Acadia National Park, located primarily on Maine’s Mount Desert Island, is a stunning natural reserve known for its rugged coastal beauty, diverse ecosystems, and rich wildlife. It’s renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including Cadillac Mountain, the highest point along the North Atlantic seaboard, offering spectacular sunrise views. The park encompasses forests, lakes, and mountains, providing ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Its network of carriage roads, designed by John D. Rockefeller Jr., is a testament to thoughtful conservation and offers a unique way to explore the park’s interior.
Does Acadia National Park offer RV Camping?
Yes, Acadia National Park offers RV camping, but with some limitations. The park’s campgrounds accommodate RVs, although size restrictions apply and vary by campground. RV camping is popular, so it’s advisable to make reservations well in advance, especially during peak seasons. However, there are no utility hookups available within the park.
Acadia National Park Contact Details
- Address: Acadia National Park, P.O. Box 177, Bar Harbor, ME 04609-0177
- Phone: 207-288-3338
- Website: https://www.nps.gov/acad/index.htm
Acadia National Park RV Sites and Rates
Blackwoods Campground
- Located on Mount Desert Island, close to beaches and attractions
- Offers 266 campsites, with 59 accommodating RVs up to 35 feet
- Sites have electric hookups (20/30/50 amp) and water, but no sewer
- Dump station available within the campground
- Rates range from $30 to $60 per night depending on site size and season.
Schoodic Woods Campground
- Nestled in the woods on the Schoodic Peninsula, offering a peaceful setting
- Provides 177 campsites, with 20 accommodating RVs up to 30 feet
- Sites have electric hookups (20/30 amp) and water, but no sewer
- Dump station is about 1 mile away
- Rates range from $22 to $40 per night depending on site size and season.
Seawall Campground
- Situated on the Schoodic Peninsula, offering ocean views and hiking access
- Features 242 campsites, with 29 accommodating RVs up to 35 feet
- Sites have electric hookups (20/30/50 amp) and water, but no sewer
- Dump station located nearby
- Rates range from $22 to $30 per night depending on site size and season
Each of these campgrounds offers a different experience, from more rustic, nature-immersed settings to sites with modern amenities. It’s advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons, as these sites are quite popular.
Acadia National Park Amenities for RV Camping
General
- Flush toilets
- Running water
- Picnic tables
- Fire rings
- Dump station(s)
Site-specific
- Blackwoods Campground: No electric hookups
- Seawall Campground: Electric hookups (20/30/50 amp), Water; dump station nearby
- Schoodic Woods Campground: Electric hookups (20/30 amp), Water; dump station 1 mile away
Additional (not available at all campgrounds)
- Food storage lockers
- Camp store
- Cell phone reception
- Internet connectivity
- Trash/recycling collection
- Showers (may be located outside campground)
Important Notes
- Firewood cannot be brought into the park. Purchase firewood locally.
- Generators are only allowed between 8:00 am and 10:00 pm.
- Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season (May-September).
Acadia National Park Campground Map
Things to do at Acadia National Park
- Hiking: The park is a hiker’s paradise with trails like the challenging Beehive Trail, which involves climbing using iron rungs, and more moderate options like the Ocean Path, Great Head Trail, and the Gorham Mountain Loop. For those seeking less strenuous hikes, the Wonderland Trail offers an easy walk.
- Jordan Pond House: A historic spot famous for its popovers, located on the shore of Jordan Pond. It’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenery, and you can also take a stroll around the pond or embark on other nearby trails.
- Carriage Roads: These historic roads, funded and built by John D. Rockefeller Jr., offer 45 miles of paths for hiking, walking, and biking, winding through some of the most scenic parts of the park.
- Boat Tours: Numerous companies offer boat tours around the islands and coastline of Acadia, including sightseeing cruises, fishing trips, puffin cruises, and sunset nature cruises.
- Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse: This iconic lighthouse is a popular spot for sunset viewing and photography, offering stunning views of Maine’s coastline.
- Echo Lake: A beautiful and quieter lake on Mount Desert Island, ideal for a scenic hike or a relaxing time at the small beach.
- Thunder Hole: A dramatic natural feature where waves crash into a small cave, creating a thunderous sound and sometimes shooting spray high into the air.
- Sand Beach: A rare sandy beach in the northern region, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Maine’s rocky cliffs.
