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The 5 Best Campgrounds Near Bar Harbor, ME

by Libby ThompsonNov 23, 2022
The 5 Best Campgrounds Near Bar Harbor, ME

Campgrounds near Bar Harbor, Maine, draw year-round travelers thanks to the tranquil harbor views, breathtaking autumn colors, and abundance of outdoor activities. From hiking and sailing to exploring the local museums and lobster joints, fun comes in all varieties at campgrounds near Bar Harbor, ME. Whether luxurious cabins or primitive tent sites are more your style, there are Bar Harbor campgrounds to suit your every need. 

1. Timberland Acres RV Park

campground near bar harbor, me with fall colored trees surrounding it

Nearby Attractions: Acadia National Park, Downeast Scenic Railroad, Lamoine State Park, Tidal Falls Preserve

Nearby Airports: Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, Bangor International Airport, Belfast Municipal Airport 

Unique Amenities: Arcade, shuffleboard, pool

Spread out and relax in the peace and quiet while still being just a short drive from Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. Timberland Acres RV Park is among the best campgrounds near Bar Harbor, ME, for campers craving a spacious site with plenty of shade and on-site amenities. Relax at the pool, join the kids at the arcade, or host a beautiful family reunion at the pavilion. No matter the time of year, your surroundings are sure to satisfy, with incredible fall foliage as well as serene nature preserves and water features nearby. From hiking to water sports, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the fresh air at gorgeous Bar Harbor campgrounds like this one. 

2. Forest Ridge Campground

two RVs parked in campground near bar harbor, me

Nearby Attractions: Maine Discovery Museum, Surry Forest, Jesse Beach, Acadia National Park

Nearby Airports: Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, Bangor International Airport, Belfast Municipal Airport 

Unique Amenities: Pool, playground, horseshoes

As a versatile home base with access to all that Downeast Maine has to offer, Forest Ridge Campground is one of the most convenient and spacious campgrounds near Bar Harbor, ME. The potential adventures here are countless with activities for the whole family right on the grounds, as well as quick commutes to neighboring towns like Blue Hill, Bucksport, Winter Harbor, and more. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly hikes and bike rides or adrenaline-pumping boat excursions, a stay at Forest Ridge Campground promises plenty of action. You can camp in any style at this campground near Bar Harbor, ME, with both RV spots and a rustic cabin available.

3. Balsam Cove Campground

dog park at campground near bar harbor, me

Nearby Attractions: Toddy Pond, Great Pond Mountain Wildlands, Sandy Point Beach, Bucksport, Fort Point State Park, Acadia National Park

Nearby Airports: Bangor International Airport, Belfast Municipal Airport, DeWitt Field/Old Town Municipal Airport 

Unique Amenities: Pond, beach, playground, dog park

Many campers venture to Maine in hopes of waking up to waterfront views and spending time out on a lake, pond, or sea. Adventurers on the hunt for campgrounds near Bar Harbor, ME, that don’t require leaving the grounds for a great time on the water need look no further than Balsam Cove Campground. Located right on Toddy Pond, this Bar Harbor campground beckons water sport lovers with plenty of kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and lounging on the beach. Birders flock to this region to admire species like mallard duck, Canada goose, and loon. Cabins, RV sites, and tent spots are all available, and there’s a variety of shady sites and waterfront views to choose from. With wildlife, family-friendly activities, and an idyllic pond right on the campground, you’ll never want to leave!

4. Cottonwood Camping and RV Park

a-frame cabin surrounded by trees in campground near bar harbor, ME

Nearby Attractions: Multi-Use Sunrise Trail System, Acadia National Park, Great Wass Island Preserve, Cottonwood Stables, Burnham Tavern Museum

Nearby Airports: Cutler Regional Airport, DeWitt Field/Old Town Municipal Airport, Machias Valley Airport

Unique Amenities: Live music, equipment rentals

One of the most popular campgrounds near Bar Harbor, ME, for ATV enthusiasts is Cottonwood Camping and RV Park—and for good reason! This campground is designed with adventure in mind, with easy access to ATV and dirt biking routes and even rentals available. Hop on hundreds of miles of trails right from camp and explore the beautiful woods of Downeast Maine. Prefer riding horses to riding ATVs? No problem. Cottonwood Camping and RV Park is not only dog-friendly but also horse-friendly, so you can camp with your horse! 

With an impressive variety of accommodation types available, there’s something for every type of camper at this Bar Harbor campground. Choose between standard options like RV sites, tent sites, and adorable A-frame cabins, or opt for something more unique, like a teepee or a treehouse! Regardless of your rental choice, this shady and serene campground offers an ideal mix of adventure and natural beauty. 

5. Cold River Campground

rv with patio in campground near bar harbor, ME

Nearby Attractions: Maine Forest and Logging Museum, Orono Trampoline Park, Orono Bog Boardwalk, Brewer Riverwalk, Paul Bunyan Statue, Acadia National Park

Nearby Airports: Bangor International Airport

Unique Amenities: Indoor recreation hall, pool, volleyball, playground

Immensely family-friendly and overflowing with amenities, Cold River Campground is easily one of the best campgrounds near Bar Harbor, ME, for campers with kids. With a wide variety of accommodation options, travelers can find comfort at a tent site, an RV spot, a room at the lodge, or a cozy cabin. These sites are ideal for unplugging from everyday life and getting back in touch with nature, as you’ll find yourself nestled among the tranquil tree cover with easy access to nature trails and various campground amenities. Nearby, explore historical sites like the Maine Forest and Logging Museum and the Paul Bunyan Statue, or breathe the fresh air and admire the natural beauty of the area at the surrounding parks and trails. 

Whether you visit to ogle the fall foliage or to set out on a boating adventure, campgrounds near Bar Harbor, Maine, offer every opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of Downeast Maine. From the picturesque hikes and viewpoints within Acadia National Park, to the idyllic lakes and thrilling ATV routes throughout the region, adventures abound at these Bar Harbor campgrounds. 

Libby Thompson is a freelance writer living in Denver, Colorado. Having grown up in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains, hiking and camping have been cornerstones of her life since childhood. Rain, snow, or shine, you can usually find her outdoors on a paddle board, a hiking trail, or a pair of skis. Libby can be reached via email at libby@libbywrites.com.

Image credits in order of appearance: Timberland Acres RV Park, Forest Ridge Campground, Balsam Cove Campground, Cottonwood Camping and RV Park, Cold River Campground