Duck Harbor Campground

We were lucky enough to get a spot at site 5 (highly recommend, definitely the best because it's the most private and has an awesome view and easy access to the shoreline). It was me, my husband and our 5 and 6 year old kids. This was our first time camping as a family and it was great.

The lean-to fit our 4 person tent perfectly, with a foot and a half on either side. Some kind soul left us a cord of firewood, so we were well-equipped on that front. But even without that, I think the ranger provides firewood or you can gather up any wood lying about. We did bring a Duralog or whatever they are called to make starting the fire easier, which I recommend. There is a barbecue pit for each site, and a picnic table. I mean, how great!? There is a really clean composting toilet for all 5 campsites to share, which was well-equipped with toilet paper. This was "real camping" made easy. The potable water pump is about a 5-7 minute walk from camp, but the kids loved pumping the water, so it was part of the experience. We brought a 2 liter pouch and in the future, I"d probably bring an even bigger "bladder."

Gorgeous spot overall. Other reviews complained about the bugs. Bugs were around, but we didn't get bitten by a single mosquito. So, although they are there, maybe we got lucky, but it was fine. Perhaps our fire helped. Perhaps the fact that it was mid-June helped.

Overall, highly recommend. We just did 1 night but might do 2 in the future. The hikes we did were lovely and kid friendly--we did Eben's Head and Deer Mountain Harbor. Both short, but with great views. If we had stayed a bit longer, would have done Western/Cliff. Bring a swimsuit so you can jump in the harbor from the dock. We didn't, but we saw some guys do this with permission from the ranger. Seems like a nice way to refresh oneself!

We had a fabulous time in the most beautiful place. We felt so lucky to be able to stay at Duck Harbor and enjoy the trails. The shelters are quite a luxury and the composting toilets, quite impressively, do not smell at all. Lovely place and well cared for. The rangers were friendly and helpful.

Stayed here before the ferry goes to the campground and it was a beautiful place of solitude with your friends.

Off the grid saltwater island camping, stunning trails, unreal night sky, fun fishing, cold water swimming, no bears, and great NPS Rangers. A unique piece of Acadia National Park off the beaten path. Duck Harbor Mountain Trail will test you. A spectacular place to recover in solitude after a Mt. Katahdin summit if you can get a reservation!

This place is beautiful and fairly secluded. Dave, Dave and Allison are super cool rangers and excellent caretakers/hosts. It's not for everyone, but if it's for you Duck Harbor is the place to be.

Great

Tons and tons of mosquitoes and primitive site. But we loved it. Not for the feint of heart....only true Mainers need apply.

Beautiful well-kept campground with clean composting toilets, well-maintained shelters, and a reliable water pump. The ranger who met us at the dock upon arrival was super welcoming, helpful, and showed us to our campsite while telling us about the edible wild berries we passed! The mailboat ride to the campground is stunning and one of the best parts of the experience. We were grateful for the added shelter over our tent since there was some off-and-on mist during our stay. Also, the mosquitos are vicious so plan accordingly if coming mid August!

Loved this experience. Going back next year. Amazing to be able to go to sleep watching the sun set over the Atlantic and then wake with the birds. We didn't set up our tent, and I won't bring it next time (we sprayed the lean-to bottom with bug spray, and would recommend that, plus a citron candle). Pick the wild blueberries/raspberries for the oatmeal or pancakes in the morning. Make sure you pay attention when the rangers tell you where the water and firewood is. Lots of trails to hike. Book early!

Wonderful stay at Duck Harbor. Site layout is as pics show. Rangers very helpful and accommodating !