Your Bar Harbor Basecamp: Exploring Bar Harbor Campground

Bar Harbor Campground Introduce

For anyone living in or exploring the beautiful state of Maine, the call of the wild often leads to the unparalleled landscapes of Acadia National Park and the charming coastal town of Bar Harbor. Finding the perfect place to set up camp, whether for a weekend escape or a longer family adventure, is crucial to fully immersing oneself in the region’s natural splendor. Bar Harbor Campground, situated just moments from both the vibrant downtown and the majestic national park, stands as a long-standing and often-praised choice for Mainers seeking an authentic and convenient outdoor experience.

The reputation of Bar Harbor Campground precedes it, having served as a beloved basecamp for generations of campers. While recent changes in ownership and policies have stirred some discussion among long-time patrons, the core appeal of this location remains strong. It offers a unique blend of accessibility to iconic attractions with a surprisingly private and spacious camping environment. Imagine spending your days hiking Acadia’s famous trails, exploring Bar Harbor's quaint shops, and then returning to a peaceful site with the convenience of clean facilities and a welcoming atmosphere.

Recent visitors have shared overwhelmingly positive experiences, particularly highlighting the cleanliness of the bathrooms and the warmth of the showers – essential comforts after a day of outdoor exploration. Many have found the sites to be generously sized and well-maintained, offering a sense of privacy often hard to come by in popular camping destinations. The proximity to Acadia National Park and downtown Bar Harbor is consistently lauded as a major advantage, making it a truly practical choice for those who want to minimize travel time and maximize their enjoyment of the area. Even with shifts in operations, the commitment to providing a quality camping experience appears to be a continuing priority, ensuring that Bar Harbor Campground remains a top contender for your next Maine adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Bar Harbor Campground holds a coveted address at 409 ME-3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA. This strategic location places it at the doorstep of two of Maine's most iconic destinations: Acadia National Park and the lively downtown of Bar Harbor. Being just minutes away, campers can seamlessly transition from the peaceful, natural setting of the campground to the rugged beauty of Acadia's granite peaks and rocky shores, or the charming bustle of Bar Harbor’s shops, restaurants, and whale-watching tours.

The accessibility of this campground is a significant draw, particularly for those looking to explore without the hassle of constantly moving their vehicles. It’s noted as being one of the closest campgrounds to both the town and the park, which is a major advantage given the often-limited parking within Acadia National Park itself, especially during peak season. A key highlight for accessibility is the presence of an Island Explorer bus stop right at the campground entrance. This free shuttle service is an invaluable resource for campers, providing convenient transportation throughout Mount Desert Island, including into Acadia National Park, downtown Bar Harbor, and to various trailheads and attractions. This allows visitors to leave their cars at their campsites and enjoy a stress-free exploration of the area, reducing congestion and promoting a more environmentally friendly approach to tourism.

Additionally, the campground's location on Route 3, a main thoroughfare, ensures easy navigation to and from the island. Despite its proximity to these popular areas, many sites within the campground offer a surprising degree of privacy, often nestled amidst mature trees, creating a quiet retreat after a day of activity. This balance of convenience and natural serenity makes Bar Harbor Campground an ideal base for experiencing the best of Mount Desert Island.

