Update 7/3/2024: We have enjoyed spectacular weather this season. Come camp with us!
waterfront campsite surrounded by woods

Mount Desert Campground Frequently Asked Questions

We try to answer many of the questions you may have, if you still have questions, or would like to make a reservation, please contact us by phone (207) 244-3710 or make an online reservation now.

Can I make a reservation online?

*Please note:  Reservations may be made for a minimum of two nights.

How many people and cars do you allow per site?

We allow one car per site.  If you absolutely must bring a second vehicle, you may park it at our office lot for an additional $5 per night.

 Every site has specific occupancy and equipment parameters based on that site's terrain, size and amenities.  Some sites accommodate just tents while others allow for small trailers or RVs.  Certain sites allow a maximum of 6 people while others allow up to only 2 people.

*You must call us if your plans change and you intend to bring more people than you originally reserved for.  We have strict site occupancy limitations and we may or may not be able to accommodate your request.

Do you allow dogs?

Dogs are welcome when the season is quieter in the Off Season: May 23 to June 21 and then September 3 to October 15, 2024.  NO DOGS ALLOWED during Peak Season: June 22 to September 3, 2024.

What are tent platforms?

Tent platforms are wooden decks that you place your tent on as opposed to traditional ground sites.  In order to maintain as natural a setting as possible, we opted to use these decks rather than using fill to make a level area on some of the sites.  The platform keeps your tent drier even when it does not rain since it allows for good air circulation under your tent.  Almost all of the platforms are 12’X16’, a few of the smaller sites have 12’X12’ platforms.  Some of the new multiple room tents are too long to fit on the platforms so make sure your tent will fit.  Please note that we still have plenty of level sites for those who prefer to tent on the ground or for pop-up's.

How do I “stake” my tent to a platform?

We provide you with a bundle of nails to use in place of stakes.  You simply drive nails into the platform where your stakes would normally go and bend the nails over so they become hooks for the stake rings on your tent.

What do you rent for canoes, kayaks & paddle boards and what are the fees?

We rent Old Town Discovery canoes and a mixture of single and two person kayaks such as Perception Keowee/Keowee 2's and Old Town Loons. We only rent makes of kayaks that are very stable and maneuverable.  We have stand-up paddle boards, too!

Single kayaks:  1 hour:  $14  / 2 hours: $22 / 4 hours: $32

Tandem kayaks, canoes, paddleboards:  1 hour: $18 / 2 hours: $28 / 4 hours: $38

We add a half hour for travel and prep from the office (where the transaction occurs and where you pick up your paddles and PFDs) to the floating docks in the C section where the boats are located.

Can I take the rentals off premises?

No.  For your safety, the rentals remain for use here at the campground for registered guests only.

Can I bring my own canoe or kayak?

Yes, you may bring your own personal canoe or kayak but we limit the amount of canoes/kayaks that may be tied to the floats to one per family.

*No larger watercraft or any form of motorboat are to be tied to the floats.

Do you offer Internet access?

Yes, we offer free 200/10mbps Spectrum® Wi-Fi at the Gathering Place.  Wi-Fi is not available throughout the entire campground.

Do you have cell/data service?

Yes, most major carriers have a robust presence at the campground with high speed data and voice.

Does the free Island Explorer bus stop right at the campground?

Yes! We ARE a stop for the Explorer, see the 2024 Summer schedule here. Service begins in June 2024.

Do you have any job openings?

Click here for employment opportunities at Mount Desert Campground.

Do you have a dump station?

We are sorry, we do not.  There are septic dump stations close by.  Ask us for a list.

Do you have links to all-things local?

Oh, yes . . .

 

EDUCATIONAL INFO
Mount Desert Oceanarium & Lobster Hatchery:  theoceanarium.com
Mount Desert Island Biological Laboratory offers programs throughout the summer: mdibl.org/events/
 
 
 
ENTERTAINMENT INFO
Real Pizza Cinerama: reelpizza.com
 
Acadia Repertory Theatre:  acadiarep.com/index.html
 
GARDENS
 
Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden https://www.rockgardenmaine.com

Asticou Azalea Garden   https://www.gardenpreserve.org/gardens
 
Charlotte Rhoades Park and Butterfly Garden http://www.rhoadesbutterflygarden.org/index.html
 
 
HIKING TRAIL INFO

See What Our Campers Are Saying

Don't take our word for it, view all our testimonials on Trip Advisor

This is one of our favorite campgrounds, ever! The waterfront campsites are breathtaking, the neighbors are respectful campers, and the grounds and facilities are meticulously maintained. Most sites have platforms for the tents, so set-up is easy. The staff are… read more

happy camper JC Mueller
Exeter, NH

Camped here for 5 days in early July. What a great location. Very convenient to whole island and all it has to offer. Campground is well maintained but rustic. We used bathhouse C which was fairly new and well cared for. There are pay showers, but very reasonable… read more

happy camper Benjy C.
Raleigh, North Carolina

What a great experience camping at Mount Desert Campground proved to be. The sites are top notch as are the facilities and the entire staff. My area was maintained primarily by Mathew Orr. He, his wife and boys were all tremendous hosts, ambassadors and neighbors.… read more

happy camper Bob T.
Scituate, Massachusetts