Best RV-Friendly Campgrounds Near Bar Harbor, Maine 

The majestic ocean views from a high mountain ridge, the grandeur of whales breaching in the Atlantic, the freshest crab, and the softest grass you will ever feel between your toes…that’s Maine in summer. And Bar Harbor is the quintessential Maine experience. 

But you already know that. That’s why you’re looking at the best RV campgrounds near Bar Harbor, Maine. 

From the heights of Acadia National Park to windjammer tours on the Atlantic, there are plenty of RV parks in Bar Harbor, ME, to choose from, so we’ve put together the best campgrounds for…

1. Waterfront camping
2. Family camping
3. And camping with pets. 

But first, there are some things you need to know to make your Maine camping trip successful.

Key Takeaways

• The tourist season in Bar Harbor, ME, opens after Memorial Day and ends after Labor Day. But many campgrounds stay open until October.
• Many amenities are seasonal, so confirm that the campground will be fully open during your stay to avoid disappointment.
• You’re far North. That means the sun rises early in the morning, so pack the blackout curtains if you’re sensitive to light.

Top Campgrounds for a Memorable Stay Near Bar Harbor

If you’re yearning for a blend of adventure and relaxation, Bar Harbor campgrounds deliver just that. Nestled in the heart of Downeast Maine, these campgrounds offer everything from spectacular ocean views to the serenity of lushly wooded sites. 

The Best RV Parks With Waterfront Access in Bar Harbor, ME 

Maine is a beautiful blend of ocean views and mountain overlooks–all within minutes of each other. With these tranquil waterside retreats, located near Bar Harbor, you can wake up to ocean views right from your campsite. 

Here, water sports lovers can enjoy coastal kayaking, fresh and saltwater fishing, crabbing, sailing, and more. Discover coastal caves on an ocean kayak tour. Then, bask in the natural beauty that surrounds you as you cast a line into the sparkling water of a desert island. It’s the perfect setting to unwind and reconnect with nature. 

If a waterside retreat is what you’re after, check out some of the best waterfront campgrounds near Bar Harbor. 

Things to Do On-the-Water

• Downeast Windjammer cruises
• Deep-sea fishing
• Crabbing (seasonal)
• Ocean kayaking
• Sea cave exploration

The Best Family-Friendly Bar Harbor Camping Resorts

Planning a family vacation can be challenging, but Bar Harbor camping resorts like Smuggler’s Den Campground and Wild Acadia Camping Resort make it easy to please everyone. 

These family-friendly resorts ensure the little campers are just as entertained as the adults, with a full water park that’s open in season and a climbing wall for older kids and adults. 

The KOA, in particular, always has events going on for the family to enjoy. Add the 5-star seafood dining a short distance away in Bar Harbor and Acadia’s majestic views, and you’ve got the makings for a vacation your family will never forget.

Best Nearby Attractions for Families

• Whale Watching
• Lighthouse tours
• Historical Granite Quarry
• Explore Acadia’s lower trails and beaches

The Best Pet-Friendly Campsites in Bar Harbor, ME

Can you imagine the epic morning walks with your dog in Acadia National Park? There are rocks to climb, a beach to explore, and trails to track down. What more could Fido ask for?

While many of the campsites already mentioned allow pets, The Narrows Too Camping Resort and KOA not only welcome dogs but also provide amenities like a dog park, ensuring a comfortable stay for you and your furry family members.

Blackwoods Campground and Seawall Campground are technically a part of Acadia National Park. This means you and your best friend can wake up and go on those epic walks. And rest assured, your pets will love the beach and the trails almost as much as you.

As a pet owner, you understand that your pet is your responsibility, so keep them on a leash where required and always clean up after them. 

Best Nearby Attractions for Pets

• Acadia National Park
• Historic Bar Harbor
• Ocean swimming 
• Ocean paddleboarding (if your pet is so inclined) 

FAQs About Planning Your Bar Harbor Camping Vacation

A well-planned camping trip can make the difference between a disappointing vacation and an unforgettable experience. Because of Maine’s short season and cooler climate, there are a few things you need to keep in mind when planning your trip. 

When is the Best Time to Camp in Bar Harbor, Maine?

The summer months offer cool weather and vibrant colors, as the flowers have a short season to bloom. However, even during the summer, nights still get cold, so pack a warm sweatshirt and warmer sleeping gear.

While most Bar Harbor campgrounds are open until the end of October, amenities like pools and recreation zones may not be available after Labor Day weekend. So, if you’re set on certain amenities, it’s best to plan your trip between Memorial Day and Labor Day. 

What to Pack?

When it comes to packing for your camping trip, there are a few essentials you shouldn’t forget. Even though the weather is mild, you still need sunscreen and a lightweight rain jacket or poncho in the event of sudden weather changes.

As popular as Acadia is, it’s a big park with remote trails. You can easily spend all day on the mountain trails. So, if you’re going to explore places like Acadia, then pack a day bag with extra food, water, and a first aid kit. It’s always best to be prepared.

What Nearby Attractions and Day Trips Are Available?

While the campgrounds themselves offer plenty of activities, taking a day trip to the nearby towns can add a whole new dimension to your camping vacation. Lubec, for instance, is the easternmost point of the United States, where you can view the iconic West Quoddy Head Lighthouse and scenic hiking paths like Boot Head Preserve and Hamilton Cove.

Camden is a good place for leisurely shopping, dining, and a serene Windjammer cruise in Penobscot Bay. You can also head to Bangor to see the towering Paul Bunyan statue and Stephen King’s former home. 

Summary

With another successful camping experience said and done, it’s time to store your RV – your best friend on the road. But the last time you took it out you noticed the roof was getting chalky and showing signs of sun damage. 

So instead of parking it in your backyard like you’ve been doing, you’re looking for a place to store it under cover, protected from the sun and rain. 

But where can you find covered or enclosed RV storage in your area?

With Neighbor, you can find RV storage spaces close to home.

Neighbor is a peer-to-peer RV storage marketplace that offers RV storage up to 50% cheaper than traditional storage options. Some are right in your own neighborhood.  

Other Frequently Asked Questions

Does Acadia National Park Allow RV Camping?

Yes, Acadia National Park allows RV camping, offering a great opportunity to get close to nature and relax by the beach.

Which Campground Is Best at Acadia?

Blackwoods Campground is considered the best due to its prime location near Bar Harbor, Park Loop Road, and popular hiking trails. It’s Acadia’s most popular campground, offering convenience and access to the park’s main attractions. 

Is It Hard to Get a Campsite in Acadia National Park?

Yes, it can be difficult to get a campsite in Acadia National Park, as all campgrounds require advanced reservations, which can be made two months in advance.