Services Offered

RV Sites: A variety of RV sites are available, including full hookup (water, electric, sewer) and water/electric only sites, with both 30-amp and 50-amp service options. Many sites are gravel, some are pull-through, and certain premium sites offer stunning ocean views.
Tent Sites: Dedicated tent-only areas are provided, some offering secluded, wooded settings, while others may boast direct ocean frontage or views.
Heated Swimming Pool: A refreshing and family-friendly heated pool is available for guest use, offering a great way to relax, especially after a day of hiking, with some views of the ocean.
Clean Restrooms and Hot Showers: Consistently praised for their cleanliness and maintenance, the shower facilities provide hot water, a welcome amenity for campers.
Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry room equipped with washers and dryers for guest convenience.
Camp Store: A well-stocked store offering essential camping supplies, firewood, ice, snacks, and perhaps local souvenirs.
Free Wi-Fi: Wireless internet access is available, allowing guests to stay connected during their stay.
Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires.
Playground: A dedicated playground area for children, ensuring family-friendly fun.
Sports Courts: Facilities for various sports, such as basketball or shuffleboard, providing recreational opportunities.
Pet Friendly: Bar Harbor Campground welcomes pets, allowing the whole family to enjoy the camping experience together.
Arcade: An arcade offering modern and retro games, providing entertainment, especially on rainy days.
Seasonal Stays: Options for extended stays, including seasonal rates for those looking to experience the full beauty of a Maine summer or fall.
Online Reservation System: Reservations are required and can be made via their website, offering a streamlined booking process.

Features / Highlights

Close Proximity to Acadia National Park: Arguably one of its biggest selling points, the campground is just minutes from the park entrance, making it incredibly convenient for daily excursions.
Direct Access to Island Explorer Shuttle: The free Island Explorer bus stops right at the campground, eliminating the need to drive and park at crowded park attractions or in downtown Bar Harbor.
Ocean Views: Many sites, particularly in the tent-only oceanfront lot and some premium RV sites, offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Frenchman Bay.
Spacious and Private Sites: Even with the campground’s popularity, many sites are noted for being large, private, and nestled in wooded areas, providing a sense of seclusion.
Clean and Updated Facilities: Guests frequently commend the spotlessly clean bathrooms and the availability of hot showers.
Family-Friendly Amenities: With a heated pool, playground, sports courts, and an arcade, the campground caters well to families with children.
Pet-Friendly Environment: Welcoming to furry family members, making it easy to bring pets along for the adventure.
Unforgettable Sunsets: The ocean-facing location provides spectacular opportunities to witness vibrant sunsets over the water.
Wooded Campsites: Many sites are naturally shaded by trees, offering a cooler and more private camping experience.
On-Site Laundry Facility: A convenience that allows campers to freshen up their clothes during their stay.
Seasonal Stays Available: For those looking for an extended stay, options for seasonal bookings are provided.

Promotions or Special Offers

Bar Harbor Campground, now part of the Modern America Campgrounds network, offers a loyalty rewards program where every dollar spent earns points redeemable for discounts on future reservations. This program, ranging from Silver to Diamond status, allows frequent campers to unlock growing benefits. Additionally, they offer a "Freedom Trail Pass," an exclusive pass providing unlimited camping across their network of parks in New England for one simple price, valid for an entire year. For those interested in longer stays, Bar Harbor Campground values extended stay guests and encourages inquiries about seasonal opportunities and discounts. While the specific "7th night free" promotion mentioned in a past review may no longer be explicitly advertised, it's always advisable for potential guests to check their official website or contact them directly to inquire about current promotions, seasonal rates, or any specific discounts that might be available. Military and Good Sam discounts are often offered at similar campgrounds, so it's worth asking if these apply.

Contact Information

Ready to plan your next Bar Harbor adventure? Here’s how you can connect with Bar Harbor Campground:

Address: 409 ME-3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
Phone: (207) 288-5185
Mobile Phone: +1 207-288-5185
Email: office@barharborcampground.com

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Mainers, Bar Harbor Campground represents an ideal opportunity to experience one of the state's crown jewels without the extensive travel often associated with vacations. It's a convenient and well-equipped gateway to Acadia National Park and downtown Bar Harbor, offering a robust camping experience right in our backyard. The campground's location on Mount Desert Island means less time driving and more time enjoying the area's natural wonders, whether it's hiking Cadillac Mountain, exploring the carriage roads, or simply strolling through the charming streets of Bar Harbor.