- The Bubbles: Hike up North Bubble and South Bubble for panoramic views of Jordan Pond, the surrounding forest, mountains, and glimpses of the ocean.
- Schoodic Peninsula: A quieter part of the park, offering peaceful hiking and exploration opportunities amongst beautiful landscapes.
- Wild Gardens of Acadia: Observe over 400 native plant species in a tranquil setting, with informative displays about each species.
- Tidepooling: Explore tide pools and discover various marine species, including snails, crabs, starfish, and clams.
Nearby Attractions at Acadia National Park
Bar Harbor (Distance: 0.5 miles)
Immerse yourself in maritime charm. Stroll the vibrant waterfront, browse eclectic shops, and savor fresh seafood. Learn about marine life at the Bar Harbor Whale Watching Museum, or embark on a boat tour for potential whale, dolphin, and seal sightings.
Schoodic Peninsula (Distance: 11 miles)
Discover Acadia’s quieter side. Hike scenic trails with ocean panoramas, explore charming villages like Southwest Harbor and Bass Harbor, and witness the dramatic power of Thunder Hole. Relax on Goose Cove Beach or kayak amidst the tranquil waters of Somes Sound.
Blue Hill (Distance: 24 miles)
Embrace the artistic spirit. Visit the renowned Blue Hill at Stonecoast Maine for contemporary art exhibitions and captivating ocean views. Hike Blue Hill Mountain for panoramic vistas, or explore the town’s hidden gems like art galleries and antique shops.
Bucksport & Fort Knox (Distance: 25 miles)
Dive into history. Tour Fort Knox, an active military fort with fascinating fortifications and historical exhibits. In Bucksport, visit the Maine Maritime Museum to learn about Maine’s significant maritime heritage and its impact on the region.
Ellsworth (Distance: 29 miles)
Savor the local flavors. Browse the Ellsworth Farmers Market for fresh produce and handcrafted goods, or treat yourself to a brewery tour and tasting at Maine Beer Co. Explore the historic downtown with its antique shops and art galleries, soaking in the town’s unique charm.
Brief History of Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park, the first national park east of the Mississippi River, has a rich history that reflects the broader narrative of American conservation. The park’s origins date back to the early 20th century when a group of visionary conservationists and wealthy philanthropists, including Charles W. Eliot and John D. Rockefeller Jr., became concerned about the increasing development on Mount Desert Island in Maine. They began acquiring land to preserve its natural beauty.
In 1916, the land was designated as Sieur de Monts National Monument, and in 1919 it was re-designated as Lafayette National Park, becoming the first national park in the eastern United States. It was later renamed Acadia National Park in 1929, reflecting the area’s historical connection to the French colony of Acadia. The park is known for its stunning landscapes, including rocky coastlines, dense woodlands, and Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entrance fee for Acadia National Park?
Yes, Acadia National Park charges an entrance fee for all visitors, regardless of whether they’re entering by car, bike, foot, or even the Island Explorer bus. This fee helps maintain the park’s infrastructure, protect its natural resources, and support visitor services.
You can purchase your entrance fee in advance online through Recreation.gov or at park visitor centers, campgrounds, and gift shops upon arrival.
- Private vehicle: $35 (valid for 7 days)
- Motorcycle: $30 (valid for 7 days)
- Individual (walk-in, bike, etc.): $20 (valid for 7 days)
- Acadia Annual Pass: $70 (valid for one year at Acadia National Park only)
Why is Acadia National Park famous?
Acadia National Park is adored for its dramatic coastline, glacier-carved mountains like Cadillac Mountain (highest on the East Coast!), diverse forests, and charming historical towns like Bar Harbor. This scenic blend of nature and culture attracts millions of visitors annually.
What city is Acadia National Park located?
Acadia National Park sprawls across Mount Desert Island and Isle au Haut in Maine, off the coast of the northeastern United States.
Is Acadia National Park open year around?
Yes! But with seasonal variations. While hiking and camping are best in spring, summer, and fall, Acadia offers winter recreation like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Some facilities have limited winter hours.
Can I bring my pets to Acadia National Park?
Yes, but with restrictions. Keep your furry friend on a leash at all times and clean up after them. Avoid sensitive areas like beaches and hiking trails unless explicitly designated pet-friendly. Remember, responsible pet ownership is key to keeping everyone safe and enjoying the park!