Camping at Blackwoods Campground
Overview of Blackwoods Campground
Blackwoods Campground is a popular camping destination within Acadia National Park, located on Mount Desert Island, Maine. It provides an immersive experience in one of the most picturesque national parks in the United States, offering a chance to enjoy the beauty of the dense forests, rocky beaches, and granite peaks of Acadia.
Location and Accessibility
Blackwoods Campground is situated off Route 3, approximately five miles south of Bar Harbor, Maine. It provides easy access to the park's attractions, including Cadillac Mountain, the Park Loop Road, and various hiking trails.
Campsite Information
The campground operates year-round with peak season from late May until early October, when all facilities and services are fully operational. During the off-season, fewer amenities are available, and a reduced number of campsites can be accessed.
- Reservations: During peak season, reservations are highly recommended due to the campground's popularity. They can be made up to 60 days in advance through Recreation.gov or by calling their reservation line.
- Campsites: Blackwoods offers over 300 tent and RV campsites. The sites are rustic, generally not offering hookups for electricity, water, or sewage. However, they do provide a level pad, fire ring, and picnic table.
- Tent-Only Camping: There are designated areas within the campground for tent-only camping, which allows for a more secluded and quiet experience.
Amenities and Facilities
During the peak season, Blackwoods Campground offers numerous amenities, including:
- Restrooms: Flush toilets and running water are available.
- Potable Water: Several locations provide drinking water.
- Dump Station: For RVs, there's an accessible station (no RV hookups are available at the campsites).
- Camp Store: A nearby store offers basic camping supplies and food items.
- Shuttle Service: The free Island Explorer shuttle bus stops at Blackwoods, allowing easy access to various park destinations without a car.
Activities in the Area
- Hiking: There are numerous trails accessible from Blackwoods, catering to all ability levels.
- Biking: The historic carriage roads offer scenic biking free of motor vehicles.
- Sightseeing: The Park Loop Road and Cadillac Mountain are popular destinations for breathtaking views.
- Stargazing: Acadia National Park is known for its dark skies, making it an excellent location for stargazing.
Important Rules and Regulations
- Pets: Pets are allowed but must be leashed and may not be left unattended. There are certain places in the park where pets are not permitted.
- Fires: Wood and charcoal fires are permitted only in designated rings or grills. Firewood can be purchased at the campground to prevent the spread of invasive insects.
- Quiet Hours: To ensure a peaceful environment, quiet hours are typically enforced from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
- Food Storage: Proper food storage is necessary to protect wildlife and campers from bear and other wildlife encounters.
Seasonal Considerations
Weather in Acadia can be unpredictable, with even summer nights getting chilly. Campers should be prepared for a range of temperatures and bring appropriate rain gear and extra layers. During off-peak seasons, the weather can be even more variable, and some facilities may be closed.
Reservation and Contact Information
For reservations, visit Recreation.gov or call the reservation line. For more information, the National Park Service provides resources and updates on their website, or you can contact the Acadia National Park visitor center directly for current conditions and advice.
