Camping with kids can be a fun and exciting adventure. Acadia National Park, located in Maine and approximately six hours north of Boston, has multiple campground and activity options that will entertain and engage children of all ages.
Acadia National Park Campgrounds
Acadia has two major campgrounds that are open to visitors primarily from early summer through the beginning of fall. Both campgrounds are in wooded areas and in close proximity to the ocean. Parents planning a trip to the park should call ahead for camp site reservations and to inquire about specific park rules/regulations.
- Blackwoods Campground: With 306 sites, this campground features group camping areas, picnic tables, evening campfire programs, and restroom facilities. Sites are restricted to two tents and one vehicle, with a maximum of six family members. In season camping extends from May 31 to October 31 annually. Reservations are encouraged.
- Seawall Campground: Seawall contains 214 camp sites, only half of which as are able to be reserved. Amenities include picnic tables, cold running water, and group camp sites.
Reservations for either campground must be made through the National Recreation Reservation Service (NRRS) at 877-444-6777 or online at the NRRS website.
Kids Activities at Acadia Park
Acadia offers families an abundance of activities to choose from. These range from more structured group activities and programs to more free spirited outdoor adventures such as biking, hiking, or bird watching.
Young nature lovers may enjoy the Junior Ranger Program. This kid friendly look at Acadia operates from mid-May through mid-October, and includes crafts, scavenger hunts, and other educational park activities. Upon completion of the program, children will receive a certificate and special embroidered patch.
For families looking to spend some time together learning about the park, Acadia offers ranger led program for children and adults. These informative park activities include walks, hikes, and a ranger narrated boat cruise.
Maine Beaches
Acadia national park is home to two of Maine’s beaches, Sand Beach and Echo Lake Beach. Swimmers may prefer the waters of Echo Lake Beach, as Sand Beach water temperature generally stays at 55 degrees or below.
Kids who are interested in investigating the life and science of the ocean will enjoy tidepooling. Tidepools form where the ocean meets the land, and are filled with creatures such as mussels, sea stars, anemones, and more! Try the gravel bar that runs from Bar Island to Mount Desert Island for a low tide exploration.
Acadia Park warns visitors to use proper safety precautions when tidepooling. These include keeping an eye out on the ocean for waves, being mindful of wet walking surfaces, and not touching or disturbing the sea creatures. Additionally, visitors should avoid wading in the tidepools.
Acadia National Park in Maine is one of America’s natural treasures. This northeastern area boasts wooded lands, beaches, and ocean, and more. Families with children can camp, bike, hike, or sign up for a special kid friendly park program while vacationing at this scenic New England gem.
Source:
National Park Service. Acadia National Park (retrieved electronically April 5, 2010).
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Erica Loop - I am a mother and a professional Arts Educator, teaching visual arts programs to children ages three and up in both museum and school ...
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