Bass Harbor Campground

For Maine residents seeking a perfect blend of natural beauty, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to one of the state’s most cherished treasures, Bass Harbor Campground is an excellent choice. Located at 342 Harbor Dr in Bass Harbor, this charming and well-equipped campground offers a quintessential Mount Desert Island experience, particularly for those who appreciate the peaceful ambiance of Acadia National Park's "quiet side." It's a place where you can truly unwind after a day of exploration, offering comfortable facilities and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it ideal for everything from a weekend getaway to a week-long family vacation.

Many Mainers know that while the Bar Harbor side of Acadia is vibrant, the "quiet side" offers a different, equally rewarding experience, and Bass Harbor Campground is perfectly positioned to provide it. As one delighted guest shared, it's "a great campground right near a lighthouse and Acadia National Park." Campers consistently praise its comprehensive offerings, including "hot showers, flush toilets, camp store, and even a dishwashing station." The amenities cater especially well to families, with a "heated pool, a rec room, and a little playground, perfect for the kiddos." It's praised for being a "quaint campground" that's "still on the quiet side but less remote and more for kids." The ability to "walk to the lighthouse and having an easy drive to Acadia" are standout features, making Bass Harbor Campground a strong contender for your next Maine adventure. The "staff were also so nice and pleasant," ensuring a positive and welcoming stay.

Bass Harbor Campground is ideally situated at 342 Harbor Dr, Bass Harbor, ME 04653, USA, placing it on the tranquil "quiet side" of Mount Desert Island, away from the busier sections of Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor. This location offers a unique blend of serene coastal beauty and convenient access to key attractions.

For Maine residents, reaching Bass Harbor is a straightforward drive along Route 102 to the southwest part of Mount Desert Island. Once there, the campground's accessibility is a major advantage. It’s located just a short, scenic walk (approximately 10 minutes) from the iconic Bass Harbor Head Light Station, one of Maine's most picturesque and photographed lighthouses. This allows campers to easily experience stunning sunrises and sunsets over the rugged coastline without needing to drive and find parking. Furthermore, the campground offers direct access to the free Island Explorer shuttle bus service. This invaluable amenity connects Bass Harbor to other points of interest within Acadia National Park (including popular trailheads on both the quiet and busy sides) and the vibrant town of Bar Harbor, significantly reducing the hassle of driving and finding parking within the park. This blend of peaceful location with excellent transportation links makes Bass Harbor Campground an exceptionally convenient and attractive option for Maine locals exploring Acadia.

Bass Harbor Campground goes beyond basic camping, offering a wide array of services and amenities designed to enhance comfort and enjoyment for all types of campers, from RV enthusiasts to tenters and those seeking cabin comforts.

• Diverse Site Options: The campground boasts over 100 shaded or wooded sites, accommodating various camping styles. This includes "full or partial hookup campsites" for RVs (with 20, 30, and 50 amp electric, water, and sewer connections), as well as "tent spots (some with elevated platforms)" and even group tenting areas.
• Lodging Styles: For those without a traditional camping setup, Bass Harbor Campground offers "plenty of lodging styles," including cozy "cabins tucked into the trees" and unique "yurts."
• Heated Swimming Pool: A significant highlight is the "heated pool," providing a refreshing and relaxing spot for families and individuals.
• Clean Bathrooms and Showers: Campers can enjoy "clean showers (private for guests only)" and "flush toilets" in well-maintained bathhouses, with hot water available for free.
• Dishwashing Station: A convenient outdoor dishwashing station is available, making cleanup after meals much easier.
• Camp Store & Gift Shop: A "small store" and gift shop are on-site, providing "essentials needed if you are in a pinch," plus gifts related to the Bass Harbor Lighthouse, and typically offers ice and local firewood. They also often offer coffee and muffins in the morning.
• Recreational Facilities: The campground features a "playground, perfect for the kiddos," a rec room/game room, and sports courts like a volleyball court and shuffleboard area.
• Wi-Fi and Cable TV: Free Wi-Fi service is available, and RV sites often come with cable TV hookups.
• Laundry Facilities: On-premises laundry facilities are available for guest convenience.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground "allows pets" and even includes a "dog run" or dog park, making it easy to bring the whole family, including furry friends.
• Dump Station: A dump station is provided for RV waste.
• Fresh Lobster: According to some information, fresh lobsters may be available directly from a lobsterman nearby for those who wish to cook their own authentic Maine meal.

Bass Harbor Campground's key features and highlights are what make it a particularly appealing destination for Maine locals and visitors seeking a blend of adventure and comfort on Mount Desert Island.

