Camping on the Only Fjord on the U.S. East Coast
Mount Desert Campground sits on the western shore of Somes Sound in Somesville, the historic village near the head of the only fjord on the U.S. East Coast. This is one of the longest-running private campgrounds on Mount Desert Island and a favorite for families who want a quieter alternative to the National Park Service campgrounds inside Acadia National Park.
The location is the draw. The campground occupies a wooded hillside that drops down to the shoreline of Somes Sound, with many sites on tent platforms perched above the water. The view east across the sound takes in Norumbega Mountain and the spine of Acadia, and the protected water is excellent for kayaking, paddleboarding, and small-boat fishing.
Sites and Setup
Mount Desert Campground offers tent sites, small RV sites, and trailer sites. The campground caps RV and trailer length at 20 feet, so this is not a destination for larger rigs. The size cap, combined with the wooded layout and tent platforms, gives the campground a quieter feel than larger commercial campgrounds elsewhere on the island.
Many sites are waterfront or have water views. Tent platforms make pitching a tent easier on uneven ground and reduce mud during wet weather. Water and electric hookups are available at some sites, and metered hot showers, restrooms, and a small store with ice cream and coffee service are on the property.
The campground also rents kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards, which is especially convenient if you do not want to haul boats up to Mount Desert Island.
Reservations and Season
Reserve early. Mount Desert Island campgrounds across the board are heavily booked through July and August, and the most desirable waterfront platforms at Mount Desert Campground go first. Check the campground’s reservation system the moment the next year opens for booking.
The campground is open seasonally, typically from late May through mid-October. The shoulder seasons in early June and September deliver the same beautiful setting with thinner crowds, lower prices, and cooler weather that is excellent for hiking in Acadia.
For current rates, opening dates, and reservation information, visit mountdesertcampground.com or call the campground directly.
What’s Nearby
Mount Desert Campground is one of the best base camps for exploring Acadia National Park because of its central island location. From the campground, the drive to:
- The Acadia National Park Hulls Cove Visitor Center is roughly 20 minutes
- Bar Harbor village is about 15 minutes
- Cadillac Mountain and the Park Loop Road is 15 to 20 minutes
- The quieter west side of the park (Bass Harbor, Seawall) is 20 to 30 minutes
The campground is also walking distance from Somesville itself, a tiny historic village with a famous white footbridge, a library, a small restaurant or two, and a pleasant working waterfront feel.
Dog Policy
Mount Desert Campground does not allow dogs during the peak summer season. Dogs are typically welcomed in the early and late shoulder weeks but are not permitted from late June through early September. If you are traveling with a dog in peak season, plan to camp elsewhere. Several Acadia National Park campgrounds allow dogs year-round.
When to Go
Late Spring
Late May and early June. Quieter, cooler, with green-up underway. Some businesses still opening for the season.
Summer
Peak season with the warmest weather and longest days. Reservations essential, dogs not permitted.
Early Fall
September and early October. Cooler nights, foliage building, fewer crowds in the park.
Late Fall
After Columbus Day the campground closes for the season. Great hiking weather but limited services.
Packing List
Mount Desert Campground Essentials
- Tent appropriate for the season
- Warm sleeping bag (coastal Maine nights are chilly even in July)
- Layers (mornings on the sound are cool)
- Insect repellent for May through July
- Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
- Headlamp or lantern
- Cash for showers and store purchases
- Camera for the sound views
Getting There
Mount Desert Campground is at 516 Sound Drive in Mount Desert, Maine, about 5 minutes from the historic Somesville village center on Route 198. From Bar Harbor the drive is roughly 15 minutes. From Bangor, plan on about an hour. Cell service is generally good in this part of the island.
FAQ
Can large RVs stay at Mount Desert Campground?
No. The campground caps RV and trailer length at 20 feet. Larger rigs should look at other Mount Desert Island campgrounds that accommodate bigger vehicles.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are not permitted during the peak summer season (typically late June through early September). They are usually welcomed in the early and late shoulder weeks. Check current dates with the campground.
Is the campground inside Acadia National Park?
No. Mount Desert Campground is a private campground in Somesville on the west side of Mount Desert Island. The two NPS campgrounds inside the park are Blackwoods and Seawall.
Can I swim at the campground?
Yes. The campground has access to Somes Sound for swimming. The water is cold but the protected sound is calmer than the open ocean. Many guests prefer the kayak rentals to swimming.
How far to Bar Harbor?
About 15 minutes by car. The campground is centrally located on the island and convenient to both the busy east side of Acadia and the quieter west side.
For other Acadia-area camping, see Blackwoods Campground and Seawall Campground.
