Mt Desert Narrows Campground

For those in Maine dreaming of a coastal getaway that combines the tranquility of waterfront camping with easy access to one of the nation's most beloved national parks, Mt Desert Narrows Campground in Bar Harbor presents an intriguing option. Situated directly on the water, this campground promises stunning views and a strategic base for exploring the vibrant Bar Harbor area and the majestic landscapes of Acadia National Park. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview for local users in Maine interested in learning more about what this campground has to offer.

Maine's appeal as a premier camping destination is rooted in its diverse natural beauty, from its rugged coastline to its vast forests. Mt Desert Narrows Campground capitalizes on this, offering a unique opportunity to camp with panoramic ocean views. While many campgrounds provide a simple patch of land, Mt Desert Narrows strives to deliver a more resort-style experience, with amenities designed to enhance comfort and provide entertainment for all ages. It's an environment that encourages both relaxation by the water and active exploration of the surrounding wonders.

The concept of a "camping resort" implies a blend of traditional outdoor living with modern conveniences and recreational facilities. At Mt Desert Narrows, this includes features like a heated pool, various sports courts, and even organized activities during peak season. This comprehensive approach aims to cater to a wide range of campers, from those who prefer rustic tenting to RV enthusiasts seeking full hook-ups, and even those looking for a comfortable cabin stay. Understanding these offerings is key to deciding if this campground aligns with your vision for a perfect Maine vacation.

This overview will delve into what makes Mt Desert Narrows Campground a popular choice for many, covering its prime location, the extensive services and amenities it provides, and its unique features that contribute to a memorable camping experience in the heart of coastal Maine.

Mt Desert Narrows Campground is ideally situated at 1219 ME-3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA. This location is a major highlight, placing the campground right on the water with picturesque views of Frenchman's Bay. Being on Mount Desert Island, it offers campers direct access to the diverse attractions of the Bar Harbor area and the natural wonders of Acadia National Park.

The campground's proximity to major attractions is a significant advantage. It is just minutes away from the vibrant town of Bar Harbor, renowned for its charming downtown with an array of shops, seafood restaurants, and various tourist activities like whale watching tours. More crucially, it provides convenient access to Acadia National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States. Campers can easily explore Acadia's hiking trails, scenic carriage roads perfect for biking, and iconic landmarks such as Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, and Thunder Hole.

A key aspect of its accessibility, highly praised by previous visitors, is the direct stop for the free Island Explorer Shuttle bus. This service allows campers to travel to Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park, and other points of interest across Mount Desert Island without the need to drive and find parking, which can be a significant convenience during peak season. This makes it an excellent base for those who wish to leave their vehicle at their site and explore the region eco-consciously.

For those traveling from further away, Bangor International Airport (BGR) is the closest major airport, approximately an hour's drive from Bar Harbor. The drive to the campground along scenic Route 3 provides a beautiful introduction to coastal Maine's landscapes, setting the tone for a memorable outdoor adventure. The combination of waterfront serenity, town convenience, and direct park access truly makes Mt Desert Narrows Campground a strategically located choice for your Maine vacation.

Mt Desert Narrows Campground offers a comprehensive range of services and amenities designed to provide a comfortable and engaging camping experience for its guests. These include:

• Diverse Site Options: Accommodations for various camping styles, including tent sites (some elevated with platforms and views), pop-up sites, and a wide range of RV sites with full hook-ups (30 & 50 amp electric, water, sewer), including back-in and pull-through options, and some with panoramic ocean views. They also offer vacation cottage rentals and RV trailer rentals.
• Heated Swimming Pool: A popular amenity for relaxation and fun, especially for families.
• Clean Restrooms & Showers: Well-maintained and cleaned daily.
• Laundry Facilities: Coin-operated laundry machines for guest convenience.
• Camp Store: A well-stocked resort store offering essentials like ice, firewood, propane, snacks, and other camping necessities.
• Kayak & Canoe Rentals: Available on-site for exploring the waters of Frenchman's Bay directly from the campground.
• Lobster Dinners & Ice Cream Socials: The campground offers organized events like lobster dinners and ice cream socials, fostering a sense of community.
• Pancake Breakfasts & Free Hayrides: Additional activities and dining options, particularly popular with families.
• Playground: A massive playground for children to enjoy.
• Sports Courts: Includes horseshoe pits, volleyball courts, and a basketball court.
• Video Arcade / Game Room: Provides indoor entertainment.
• Free Wi-Fi Access: Available at the park, though quality may vary at individual sites.
• Cable TV Hook-up: Available at many RV sites.
• Propane Services: Available for purchase on-site.
• Free Island Explorer Shuttle Service: Convenient pick-up and drop-off at the campground, providing easy transportation around Mount Desert Island and to Acadia National Park.

These comprehensive services aim to create a "resort" atmosphere, providing entertainment and convenience in addition to the natural beauty of the location.

