Seawall Campground
Serene, wooded campground in Acadia National Park, offering a peaceful escape on the 'quiet side' of Mount Desert Island.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Dad's 60th birthday trip
Seawall Campground
Best Time
Dad's 60th birthday trip
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Serene, wooded campground in Acadia National Park, offering a peaceful escape on the 'quiet side' of Mount Desert Island.
"By far our favorite campground in Acadia. Campsites are clean and spacious. But the location is everything."
Reserve Loops A or B
For a quieter, more private camping experience on the 'quiet side' of Acadia. :camping:
Pack for Lobster Lovers
Charlotte's Lobster Pound is a must-visit for fresh Maine lobster near the campground. :foodie:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seawall Picnic Area
Adjacent to campground
Stunning coastal views perfect for stargazing and sunrise. A must-visit spot!
The Natural Seawall
15-minute walk from campground
Witness the powerful ocean waves crash against this natural rock formation. Beautiful at sunset.
Charlotte's Lobster Pound
Near campground
Savor fresh, delicious Maine lobster just a stone's throw from your campsite. A true local delicacy.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Acadia's Gem
Embrace the 'Quiet Side'
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve Loops A or B
For a quieter, more private camping experience on the 'quiet side' of Acadia. :camping:
Pack for Lobster Lovers
Charlotte's Lobster Pound is a must-visit for fresh Maine lobster near the campground. :foodie:
Stargazing Spot
The Seawall picnic area offers incredible stargazing opportunities. :star:
Bathroom Window Alert!
Be aware of restroom window designs; some offer views into stalls. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve Loops A or B
For a quieter, more private camping experience on the 'quiet side' of Acadia. :camping:
Pack for Lobster Lovers
Charlotte's Lobster Pound is a must-visit for fresh Maine lobster near the campground. :foodie:
Stargazing Spot
The Seawall picnic area offers incredible stargazing opportunities. :star:
Bathroom Window Alert!
Be aware of restroom window designs; some offer views into stalls. :warning:
Fly Fishing Potential
Experienced campers looking for fly fishing spots should research local recommendations. :fishing_pole:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Seawall Campground is praised for its clean, spacious, and private campsites, as well as its excellent location for exploring the 'quiet side' of Acadia and enjoying coastal views. Visitors appreciate the proximity to fresh seafood and stargazing spots. However, some note the lack of showers and an unusual design in the restrooms.
"Stayed at Seawall for three nights while in the park recently. Check in was very easy and the rangers were helpful in explaining the campground rules. My site was in the A-loop and was very well maintained. Bathrooms and water were conveniently located to the camp sites and were well kept.
It is a bit of a distance from the Bar Harbor side of the park and driving through the Southwest Harbor is slower speeds, but the traffic through was minimal. Exploring the towns on this end was a good experience as they were not as busy as the other side. Even considering that most of my park activities required driving to the other side, I still thoroughly enjoyed staying here."
Jordan Olivio
"By far our favorite campground in Acadia. Campsites are clean and spacious. Bathrooms were clean and accessible. But the location is everything. It has close proximity to southern harbors and a short drive from the main park. Amazing picnic area just steps from the campground. Overall it makes the top of our list for recommended campgrounds."
Johnathan Blake
"Much more out of the way than Blackwoods Campground— you’ll have to drive to get to Acadia’s main attractions, and the closest town (Southwest Harbor) is not as tourist/camper-oriented as Bar Harbor. Convenient for sunset or sunrise visits to Bass Harbor Lighthouse, and only a 5 minute walk to the Seawall picnic area (great for stargazing and sunrises) or a 15 minute walk to the natural seawall (beautiful at sunset).
The campsites are a bit more separated from each other than the ones at Blackwoods, and the amenities are otherwise the same (flush toilets, potable water, and a dumpster, but no showers)."
Ingrid Messbauer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Seawall Campground is located on the 'quiet side' of Mount Desert Island, about a 30-40 minute drive from Bar Harbor. You'll drive through Southwest Harbor, which has slower speeds but minimal traffic.
Acadia National Park is serviced by the Island Explorer shuttle bus system during the summer months, which can be a convenient way to get around without a car. Check their schedule for routes that serve Seawall.
While Seawall is a bit further from Bar Harbor's main attractions, it's ideal for exploring the southern parts of the island, including Bass Harbor Lighthouse. Many visitors use their car for longer distances and the shuttle for local exploration.
Yes, Blackwoods Campground is closer to Bar Harbor and the park's main entrance. However, Seawall offers a more secluded experience.
Seawall Campground accommodates both tents and RVs. Ensure your RV size fits within the designated site dimensions when booking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Reservations are highly recommended and can be made through Recreation.gov. Book well in advance, as sites fill up quickly, especially for popular loops like A and B.
