Pros & cons
PROS
- Wooded sites a short walk from the rocky ocean shore
- Free Island Explorer bus stops at the campground
CONS
- No on-site showers; pay showers are about a mile away
- Farther from Bar Harbor and the park’s busiest attractions
Overview
Seawall Campground sits on the park’s quiet southwest side, tucked into spruce and fir forest and about a 10‑minute walk from the Atlantic. It’s the antidote to the busier east side—more purist camping, less glamping.
Setting & vibe
Across Seawall Road is the namesake natural seawall: a long, rocky shoreline shaped by glaciers and surf. Expect the sound of waves, sea air, and shady, wooded loops. It’s peaceful here, especially compared to the Bar Harbor scene.
Campsites & amenities
Loops A–D and group areas offer tent, RV, and some walk‑in sites. You get the essentials: flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings. There’s an RV dump station, but no hookups and no showers on site—private showers are available about a mile away. Generator use is largely restricted, with use allowed in Loop C during posted hours. One vehicle per site (more for group sites); overflow parking is available.
What’s nearby
From your campsite, it’s an easy stroll to tidepools and wave‑washed rocks along the Seawall. The Seawall Picnic Area sits on the shoreline, and quiet coastal trails—Wonderland and Ship Harbor—are close by. Echo Lake is a popular option on this side for swimming and paddling. The fare‑free Island Explorer bus stops at the campground, making car‑free exploring simple.
Wildlife
Along the shore, look for tidepool regulars like starfish and hermit crabs, plus seabirds and the occasional seal. In the woods, expect deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and songbirds. In summer, mosquitoes and black flies can make appearances—pack repellent.
Planning basics
Reservations are strongly recommended in peak season; late July and August are the busiest. The campground operates seasonally (late spring through mid‑fall). Cell service is limited to none, and there’s no Wi‑Fi—plan to be self‑sufficient.
Best time to visit
If you want calmer vibes and better odds on reservations, avoid late July–August. Morning or evening is a great time to wander the Seawall and tidepools, and midweek stays tend to feel quieter.
Where it is
44.2407, -68.3003Tips for Seawall Campground
- 01Reserve early—sites fill fast, especially in late July and August.
- 02No showers on site; bring cash or quarters for private showers a mile away.
- 03Use the free Island Explorer bus from the campground to reach nearby spots.
- 04If you rely on a generator, book Loop C and note the time restrictions.
- 05Pack strong insect repellent—mosquitoes and black flies show up in summer.
Amenities
Near Seawall Campground
All places →All trails →
0.2 mi awaySeawall Picnic AreaOceanfront picnic spot with rocky shore and easy birdwatchingParking · Restroom
0.9 mi awaySeawallRocky tidepools and ocean views on the quiet sideParking · Picnic Table
1.1 mi awayWonderland TrailFlat forest walk to granite coast and kid magnet tide poolsEasy · 1.4 mi · 1.2 hr
1.1 mi awayWonderlandEasy coastal walk to granite shores and tide poolsTrailhead · Parking
1.4 mi awayShip Harbor Trail OverlookEasy coastal loop to rocky tidepools and big Atlantic viewsTrailhead · Parking
1.4 mi awayShip Harbor Nature TrailShort, quiet coastal loop with tidepools and big ocean viewsEasy · 1.3 mi · 45 min
1.4 mi awayLower Harbor TrailQuiet Schoodic shoreline stroll with harbor views and few crowdsEasy · 2.6 mi · 1.2 hr
2.2 mi awayBass Harbor Head Light TrailIconic lighthouse views via a tiny walk and a short stair descentEasy · 0.4 mi · 12 min
