Notable Campgrounds
- Best for hikers: From Blackwoods Campground, campers can hike to the coast and Cadillac Mountain.
- Best for bicycling: Schoodic Woods Campground borders a one-way, scenic loop road.
- Best for families: South of Southwest Harbor, Seawall Campground offers picnic tables and is great for hiking, biking, kayaking, and swimming.
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- Reservations are required for all four campgrounds in the park. There are no first-come, first-served walk-in campsites.
- Make reservations online through the National Park Service up to three months in advance for Blackwoods, Seawall, and Schoodic Woods campgrounds.
- Blackwoods is open from early May, while Seawall and Schoodic Woods open in late May.
- Reservations for the five tent sites at Duck Harbor Campground on Isle au Haut (reached by mailboat) are available beginning April 1 every year. Duck Harbor campsites are open from mid-May.
When to Go
High season is July and August, when the weather is warmest, up to 90°F, and kids are on summer vacation. Spring and falls are also pleasant, but temperatures are about 10 to 20 degrees cooler. Leaves typically change color in mid-October. All campgrounds close in mid-October, and the Park Loop Road closes by December 1. Two short sections that can be reached from outside the park—Jordan Pond Road and Ocean Drive—remain open. In winter, visitors can cross-country ski and snowshoe the carriage roads but hiking trails can be icy and treacherous.
Know Before You Go
- Most of the park is located on Mount Desert Island, also home to the town of Bar Harbor.
- The Schoodic Peninsula is part of the mainland. It is an hour’s drive between the peninsula and Mount Desert Island (and there are no shuttles).
- Island Explorer operates 10 shuttle routes between the park and local communities from late June through mid-October.
- A commercial ferry travels between Bar Harbor and the village of Winter Harbor on the Schoodic Peninsula. In summer, the Island Explorer shuttle picks up visitors in Winter Harbor and carries them to sites along the Park Loop Road on the peninsula.
- The Bicycle Express shuttle runs from Bar Harbor to the park carriage roads from late June through late August.
Acadia National Park Glamping
Glamping options abound on the outskirts of this beloved Maine park. Encompassing headlands and islands along the coast of Maine, Acadia National Park has long been a popular place to get away from it all, offering miles of opportunities for adventure in the form of hiking trails, beaches, and waterways. While camping options in the park are limited to RV and tent sites, there are five lean-to shelters at Duck Harbor Campground on Isle au Haut. If you want something a bit more glamorous, a fair few options can be found within a quick and easy drive of the park's main area. Acadia glamping options include rustic cabins in the woods, canvas tents (some with heating), A-frame cabins, and homely renovated campervans along with plenty of yurt rentals. Glampsites typically have beds, toilet access, camp kitchens, and other creature comforts, and while some include bedding, others require campers bring their own sleeping bag and pillows.
Yurt Rentals Near Acadia National Park
Cozy up in a yurt just outside of this coastal Maine favorite. Coastal Maine’s Acadia National Park is known for its magnificently rugged headlands, plus its miles and miles of scenic hiking trails and motor roads. Acadia is also a fantastic place to go camping in the summer—if you're lucky enough to secure a campsite. While tent campers and RVers have options throughout the park, those wanting to stay in a yurt rental will need to head to one of the private options outside of the park's boundaries. Fortunately, there are lots of Hipcamp options to choose from not too far from the park, meaning you can spend the night in the warmth and comfort of a yurt and then head out the next morning for a day of fun in the park. Yurts near the park tend to be plush, with beds or futons for a comfy night's stay, and some are big enough to accommodate up to eight people.
Acadia National Park
Full immersion is easy in Acadia, where rugged, coastal beauty and outdoor recreation coexist.
Driving the 27-mile Park Loop Road as it curves along the Maine coast and swoops past Cadillac Mountain is a “choose your own adventure” situation. Shall you scramble up a lofty “ladder trail” or hike to an island across a sand bar with ocean views? Or simply go tide-pooling in a rocky cove? The upper-crusty influence of the park’s founders is most evident on the 45 miles of finely graveled carriage roads, now hosting bicycles instead of horse-drawn buggies. For an ever-classy end to a day, visit the Jordan Pond teahouse at the base of Mt. Penobscot for tea and a popover.
Driving the 27-mile Park Loop Road as it curves along the Maine coast and swoops past Cadillac Mountain is a “choose your own adventure” situation. Shall you scramble up a lofty “ladder trail” or hike to an island across a sand bar with ocean views? Or simply go tide-pooling in a rocky cove? The upper-crusty influence of the park’s founders is most evident on the 45 miles of finely graveled carriage roads, now hosting bicycles instead of horse-drawn buggies. For an ever-classy end to a day, visit the Jordan Pond teahouse at the base of Mt. Penobscot for tea and a popover.
Activities in the park
4 campgrounds in Acadia National Park
This newcomer was built in 2015 to attract overnight visitors to the beautiful Schoodic Peninsula. It’s far from the hustle and bustle of Mount Desert Island, and offers a more intimate and secluded camping experience. Sites are wooded and private, with ample room for tents or RVs, but several roads on the peninsula are not suitable for RV travel, Read more...
Take a ride on the quiet side—Seawell Campground is tucked away in the far southern end of the park, a full 18-miles from the most popular sites and attractions of the park loop road. What this area lacks in popularity, it makes up for in rugged beauty. You’ll find quiet hiking trails, the beautiful Bass Harbor Lighthouse, and the perfect lake for Read more...