Seawall Campground typically operates from late May through early October. It's best to check the official Acadia National Park website for exact opening and closing dates for the season.
Yes, Acadia National Park requires an entrance fee. This fee covers access to the park for a set period. Campground fees are separate.
Cancellation policies are determined by Recreation.gov. Generally, you can cancel up to a certain number of days before your arrival date, but fees may apply. Check the specific terms when booking.
While Seawall is primarily reservation-based, it's always a good idea to check with the park rangers upon arrival for any last-minute cancellations or walk-in availability, though this is rare.
🎫 🏕️ Onsite Experience
Seawall offers flush toilets and potable water. However, there are no showers available at this campground.
Campfires are generally permitted in designated fire rings, but always check current fire restrictions with the park service before lighting one.
Cell service can be spotty within Acadia National Park, including at Seawall Campground. It's advisable to download offline maps and important information.
While bears are present in Acadia, specific food storage requirements like bear boxes are not always mandated at Seawall. However, it's crucial to store food properly in your vehicle or a bear-resistant container to prevent attracting wildlife.
Restrooms are available and generally well-maintained, but be aware that some have transparent windows that look into toilet stalls, which has been noted as a design flaw by some visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Charlotte's Lobster Pound is a highly recommended spot for fresh lobster just a short distance away. Southwest Harbor also offers various dining options.
Yes, you can find grocery stores in Southwest Harbor for stocking up on camping essentials and food.
Yes, you can cook at your campsite using your own camping stove or a campfire (if permitted). Many sites have picnic tables.
Seafood, especially lobster, is a major draw. You'll also find classic American fare and some local Maine specialties.
While not directly in the campground, Charlotte's Lobster Pound is a short walk away, and other dining options are a short drive in Southwest Harbor.
📸 📸 Photography
The Seawall picnic area offers stunning coastal vistas, and the natural seawall itself is dramatic, especially at sunset. Bass Harbor Lighthouse is also a popular nearby photo destination.
Absolutely! The Seawall picnic area is fantastic for both sunrise and sunset. The natural seawall is particularly beautiful at sunset.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal landscapes. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions like sunrise, sunset, and stargazing.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography within the campground itself, but always be respectful of other campers' privacy.
Sunset provides dramatic lighting and colors over the ocean. Early morning can also be beautiful with softer light and fewer people.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While Seawall is on the 'quiet side,' it's still a good base for exploring Acadia. The park's shuttle system can be a great way to get around with children, reducing the need to find parking at popular spots. Remember to pack layers, as coastal Maine weather can change quickly, and always supervise children near the water and rocky areas.
🎣 Anglers and Fly Fishermen
🚗 Road Trippers and RV Campers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Acadia's 'Quiet Side'
Despite being on the quieter side, Seawall is strategically located for certain experiences. It's a short walk to the Seawall picnic area, renowned for its stargazing and sunrise views, and also to the natural seawall itself, a dramatic coastal feature. For those seeking fresh seafood, Charlotte's Lobster Pound is conveniently nearby. This location makes it ideal for visitors who prefer a more relaxed pace and want to experience a different facet of Acadia National Park.
When planning your visit, remember that while Seawall offers a peaceful retreat, you'll likely need your vehicle to access the more popular hiking trails and attractions on the eastern side of the island. The park's shuttle system can supplement your travel, but having your own transportation offers the most flexibility for exploring both sides of Mount Desert Island.
Camping Comforts and Considerations
Campfires are a quintessential part of the camping experience, and they are typically allowed at Seawall in designated fire rings. Always check with the park rangers for current fire restrictions, as these can change based on weather conditions. Proper food storage is also crucial; while bear boxes aren't always standard, securing all food in your vehicle or a bear-resistant container is vital to prevent attracting wildlife.
A unique aspect of Seawall, as noted by some visitors, is the design of the restrooms, where some toilet stalls have transparent windows. While the facilities are kept clean, this is something to be aware of. Despite this minor quirk, the overall cleanliness and spaciousness of the sites contribute to a positive camping experience for many.
Culinary Delights Near Seawall
Beyond lobster, the nearby town of Southwest Harbor provides a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more established restaurants. This allows campers to easily stock up on groceries for meals at their campsite or enjoy a meal out. Planning your food stops in advance can enhance your overall experience, especially during peak season when popular spots can get busy.
For those who prefer to cook at their campsite, the availability of picnic tables at many sites makes meal preparation convenient. Whether you're grilling over a campfire or using a portable stove, enjoying a meal surrounded by nature is a core part of the camping adventure.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit