Site C15 - Mount Desert Island Campground

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Welcome, fellow Mainers, to an in-depth look at a true gem of our state’s outdoor offerings: Site C15 – Mount Desert Island Campground. For those of us who cherish the rugged beauty of our coast and the serene escape of a night under the stars, this campground provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature without straying too far from the comforts we appreciate. Situated on the iconic Mount Desert Island, this spot is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a gateway to the very best of Maine’s natural wonders.

Mount Desert Island, as many of you know, is home to the breathtaking Acadia National Park, and this campground offers a unique vantage point to explore its diverse landscapes. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the ocean, with the crisp Maine air filling your lungs, ready for a day of exploration, hiking, or simply relaxing by the water. This guide aims to provide you with a comprehensive overview of what makes Mount Desert Island Campground a premier choice for your next camping adventure, focusing on the details that matter most to local residents looking for their perfect getaway.

From its prime location on Somes Sound to the thoughtful services and features designed to enhance your stay, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor experience, Mount Desert Island Campground provides a friendly and accommodating environment that truly captures the spirit of Maine. Let's delve into what makes this campground a standout destination for us locals.

Mount Desert Island Campground is uniquely positioned at Mt Desert, ME 04660, USA, offering a prime location directly on the salt water shore of beautiful Somes Sound. For those unfamiliar, Somes Sound is a natural fjord, the only one on the East Coast of the United States, providing stunning waterfront views and a tranquil environment. This unparalleled setting means campers can enjoy the serene beauty of the ocean right from their campsite, a truly distinctive feature that sets this campground apart.

The accessibility of Mount Desert Island Campground is a significant advantage for Maine residents. It's conveniently located just minutes from both Bar Harbor, a vibrant town known for its shops, restaurants, and lively atmosphere, and the expansive Acadia National Park. This proximity allows for easy day trips to explore the park's renowned hiking trails, carriage roads, and scenic viewpoints, including the famous Cadillac Mountain. The convenience of being so close to these major attractions, while still offering a peaceful retreat, makes it an ideal base for local adventurers.

For those traveling by car, the campground is easily reachable via well-maintained roads. While the exact directions will depend on your starting point within Maine, the address, Mt Desert, ME 04660, USA, is readily available for GPS navigation. It's important to note that while the campground is accessible, it maintains a quiet and natural ambiance, ensuring a true escape from the hustle and bustle. The scenic drive to the campground itself is part of the Maine experience, winding through picturesque landscapes that prepare you for the beauty that awaits. The strategic location on Mount Desert Island ensures that you are at the heart of coastal Maine's most beloved attractions, making every day an opportunity for new discoveries.

• Tenting Sites: A variety of sites suitable for traditional tent camping, offering a classic outdoor experience.
• Trailers & RV's (20 ft maximum): Sites are available for smaller trailers and RVs, accommodating a maximum length of 20 feet.
• Facilities with Metered Hot Showers: Clean and well-maintained shower facilities are available, with hot water provided on a metered basis for convenience.
• Salt Water Fishing: Opportunities for saltwater fishing directly from the campground's accessible areas.
• Salt Water Swimming: Designated areas for safe and enjoyable swimming in the refreshing saltwater of Somes Sound.
• Kayak, Canoe & SUP Rentals: On-site rentals of kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards, allowing campers to explore Somes Sound at their leisure.
• Picnic Tables & Firepits at Each Site: Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a firepit, perfect for outdoor dining and evening campfires.
• Electric & Water Hookups: Many sites offer the convenience of electric and water hookups for RVs and trailers.
• Ice Cream, Coffee & Pastries: A small on-site offering of popular treats, perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon indulgence.
• Launching Ramp: A convenient launching ramp for personal watercraft, allowing easy access to Somes Sound.
• Cellular Service & WiFi: While aiming for a natural escape, the campground does provide cellular service and WiFi to keep you connected when needed.
• Deepwater Moorings Available: For those arriving by boat, deepwater moorings are available, offering a unique way to experience the area.