• Proximity to Bass Harbor Head Light: Its location "right near a lighthouse" (the iconic Bass Harbor Head Light) is a major draw, offering easy walking access to this historic and picturesque landmark, perfect for sunrise or sunset visits.
• "Quiet Side" Acadia Experience: Situated on the less crowded western side of Mount Desert Island, the campground provides a more peaceful and "quaint" atmosphere compared to the bustling Bar Harbor area, ideal for relaxation.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The "heated pool," "playground," and "rec room" cater specifically to families with children, ensuring plenty of entertainment for younger campers.
• Diverse Lodging Options: From full-hookup RV sites and traditional tent spots (including "elevated platforms") to comfortable cabins and unique yurts, the campground offers a wide range of choices to suit different preferences and budgets.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Reviewers consistently praise the "clean showers (private for guests only)," "flush toilets," and "dishwashing station," highlighting the commitment to guest comfort and hygiene.
• Friendly and Pleasant Staff: The "staff were also so nice and pleasant" and "friendly staff to assist in all your needs" contribute significantly to a welcoming and positive camping experience.
• Easy Acadia National Park Access: While on the quiet side, the campground provides "easy drive to Acadia" and, crucially, access to the free Island Explorer shuttle bus, allowing for stress-free exploration of the entire park, including the busy eastern side.
• Wooded and Shaded Sites: The "120 shady or wooded sites" offer natural privacy and a pleasant, natural ambiance for campers.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: With pets welcome and a dedicated "dog run," it's a great choice for those traveling with their canine companions.

Bass Harbor Campground, as a privately owned and family-operated establishment, occasionally offers promotions and special rates. While specific deals can vary by season and availability, it's always a good idea for Maine residents to inquire directly or check their official website for the most current offers. Based on general campground practices and some available information, potential promotions or special offers might include:

• Seasonal Rates: Rates vary by season (off-season, in-season, peak season), with lower prices typically available during the shoulder months (mid-May to mid-June and October). For example, basic tent sites might range from $34 (off-season) to $46 (peak season), and full hookup RV sites from $56 to $73.
• Minimum Stay Requirements: While not a discount, understanding minimum stay requirements (e.g., 2-day minimum for cabins/yurts in off-season, 3-day minimum for all sites during peak season and holidays) can help plan your trip effectively.
• Military Discount: Some campgrounds, including those mentioned in search results (though not explicitly for Bass Harbor Campground in all cases), offer military discounts. It's worth inquiring if a discount is available for active duty service members or veterans.
• Good Sam Discount: As listed on Good Sam, Bass Harbor Campground offers a 10% discount for Good Sam members, which can be a significant saving for RVers.
• Extended Stay Discounts: While not explicitly stated, some campgrounds offer reduced rates for longer stays (e.g., weekly or monthly rates), which could be beneficial for those planning an extended Maine vacation.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on rates, availability, and any special offers, please visit the official Bass Harbor Campground website (bassharbor.com) or call them directly. Booking well in advance, especially for peak summer months and popular site types, is highly recommended.

Ready to plan your memorable family camping trip to Bass Harbor Campground? Here's how to reach them:

• Address: 342 Harbor Dr, Bass Harbor, ME 04653, USA
• Phone: (207) 244-5857
• Mobile Phone: +1 207-244-5857

Feel free to call them to check availability, make reservations, or ask any questions you might have about their sites, amenities, or local attractions. Their friendly staff is ready to help you plan your perfect Acadia adventure.

For Maine residents, Bass Harbor Campground stands out as a highly suitable and appealing choice for a memorable coastal camping experience. Its location on the "quiet side" of Mount Desert Island offers a serene retreat from the crowds, yet provides immediate and convenient access to Acadia National Park and the iconic Bass Harbor Head Light. This balance of tranquility and accessibility is a significant draw for locals who appreciate the best of both worlds.

The campground's comprehensive amenities, including a heated pool, clean modern restrooms with hot showers, a camp store, and diverse lodging options from RV sites to yurts and cabins, cater to a wide range of preferences and ensure a comfortable stay for families and individuals alike. The friendly and helpful staff consistently receives praise, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. Furthermore, the availability of the free Island Explorer shuttle bus directly from the campground is an invaluable feature, making exploration of the entire island, including Bar Harbor and various park trails, incredibly convenient without the stress of parking. For Mainers seeking a well-equipped, family-friendly, and perfectly located basecamp to discover the unique charm of Acadia's quiet side, Bass Harbor Campground offers an exceptional and truly local experience.

Bass Harbor Campground

342 Harbor Dr, Bass Harbor, ME 04653, USA