 Seawall Rd, Southwest Harbor, ME 04679
- Fees:
- Group Tent Only Area – Non-electric: $60.00
- RV Non-electric: $30.00
- Tent Only Non-electric: $30.00
- Standard Non-electric: $30.00
- Walk-in: $22.00
- Operating Hours & Seasons: Open 24 hours
- Contact Information & Directions: 207-288-3338
- Reservations: All Blackwood’s campsites are reserved up to two months in advance. All campsites are by reservation only
- Total Sites: 202
Seawall Campground is situated on the western side of Mount Desert Island, around 4 miles (6 km) south of Southwest Harbor. It is roughly 18 miles away from Bar Harbor. All camping sites at Seawall are conveniently close to the coastline, making it easy for campers ‘s things to do in Acadia National Park.
Schoodic Woods Campground
- Physical Address: 54 Farview Dr, Winter Harbor, ME 04693
- Fees:
- Hike-in tent sites (primitive): $22
- Drive up tent/small RV (20 amp): $30
- RV with electric only sites (20/30/50 amp): $36
- RV with electric and water (20/30/50 amp): $40
- Group tent sites: $60
- Operating Hours & Seasons: Open 24 hours
- Contact Information & Directions: 207-288-1300
- Reservations: All Blackwood’s campsites are reserved up to two months in advance. All campsites are by reservation only
- Total Sites: 89
There are a lot of places to stay near Acadia National Park and Schoodic Woods Campground is the most recent camping site in the park. It is situated 15 miles (25 km) southeast of Winter Harbor on the Schoodic Peninsula. The campground is about a 60-70 minute drive from Bar Harbor and other parts of Mount Desert Island.
Duck Harbor Campground
- Physical Address: Acadia National Park, Attn: Duck Harbor Campground, PO Box 177, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
- Fees:
- Tent/Shelter Non-Electric: $20.00
- Contact Information & Directions: 207-335-5551
- Reservations: Reservations are required to camp at Duck Harbor Campground. Reservations are available 7 months in advance of the reservation date.
- Total Sites: 5
Duck Harbor Campground is situated on Isle au Haut, a remote island near Stonington, Maine. Accessible only by mailboat, this rugged island does not allow cars. Reservations are required for camping, which is only allowed in specific sites. Each campsite has a limit of six people.
Top-rated campgrounds near Acadia National Park: RV, Cabin, Tent
While Acadia National Park offers an impressive array of campgrounds within its boundaries, there are also a number of exceptional options just outside the park’s borders. These top-rated campgrounds provide easy access to Acadia’s attractions while offering their own unique charms and amenities.
True Serendipity Homestead
- Physical Address: Hancock, Hancock, Maine, United States
- Total Sites: 7
- Fees: From $55/ night/ 5 guests
- Reservations: Reservations are required to camp at True Serendipity Homestead
This is a functional homestead powered by solar energy, completely off the grid. It includes chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys. There is a 2-acre pond fed by an Artesian spring for fishing (catch and release only).
Semi-secluded tent sites are located near an outhouse equipped with a flush toilet and a sink with clean running water. Each tent site has a fire pit and a picnic table. Guests can hike on trails or venture into the woods to discover the beauty of this 25-acre homestead.
Four Acre Woods Campground
- Physical Address: Deer Isle, Hancock, Maine, United States
- Total Sites: 3 lodging sites · 8 RV/tent sites · 1 tent site
- Fees:
- Tent sites: From $55/ night/ 5 guests
- RV/tent sites: From $48 – $55/ night/ 5 guests
- Lodging: From $98 – $125/ night
- Reservations: Reservations are required to camp at Four Acre Woods Campground
More than 60 years ago, Four Acre Woods was established on Sunshine Island, Maine. Originally known as Sunshine Campground, it welcomed visitors from various parts of the globe, embodying the rich history and natural beauty of the land that had been cherished by countless generations before.