• Waterfront & Wooded Sites: The campground boasts a variety of sites, from serene wooded spots to highly sought-after waterfront locations directly on Somes Sound, offering diverse natural settings for every preference.
• Proximity to Acadia National Park: As a private campground located within Mount Desert Island, it provides exceptional access to Acadia National Park, allowing campers to easily explore its many trails, peaks, and scenic drives.
• Minutes from Bar Harbor: Enjoy the best of both worlds with the tranquility of the campground and the lively atmosphere of Bar Harbor, just a short drive away, offering dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
• Quiet and Clean Environment: The campground prides itself on maintaining a quiet and clean atmosphere, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable experience for all visitors, fostering a sense of peace and natural beauty.
• "Gathering Place" with Free Wi-Fi: A communal area known as the "Gathering Place" provides free Wi-Fi and serves daily treats from local bakeries, offering a comfortable spot to connect or unwind.
• On-Site Water Activities: With direct access to Somes Sound, campers can enjoy swimming, saltwater fishing, and the convenience of on-site kayak, canoe, and SUP rentals, making aquatic adventures easily accessible.
• Pet-Friendly (Off-Peak Season): Dogs are welcome during the off-peak season (outside of June 21 - September 1), allowing furry family members to join in on the camping fun.
• Family-Owned and Operated: With a history dating back to 1958 and now run by long-time campers, the campground maintains a personal touch, striving to provide a welcoming and memorable experience for generations of campers.
• Emphasis on Traditional Maine Camping: Mount Desert Island Campground focuses on providing a classic Maine camping experience, blending natural beauty with essential amenities for an authentic outdoor adventure.

As a local resident looking for the best value for your camping adventure in Maine, it's always a good idea to check directly with Mount Desert Island Campground for any current promotions or special offers. While specific, ongoing promotional codes or discounts for this particular campground are not widely advertised on general camping deal sites, many campgrounds in Maine, including those on Mount Desert Island, often have seasonal rates and policies that can be advantageous.

For example, it is common for campgrounds in Maine to offer different rates for peak and off-peak seasons. During the off-peak times, typically before late June and after early September, you might find lower nightly rates, more availability, and a quieter camping experience. Mount Desert Island Campground, for instance, has different rate structures for their "Peak Season" (June 21 - September 1) and "Off-Season" (May 22 - June 20 & September 2 - October 14). Booking during these shoulder seasons could potentially lead to savings.

Additionally, some campgrounds offer incentives for extended stays, or sometimes provide special discounts for military personnel or first responders through broader camping affiliations. While Mount Desert Island Campground may not directly list these specific discounts on their website, inquiring directly with their office about any current or upcoming promotions, especially for Maine residents, is highly recommended. It’s also wise to follow their official website or social media channels (if applicable) for timely announcements regarding any special deals, events, or loyalty programs they might introduce. For the most up-to-date and accurate information on any potential savings, a direct inquiry is always your best bet.

To plan your visit or inquire further about Site C15 – Mount Desert Island Campground, here is the essential contact information:

Address: Mt Desert, ME 04660, USA

Phone: (207) 244-3710

Their office hours are typically from 8 am to 6 pm daily during the camping season, with phone call hours from 9 am to 4 pm. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current operating hours, especially as they can vary by season. You can also find a contact form on their website, which can be useful for non-urgent inquiries.

For us Mainers, discovering a local escape that truly embodies the spirit of our state is a treasure, and Site C15 – Mount Desert Island Campground fits that description perfectly. This campground offers an ideal blend of rugged natural beauty and convenient access to the beloved attractions of Mount Desert Island, making it an exceptionally suitable destination for locals seeking a memorable outdoor experience.

One of the primary reasons this campground resonates with Maine residents is its authentic "Maine camping" atmosphere. It’s not an overly commercialized resort; instead, it provides quiet, clean, and well-maintained sites, allowing for a genuine connection with nature. Whether you prefer a serene wooded spot or a coveted waterfront site with direct views of Somes Sound, the options cater to the diverse preferences of local campers. Waking up to the tranquility of the sound and the scent of pine is a quintessential Maine experience, easily accessible from various parts of the state.

Furthermore, its strategic location is a significant draw. Being just minutes from both the vibrant town of Bar Harbor and the majestic Acadia National Park means that every day offers a new adventure. We know the value of convenience, and the ability to seamlessly transition from a peaceful morning at the campsite to a day of hiking, biking, or exploring the shops and eateries of Bar Harbor without extensive travel is a huge advantage. This makes it perfect for weekend getaways or longer vacations, allowing us to maximize our time enjoying the region rather than driving.

The services and features provided, such as on-site kayak and canoe rentals, metered hot showers, and the communal "Gathering Place" with local bakery treats, demonstrate an understanding of what makes a camping trip comfortable and enjoyable. These amenities, coupled with the opportunity for saltwater fishing and swimming right from the campground, cater to a variety of interests, ensuring there's something for every member of the family. The allowance for dogs during the off-peak season is also a thoughtful touch for those of us who love to bring our furry companions along.

Finally, the enduring family-owned history of Mount Desert Island Campground adds to its appeal. There’s a sense of dedication to maintaining a high-quality camping experience, passed down through generations. This commitment to hospitality and preserving the natural charm of the area truly distinguishes it. For locals, this means a reliable, welcoming, and consistently enjoyable camping destination that feels like a home away from home, year after year. It's a place where new memories can be made against the timeless backdrop of Maine's stunning coastline.

Site C15 - Mount Desert Island Campground

Mt Desert, ME 04660, USA