Acadia is your spot for rugged adventure and ocean-side relaxation. It is one of the most visited National Parks in the United States, where you can take care of all your vacationing needs in one spot. Meander along the towering cliffs and sandy beaches, hike the miles of trail, bike the tree-lined carriage roads, or kayak the peaceful ponds and l Read more...
Leave your car and other modern technologies behind and head out to Isle au Haut where you will find the very best of primitive camping at Duck Harbor Campground. Ferry service from the mainland will drop you and your gear in Duck Harbor, and from there, you’re on your own. Explore the wild, rocky shores, hike the 18-miles of trails, or just kick Read more...
Why can't I see these campgrounds when I search with dates?
Notable Campgrounds
Notable Campgrounds
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
When to Go
High season is July and August, when the weather is warmest, up to 90°F, and kids are on summer vacation. Spring and falls are also pleasant, but temperatures are about 10 to 20 degrees cooler. Leaves typically change color in mid-October. All campgrounds close in mid-October, and the Park Loop Road closes by December 1. Two short sections that can be reached from outside the park—Jordan Pond Road and Ocean Drive—remain open. In winter, visitors can cross-country ski and snowshoe the carriage roads but hiking trails can be icy and treacherous.
Know Before You Go
Acadia National Park Glamping
Glamping options abound on the outskirts of this beloved Maine park. Encompassing headlands and islands along the coast of Maine, Acadia National Park has long been a popular place to get away from it all, offering miles of opportunities for adventure in the form of hiking trails, beaches, and waterways. While camping options in the park are limited to RV and tent sites, there are five lean-to shelters at Duck Harbor Campground on Isle au Haut. If you want something a bit more glamorous, a fair few options can be found within a quick and easy drive of the park's main area. Acadia glamping options include rustic cabins in the woods, canvas tents (some with heating), A-frame cabins, and homely renovated campervans along with plenty of yurt rentals. Glampsites typically have beds, toilet access, camp kitchens, and other creature comforts, and while some include bedding, others require campers bring their own sleeping bag and pillows.
Yurt Rentals Near Acadia National Park
Cozy up in a yurt just outside of this coastal Maine favorite. Coastal Maine’s Acadia National Park is known for its magnificently rugged headlands, plus its miles and miles of scenic hiking trails and motor roads. Acadia is also a fantastic place to go camping in the summer—if you're lucky enough to secure a campsite. While tent campers and RVers have options throughout the park, those wanting to stay in a yurt rental will need to head to one of the private options outside of the park's boundaries. Fortunately, there are lots of Hipcamp options to choose from not too far from the park, meaning you can spend the night in the warmth and comfort of a yurt and then head out the next morning for a day of fun in the park. Yurts near the park tend to be plush, with beds or futons for a comfy night's stay, and some are big enough to accommodate up to eight people.
Frequently asked questions
Can you camp anywhere in Acadia National Park?
No, you cannot camp anywhere in Acadia National Park. Camping in Acadia is only allowed in designated campgrounds. There are two campgrounds within the park: Blackwoods Campground and Seawall Campground. Additionally, you can find private campgrounds and other accommodations near the park. You can learn more about camping options in Acadia on the National Park Service website.
Which campground is best in Acadia National Park?
There are several excellent campgrounds in Acadia National Park, and the "best" one depends on your preferences and needs. Some popular options include:
1. Blackwoods Campground: This campground is located on the east side of Mount Desert Island and offers easy access to popular hiking trails and attractions.
2. Seawall Campground: Seawall is on the quieter western side of Mount Desert Island and is ideal for those seeking a more peaceful camping experience.
3. Schoodic Woods Campground: This campground is located on the Schoodic Peninsula, which is less crowded than Mount Desert Island but still offers scenery and access to park hot spots.
For a more unique experience, you can also explore private campgrounds and accommodations in the Acadia area through Hipcamp.
How much does it cost to camp in Acadia National Park?
Campsites at Acadia National Park vary in price depending on the campground and the type of site. There are three campgrounds within the park: Blackwoods, Seawall, and Schoodic Woods. Prices generally range from $22 to $60 per night. Here's a breakdown of the costs:
Please note that these prices are subject to change, and it's always a good idea to check the National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information on camping fees and reservations.
How do I reserve a campsite at Acadia National Park?
To reserve a campsite at Acadia National Park, visit the Recreation.gov website, where you can book a campsite at Blackwoods, Seawall, or Schoodic Woods campgrounds. These are the three main campgrounds within the park that accept reservations. Keep in mind that sites fill up quickly, especially during the peak season (June to September), so it's a good idea to book well in advance.
How do I get a campsite reservation at Acadia National Park?
Securing an Acadia National Park campsite reservation is usually a challenge due to the park's popularity. Camping trips typically need to be planned months in advance and even then, available campsites can book up within minutes. The good news is that you have other options for last-minute Acadia National Park campsite reservations. Try getting a reservation by setting up a free Hipcamp alert for any Acadia campground. We'll monitor campground availability, and you'll get instantly notified of any openings that come up for your dates so you can jump on it to reserve the newly open site. Set up an alert.
When should I reserve camping in Acadia National Park?
Most Acadia National Park campsite reservations open up months in advance. However, it's notoriously difficult to secure an Acadia National Park campsite reservation even if you plan ahead, as campsites are often booked up within minutes. To increase your chances of snagging a campsite, set up a free Hipcamp alert for any Acadia campground. We'll monitor campground availability, and you'll get instantly notified of any openings that come up for your dates so you can jump on it to reserve the newly open site. Set up an alert.
Public campgrounds (book externally) —