Cabin Creek Farm
- Physical Address: Cranberry Isles, Hancock, Maine, United States
- Total Sites: 6 tent sites
- Fees:
- Tent sites: From $55 – $74/ night/ 4 guests
- Reservations: Reservations are required to camp at Cabin Creek Farm
Many visitors aspire to enjoy the beauty and peacefulness of an offshore Maine Island, but only a few get to experience it. The camp is situated on a charming, unspoiled island off the coast of Maine, just a simple 1-mile walk from the ferry landing upon arrival.
Passengers can bring bicycles to the ferries, which are a fantastic way to move around and discover more of the island. You can even kayak directly to the camp during high tide.
The Point
- Physical Address: Gouldsboro, Hancock, Maine, United States
- Total Sites: 2 lodging sites · 2 RV/tent sites
- Fees:
- RV/tent sites: From $99/ night/ 2 – 4 guests
- Lodging: From $115 – $135/ night/ 2 guests
- Reservations: Reservations are required to camp at The Point
The Point is situated in Gouldsboro, Downeast Maine on the Schoodic Peninsula, close to the Schoodic area of Acadia National Park. It is a retreat where individuals can find peace and tranquility, reconnect with nature, and rediscover the significance of our relationship with the planet that supports us.
The Maine Land
- Physical Address: Sullivan, Hancock, Maine, United States
- Total Sites: Tent site · 4 guests max
- Fees: From $45/ night/ 4 guests
- Reservations: Reservations are required to camp at The Maine Land
The rustic camping area includes a tent spot, fire pit, picnic table, and outhouse. It is located in a peaceful and secluded area surrounded by birch trees, spruce trees, a young maple grove, and some charming young pine trees.
There is an open area to the south that offers views of Frenchmans and Flanders Bay. To the north, east, and west, there are approximately 70 acres of forest with some old logging trails that you can explore at your leisure if you’re up for a little adventure.
My Tips For Acadia National Park Camping
Alright, fellow campers, let me share some hard-earned wisdom from my time under the Acadia stars.
First things first, arrive early. Trust me, you don’t want to be scrambling for a spot in the fading light. Getting there early gives you the pick of the campsites and time to set up camp before the sun dips below the horizon.
Speaking of setting up, plan your meals. Think about easy-to-cook meals and snacks that won’t require a gourmet kitchen. Trust me, after a long day of exploring, the last thing you want to do is wrestle with a complicated recipe.
And speaking of exploring, stay hydrated. Those Acadia trails can be surprisingly demanding, so keep a water bottle handy and refill it often. Staying hydrated will keep your energy levels up and prevent those dreaded afternoon slumps.
Now, while those trails are amazing, don’t forget to venture beyond them. Acadia’s coastline is breathtaking, and there are hidden gems tucked away in less-traveled areas. You might stumble upon a secluded beach or a breathtaking vista that’s off the beaten path.
Remember, we’re guests in this incredible natural wonderland. Respect nature by following Leave No Trace principles. Pack out everything you pack in, and give Acadia wildlife their space.
And finally, be prepared for anything. Acadia’s weather can change faster than a lobster’s mood. Pack layers of clothing and be ready for sudden shifts in temperature or a surprise downpour.
But hey, even if the weather takes a turn, enjoy the night sky. Acadia’s dark skies are a sight to behold. Grab a blanket, find a quiet spot, and lose yourself in the beauty of the cosmos.
Acadia National Park Camping FAQ
When is the best time to camp in Acadia National Park?
The best time to visit and camp in Acadia is during the shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October). The weather is milder, the crowds are smaller, and the foliage is stunning in the fall.
Do I need to make reservations for camping in Acadia National Park?
Yes, reservations are highly recommended for all campgrounds in Acadia National Park. You can make reservations online through Recreation.gov.
What amenities are available at the campgrounds in Acadia National Park?
Amenities vary depending on the campground, but most offer flush toilets, showers, potable water, and picnic tables. Some campgrounds also have playgrounds, laundry facilities, and dump stations.
What should I bring when camping in Acadia National Park?
Be sure to pack for all types of weather, as conditions can change quickly. Bring layers of clothing, rain gear, a hat, and sunscreen. Also, pack plenty of food and water, as there are limited options for dining inside the park.
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