The amenities provided, from the heated pool to clean bathhouses and on-site laundry, cater to the practical needs of a family or individual getaway, ensuring comfort after a day of exploring. The availability of diverse site types—from spacious RV spots to private tent areas—allows Mainers to choose the camping style that best suits their preferences, making it a flexible option for repeat visits. Crucially, the free Island Explorer bus service, stopping directly at the campground, is a game-changer. For locals looking to truly unwind and avoid the hassle of summer traffic and parking, this service allows for stress-free exploration of the entire island, from scenic overlooks to local eateries, all without moving your vehicle.

While some long-standing traditions may have shifted, the underlying appeal of Bar Harbor Campground as a clean, friendly, and conveniently located base remains strong. For Mainers, it’s not just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it’s a chance to reconnect with the stunning beauty of their own state, to create new memories with family and friends, and to fully immerse themselves in the unique charm of coastal Maine and Acadia National Park. It's a reminder of why we love living in this incredible place, offering an accessible and authentic escape into the heart of Maine's celebrated wilderness.

Bar Harbor Campground Photos

Bar Harbor Campground Location

Bar Harbor Campground

Maine Hancock County Bar Harbor Maine 3

409 ME-3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA

Bar Harbor Campground Reviews

New owners went reservation only you and can't reserve same day on the website. They won't even let you in to pick your own site if you show up. Was told you have to choose from the office, sight unseen and when this customer of 30 straight years asked why the camp sites cost twice as much now I was told by the indigent manager/owner " the price of eggs used to be $2.00 too!" Wow. Also no more 7th night free. Rates for no utilities tent sites are now $70 if you pay the "lock fee" (scam) or $85 for the top of the hill tent site.Put my wallet back in my pocket and drove off. What a shame after so many good memories and lots of $ spent over the years to be spoken to so rudely and the prices are a complete rip-off now.
May 18, 2025 · jeff goyette
We stayed here last year for a night in the tent only ocean front lot. We came back this year for a week in the S loop. I was a little nervous reading the reviews on the new ownership but we had a wonderful time. The spaces were large and private. Bathrooms were clean and well stocked. I saw someone most mornings cleaning them. Showers were hot! All of the staff we met were incredibly friendly. There is a laundry facility on site. Excellent proximity to Acadia and Bar Harbor. We have camped in the National Park before but the sites here are much nicer, larger and quieter. We can’t wait to return!
Sep 24, 2024 · Melissa Seaton
VERY DISAPPOINTED WITH NEW MANAGEMENT! Our family have been very happy campers under the previous owners for many memorable years. What made this campground exceptional was their flexible model of first come first serve and owners who genuinely cared about their loyal campers, many native to Maine. Over the years we met some wonderful residents who appreciated how affordable it was to take their family on vacation. We recently had to cancel our reservation due to an unexpected family issue and were not able to get a refund. The previous owners understood their clientele and were very fair as they weighed each incident as needed. The new owners seem to use their policy as a one size fits all rather than trying to work with and accommodate existing customers during this transition. This campground grew and excelled over the years from word of mouth and sadly I don't see this to be the case now. Prices have doubled and the overall satisfaction with management is questionable for many regulars. It's a shame what has unfolded and for many families, this beautiful location will no longer be an option.
Aug 28, 2024 · Alan R
The Bar Harbor Campground is very well kept and clean. It has several bathrooms with showers spread throughout the grounds, as well as trash dumpsters and water lines.The grounds are beautiful with a mix of open sites along the ocean side and protected/wooded sites deeper in. There’s also a small pond with campsites around it.The sites are very small. Between the picnic table and fire pit, our tent was basically touching the car. There was no room!The campground is exactly in the right spot. It’s close to Bar Harbor but far enough away to be secluded from the crowds.
Oct 15, 2024 · Ryan Johnson
My husband and I have been going here for over 30 yrs and was always pleased until last year when it was taken over by American Campgrounds. No more first come first service, no choice of campsite, no benefit for staying more than a week. No improvements made either. Very sad
Jan 03, 2025 · Karen Holley