Mt Desert Narrows Campground stands out with several key features and highlights that enhance the camping experience for visitors to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park:

• Waterfront Location with Ocean Views: A major draw, offering campers the unique opportunity to stay directly on Frenchman's Bay with beautiful panoramic ocean views, particularly stunning at sunset.
• Direct Access to the Free Island Explorer Shuttle: This is an invaluable convenience, allowing guests to easily access Bar Harbor and various points within Acadia National Park without dealing with parking challenges. Dogs are even allowed on the shuttle, making it convenient for pet owners.
• Heated Swimming Pool: A significant amenity that provides a refreshing and fun option for relaxation, especially for families, adding a resort-style touch to the camping experience.
• Variety of Site Types: From tent sites, including elevated platforms with views, to full hook-up RV sites (including 50-amp options) and even vacation cottage rentals, the campground caters to diverse preferences and needs.
• On-site Recreational Activities: The campground offers a range of activities including a playground, horseshoe, volleyball, and basketball courts, a video arcade, and seasonal live entertainment, ensuring there's always something to do.
• Kayaking and Boating Opportunities: Direct water access from the campground allows for kayaking and other small boating activities right on Frenchman's Bay, with rentals available on-site. (Note: Be aware of tides when kayaking to avoid getting stuck in mud, as mentioned in a review).
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are allowed, though they must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet when outside the vehicle. This makes it a welcoming option for campers traveling with their furry companions.
• Proximity to Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park: While providing a serene waterfront setting, the campground is just minutes away from the bustling town of Bar Harbor and the entrance to Acadia National Park, blending convenience with natural immersion.

These features collectively create a well-rounded and engaging camping environment that appeals to a wide variety of visitors seeking an active yet comfortable Maine vacation.

Mt Desert Narrows Campground, as part of the Bar Harbor Camping Resorts / Thousand Trails network, may offer various promotions and special deals throughout the year. While specific, current, publicly advertised "promotions" directly from the provided reviews are not available, it's common for large camping resort chains to have the following types of offers:

• Good Sam Club Discount: Many Thousand Trails properties, including Mt Desert Narrows, offer a discount (often 10%) for Good Sam Club members. Guests typically need to provide their membership card upon arrival.
• Military & First Responder Discounts: Appreciation discounts for active duty and retired military personnel, as well as first responders, are often available. These usually require showing valid ID.
• Seasonal Rates & Packages: Rates naturally vary by season, with lower prices often available during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) compared to the peak summer months (July and August). The campground might also offer special packages for longer stays (e.g., weekly or monthly discounts).
• Email Newsletter/Website Sign-up Offers: Potential for exclusive deals by signing up for their email newsletters or checking the "Special Offers" section on their official website.

It is crucial for prospective campers to directly contact Mt Desert Narrows Campground or visit their official website (often under the Thousand Trails umbrella) to inquire about the most current promotions, seasonal pricing, and any eligibility requirements. Given the popularity of the Bar Harbor area, booking well in advance, especially for full hook-up sites and during peak season, is highly recommended.

For direct inquiries, reservations, or to gather more specific details about Mt Desert Narrows Campground, you can reach them using the following contact information:

• Address: 1219 ME-3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
• Phone: (207) 288-8106
• Mobile Phone: +1 207-288-8106

It is advisable to call during their standard business hours to speak directly with a staff member who can assist with availability, site-specific questions (especially concerning hook-ups), and any current policies or promotions. Given the feedback from some previous customers regarding communication about site specifics, a direct phone call to confirm details about your reserved site's amenities (e.g., full hook-ups) is highly recommended before arrival to ensure a smooth and pleasant check-in experience. You can also likely find more information on their official website, which may be part of the larger Thousand Trails or Bar Harbor Camping Resorts network.

For Mainers seeking a blend of coastal charm, convenient access to world-renowned natural beauty, and a host of family-friendly amenities, Mt Desert Narrows Campground offers a compelling option. Its prime location directly on Frenchman's Bay provides picturesque water views and the unique opportunity to kayak right from the campground, connecting locals with the iconic beauty of their own coastline.

The most significant advantage for residents is the unparalleled access to Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor. The availability of the free Island Explorer Shuttle directly from the campground is a game-changer, allowing Mainers to explore the park's vast trails, scenic carriage roads, and Bar Harbor's vibrant downtown without the typical parking frustrations. This makes it an ideal base for quick day trips or extended stays, minimizing travel hassle and maximizing exploration time.

While some past experiences have highlighted issues with full hook-up site availability and temporary localized odors due to maintenance, the campground generally provides a well-rounded camping experience. The heated pool, various sports courts, and scheduled activities contribute to a fun and engaging atmosphere for families. For those who enjoy a more "resort-style" camping with amenities like laundry facilities and a camp store, Mt Desert Narrows delivers. Overall, despite potential past issues, the fundamental strengths of its location, diverse offerings, and the convenience of the shuttle service make Mt Desert Narrows Campground a highly suitable and enjoyable choice for Mainers looking for an accessible and amenity-rich outdoor escape on Mount Desert Island.

Mt Desert Narrows Campground

1219 ME-3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA