Smuggler's Den Campground

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For those in Maine seeking the quintessential coastal camping experience, Smuggler's Den Campground in Southwest Harbor offers an inviting blend of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and a truly family-friendly atmosphere. Nestled on the "Quietside" of Mount Desert Island, this campground provides an ideal base for exploring the iconic Acadia National Park and the charming communities of the region. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview for local users in Maine interested in learning more about this particular campground.

Maine's appeal as a camping destination is undeniable, with its rugged coastline, dense forests, and pristine lakes drawing outdoor enthusiasts from near and far. Smuggler's Den Campground stands out by offering more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it provides a comprehensive camping experience that balances rustic charm with modern comforts. Unlike some bare-bones campgrounds, Smuggler's Den has invested in facilities that enhance your stay, making it a comfortable and convenient option for a memorable Maine adventure.

The concept of a "family campground" is at the heart of Smuggler's Den. This means you can expect amenities and a welcoming environment designed to cater to all ages, from young children to adults. From heated pools to clean restrooms and a focus on maintaining a peaceful atmosphere, the campground aims to make your stay as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. It's about providing a well-maintained space where you can relax after a day of exploring, socialize with fellow campers, and truly embrace the beauty of Mount Desert Island.

This overview will delve into what makes Smuggler's Den Campground a highly recommended option for your next outdoor getaway, covering its prime location, the extensive services it provides, and its unique highlights that contribute to a truly enjoyable camping experience in the heart of coastal Maine.

Smuggler's Den Campground is strategically located at 20 Main St, Southwest Harbor, ME 04679, USA. This prime address places it on Mount Desert Island, directly bordering Acadia National Park on what is often referred to as the "Quietside." This less-crowded side of the island offers a serene and authentic Maine experience, while still providing exceptional accessibility to the region's most famous attractions.

The campground's direct border with Acadia National Park is a significant advantage. From your campsite, you can walk through the woods to Echo Lake Sand Beach in about 20 minutes, offering a freshwater swimming option and additional hiking trails. You can also directly access over 25 miles of Acadia National Park hiking trails, including those for Western and Beech Mountains, right from the campground. This immediate access to world-class natural beauty and recreational opportunities is a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts.

Beyond the park, Smuggler's Den is conveniently located just 1.5 miles from the charming village of Southwest Harbor. This quaint community offers a delightful array of local shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants, providing a taste of authentic Maine coastal life. Historic sites like Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and Seawall are just a short 10-minute drive away, offering iconic photo opportunities and breathtaking ocean views.

For those wishing to explore further afield on Mount Desert Island, the free Island Explorer Shuttle bus offers a convenient pick-up right from the campground office. This allows visitors to easily access other popular destinations like Bar Harbor (approximately a 20-mile drive), the Acadia National Park Visitor Center, Jordan Pond, and various other points of interest across the island, without the hassle of driving and parking. The overall accessibility, combined with the peaceful setting, makes Smuggler's Den an ideal base for a comprehensive Mount Desert Island adventure.

Smuggler's Den Campground prides itself on offering a wide array of services designed to enhance the comfort and convenience of all campers. These services go beyond basic amenities, catering to various camping styles and needs:

• Diverse Site Options: The campground offers a variety of sites including tent sites (some with electricity and water), pop-up sites, RV sites with full hook-ups (50/30/20 amp, water & sewer, including cement pads), group tent sites, rustic and deluxe camp cabins, and even 1- and 2-bedroom vacation rentals.
• Clean Restrooms & Free Hot Showers: Well-maintained bathhouses provide clean facilities with complimentary hot showers.
• Heated Swimming Pool & Kiddie Pool: A popular feature, especially for families, offering a refreshing way to relax.
• Free Wi-Fi & Cable TV: Available at various sites and rentals, providing connectivity and entertainment.
• Laundry Facilities: Coin-operated laundry machines for guest convenience.
• Camp Store: A fully stocked store offering essentials like campfire wood, ice, coffee, snacks, and even fresh lobsters.
• Lobster Cooking Supplies: The campground provides lobster pots and crackers for guests to borrow, along with cooking directions, enabling a true Maine culinary experience at your site.
• LP Gas: Available for purchase on-site.
• Free Island Explorer Shuttle Service: Convenient pick-up and drop-off at the campground entrance for island-wide transportation.
• On-Site Management & Patrols: Staff are available up front and patrols are conducted regularly, ensuring a quiet and secure environment after hours.
• Dish Sink Area: Dedicated outdoor sinks for washing dishes.

These comprehensive services demonstrate Smuggler's Den Campground's commitment to providing a comfortable, well-equipped, and enjoyable camping experience for all its guests.

Smuggler's Den Campground boasts numerous features and highlights that make it a highly recommended choice for campers in Maine:

• Exceptional Location: Directly borders Acadia National Park, offering walk-in access to extensive hiking trails and Echo Lake Beach. This proximity is a major advantage for exploring the park.
• Heated Swimming Pool & Kiddie Pool: A significant bonus, especially for families, providing a fun and refreshing activity within the campground.
• Cleanliness and Maintenance: Consistently praised in reviews for being well-maintained with clean restrooms and grounds, ensuring a pleasant stay.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: Reviewers frequently highlight the staff's professionalism, helpfulness, and welcoming demeanor, enhancing the overall guest experience.
• Peaceful and Private Atmosphere: Despite offering numerous amenities, the campground maintains a quiet and private ambiance, especially after hours, allowing for a relaxing retreat.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Cater to various preferences, from traditional tent and RV sites to rustic and deluxe cabins, as well as RV and vacation rentals.
• Fresh Local Lobster Available On-Site: A unique highlight allowing guests to purchase and cook fresh Maine lobster right at their campsite, with provided equipment.
• Free Island Explorer Shuttle Access: A major convenience that saves on driving and parking within Acadia National Park and other island attractions.
• Recreation Areas: Includes a playground for kids and a large recreational field for various sports or social events. While specific mentions of a basketball court vary across sources, a playground and open field are consistently noted.
• Family-Owned and Operated: The Worcester Family has owned and operated Smuggler's Den since 1969, contributing to a welcoming, personal touch.

These highlights collectively create a superior camping experience, blending the natural beauty of Acadia with thoughtful amenities and attentive service.

Smuggler's Den Campground frequently offers various promotions and special events throughout its season, designed to enhance the value and experience for its guests. While specific offers can vary by year and season, some notable examples include:

• Military Appreciation Weekend: The campground offers a free weekend stay for active and retired military personnel on specific dates, typically at the beginning of the season (e.g., late May/early June). This promotion often applies to both campsites and cabins.
• Customer Appreciation Events: Throughout the peak season (e.g., July and August), Smuggler's Den hosts events like free hot dogs, soda, games, and live music for their guests.
• Seasonal Discounts: While not always explicitly labeled as "promotions," rates for tent sites, RV sites, and various rentals are clearly listed on their website, with potential variations for different seasons and types of sites. Booking outside of peak season (July and August) often yields more availability and potentially lower rates.

It is always highly recommended to visit the official Smuggler's Den Campground website or contact them directly via phone to inquire about the most current promotions, seasonal rates, and availability. Reservations are strongly suggested, especially for July and August, and for cabins, RV sites, and water/electric sites, due to high demand.

For direct inquiries, reservations, or to gather more specific details about Smuggler's Den Campground, you can reach them using the following contact information:

• Address: 20 Main St, Southwest Harbor, ME 04679, USA
• Phone: (877) 244-9033
• Local Phone: (207) 244-3944

You can also visit their official website, which provides comprehensive information on rates, availability, policies, and a booking portal. It's advisable to call during their operating hours, which typically span from late May to mid-October, to speak with a staff member directly. This will ensure you receive the most accurate and up-to-date information for planning your camping trip to this well-regarded Maine destination.

For Mainers, Smuggler's Den Campground in Southwest Harbor offers an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for experiencing the best of coastal Maine and Acadia National Park. Its prime location on the "Quietside" of Mount Desert Island provides the perfect balance of peaceful natural surroundings and convenient access to world-class attractions. Locals who cherish the unique beauty of Acadia will appreciate the campground's direct border with the park, allowing for easy, walk-in access to hiking trails and Echo Lake Beach – a significant advantage that minimizes travel time and maximizes outdoor enjoyment.

The array of well-maintained amenities, including a heated swimming pool, clean restrooms with free hot showers, and Wi-Fi, ensures a comfortable and hassle-free camping experience, catering to various preferences from traditional tenting to RVing and cabin rentals. The friendly and helpful staff consistently receive praise, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere that feels like a true Maine hospitality experience. For families, the inclusion of a kiddie pool, playground, and organized social events makes it an ideal spot for creating lasting memories.

Furthermore, the unique offering of fresh, local lobsters for sale with provided cooking equipment allows Mainers to fully embrace their state's culinary heritage right at their campsite. The availability of the free Island Explorer Shuttle from the campground entrance is another invaluable feature, enabling convenient exploration of the entire island without the stress of parking. In essence, Smuggler's Den Campground provides a comprehensive, comfortable, and truly authentic Maine camping adventure, making it an excellent choice for locals seeking a memorable escape to one of the state's most cherished regions.

Smuggler's Den Campground

20 Main St, Southwest Harbor, ME 04679, USA