Guide to Blackwoods Campground at Acadia National Park
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If you are looking to spend the night in beautiful Acadia National Park, you might be looking for the best campground to meet your needs. One option is Blackwoods Campground, which is located just a few miles away from Bar Harbor Maine and Route 3.
Home to some gorgeous scenery and popular hiking trails, Blackwoods Campground has a lot to offer. Learn more about the campground below, and start planning your trip to Acadia National Park!
About Blackwoods Campground in Acadia National Park
Blackwoods Campground has approximately 281 sites, including 60 sites for RVs only. The campground is very close to Park Loop Road, which is one of the biggest reasons why it is among the most popular campgrounds in the entire park.
Blackwoods Campground’s Location
Blackwoods Campground is situated about 5 miles south of Bar Harbor and is very close to Route 3. You can get to the campground using the Island Explorer Shuttle, which is free, as well. The campground itself is about 10 minutes away from the ocean, and all of the campsites are situated among tall trees.
Unique Features at Blackwoods Campground
Before staying at Blackwoods Campground, you need to know about the features and amenities at the campground itself. A few key points to keep in mind include:
- Locations are available for both standard tents and RVs.
- The campground has picnic tables.
- Firewood is available, but make sure that you only start fires in fire pits.
- Phone service is available at the campground, but its reliability can vary depending on your phone.
- Potable water is available.
- You are allowed to have a dog at the campground, but it needs to be on a leash at all times.
- The campground has public toilets.
- You can consume alcohol at your campsite, but you cannot consume alcohol in any public area. This includes all public buildings and beaches.
Things to Know Before Visiting Blackwoods
In addition to unique features, you need to know a few important points before you visit Blackwoods Campground. These include:
- The campground is available all year, but if you plan on visiting during peak season between May and October, you need to make a reservation, which requires payment in advance.
- If you are visiting between June and October, the Island Explorer Shuttle runs. It is free and will provide access to some of the most popular locations throughout Mount Desert Island.
- While there are public toilets, there are no showers available at the campground. Otter Creek is about a half-mile away from the campground, and you can use its showers for a fee.
If you want to visit the campground during peak season, you should book your reservations pretty far in advance. Because of its prime location, Blackwoods Campground is one of the most popular campgrounds in Acadia National Park.
Things to Do at Blackwoods Campground
If you plan on staying at Blackwoods Campground, there are plenty of fun activities you can try. Here’s a look at a few to get you started.
Hiking
One of the main advantages of staying at Blackwoods Campground is that you will be close to some of the best hiking trails in the park. For example, you may want to try the Gorham Mountain Loop, which is about 3.5 miles and perfect for people of all hiking abilities.
If you are looking for something a bit more challenging, you may want to try the GorhamTH Loop via Park Loop Road, which is approximately 7 miles long.
Visit the Beach
By staying at Blackwoods Campground, you are only a five to 10-minute walk from the beach. You can go for a nice walk on the beach or enjoy a picnic on the coast. The water might be a bit cold to swim in, even in the middle of the summer, but it could be refreshing for a few minutes.
Canoeing & Kayaking
You can take a canoe or kayak onto Otter Cove. You might be able to catch a few fish that you can cook for dinner too. Keep in mind that there are strict water regulations. Depending on where you are located, you might not be able to go swimming, and there are restrictions placed on motorboats.
More Things To Do Near Blackwoods Campground
Staying at Blackwoods Campground will place you close to the heart of the action in Acadia National Park. It will also give you a wealth of opportunities to experience other fun things to do. Consider checking out these attractions during your stay.
Cadillac Mountain
Cadillac Mountain is one of the tallest mountains on the eastern seaboard, and it is approximately 1,530 feet tall. While you can get to the area in your own vehicle, you need to be very careful because there are steep cliffs nearby.
Jordan Pond
If you are looking for some gorgeous views, you should consider checking out Jordan Pond. One of the prime attractions of the pond itself is The Bubbles, which are two mountains located at the northern end of the pond.
Otter Cliff
Otter Cliff is another of the top sights in Acadia National Park. It is located on the east side of Park Loop Road and treats you to some amazing views. The cliff itself is named after animals that used to hunt in the cold waters nearby.
Dining Near Blackwoods Campground
Of course, you are always welcome to cook your own food at your campsite. But, there are a few restaurants in Bar Harbor that you may want to check out.
Jordan Pond House
Jordan Pond House is the only true dining option within Acadia National Park. It serves tea, popovers, and other delicious snacks.
Rosalie’s Pizza
In nearby Bar Harbor, you may want to check out Rosalie’s Pizza if you are looking for some fresh, delicious, and creative pizza. The Crowe family has served its made-from-scratch pies since 1981.
Rose Eden Lobster
It wouldn’t be a visit to Maine without trying some fresh lobster, so consider checking out Rose Eden Lobster for a lobster lunch or dinner to go. You can grab clams, crab, mussels, and live lobster too.
Additional Lodging Near Blackwoods Campground
If you only want to go camping for a couple of nights but want to experience more of Acadia National Park, other lodging options are available. Consider some of these places.
- Harbor View Motel & Cottages is an affordable option that offers basic rooms with a private beach.
- Acadia Hotel is situated in a building that has been standing since 1884. The interior has been modernized, and you get access to a handful of amenities. It even comes with free parking.
- The Seaside Cottages are located on the coast and provide gorgeous views and a private beach.
FAQs About Blackwoods Campground
Am I allowed to bring my dog with me to Blackwoods Campground?
Yes, you can bring your dog to Blackwoods Campground, but your dog will have to stay on a leash at all times.
Does Blackwoods Campground have sites for RVs and Trailers?
Yes, there are locations and hookups available for your RV and trailer at Blackwoods Campground.
Can I make a reservation for Blackwoods Campground on the same night I want to show up?
No, you cannot make a reservation at Blackwoods Campground on the same day.
Are any sites available for the dates that I want to visit Blackwoods Campground?
If you would like to see what is available at Blackwoods Campground, you can take a look at the booking page to make your reservation in advance.
What happens if I end up arriving at Blackwoods Campground late on the day of my reservation?
If you plan on arriving at Blackwoods Campground late, your name and campsite number will still be available at the Ranger Station. You will have to check in at the station the morning after your arrival date.
If you cannot make it, you will need to call (207) 288-3274. If you are unable to call, you might be marked as a “no-show” and could be charged a supplementary fee.
Check Out Blackwoods Campground at Acadia National Park
If you are visiting Acadia National Park, you will definitely want to explore Blackwoods Campground. It is one of the most popular campgrounds in the park because it provides easy access to an array of activities. But, don’t forget to explore everything else that the park has to offer.