Situated just off the Wild River in the White Mountain National Forest, Hastings Campground runs a small loop through forested terrain with sites that reviewers consistently describe as large, flat, and well-spaced. Wooded sections between sites provide a degree of privacy that stands out for an established Forest Service campground. Multiple campers note the grounds are kept clean and the pit toilets are well-maintained. The campground fills on summer weekends, but even at capacity, noise levels tend to stay low.
Each site includes a fire ring with grate, a picnic table, and clear tent pads. Firewood is available on-site. Drinking water is accessible, though as Sarah C. notes, "there is a water spigot a short walk from most campsites." RVs up to 35 feet can be accommodated, and Class C campers report the site dimensions work well. Pack bug spray, particularly for mosquitoes and horse flies during warmer months. The campground sits within campgrounds around White Mountain National Forest, making it a practical base for day hikes into Evans Notch.
The season runs May through October, with reservations available. Fall tends to bring lighter crowds than midsummer. A camp host is on-site, which reviewers mention contributes to the well-kept conditions. Fishing access near the Wild River gives anglers a reason to linger. Campers wanting a dispersed alternative nearby can look at Bull Brook Road: Dispersed Campsite, roughly two miles south.
Description
Overview
Hastings Campground is located on Route 113 near the shore of Evans Brook in western Maine. It is situated in a rustic and remote part of White Mountain National Forest, not far from the towns of Gilead Me and Gorham, New Hampshire. Activities include fishing, hiking and mountain biking. The White Mountains boast pristine forests, clear mountain streams and rivers and the tallest peaks in the Northeast. The forest encompasses nearly 800,000 acres in New Hampshire and western Maine, and is one of the most popular in the country.
Recreation
Within a short drive, campers can access numerous hiking trails of various levels, including a short, 2-mile trail that is great for families, as well as a more rigorous 9-mile trail on Mt. Hastings. Fishing is available in nearby streams and rivers, and the famous Appalachian Trail is about a half-hour drive from the campground. The area also hosts four alpine and five Nordic ski areas, which provide year-round recreation opportunities such as skiing, hiking, mountain biking, outdoor concerts, interpretive trails, special events and regional and national skiing and snowboarding races. Learn more about recreation in the national forest.
Facilities
Campsites are shaded and well-separated around a single loop. Accessible restrooms and a hand pump for water are provided within the facility. The campground also has a large, open play area for kids.
Natural Features
The campground sits in a mixed hardwood forest at the base of Mt. Hastings and a short distance from Evans Brook and the Wild River. The forest is home to many species of northern wildlife, including moose, white-tailed deer and black bear. Almost 200 species of birds, including the rare Bicknell's Thrush, live in the White Mountains.
Nearby Attractions
Campers enjoy a scenic day trip to the Presidential Range, which consists of the tallest mountains in the forest, including the 6,288-foot Mount Washington, the highest peak north of the Smoky Mountains and east of the Mississippi River.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (802) 289-0970.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsHastings Campground is located in Maine near Gilead
Directions
From Gilead, Maine, take Highway 113 south for 3 miles to campground.
Address
WHITE MOUNTAIN
ME
Coordinates
44.3519444 N
70.9841667 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 1 hr 23 min from Lewiston, ME
- 1 hr 56 min from Portland, ME
- 2 hrs 18 min from Manchester, NH
- 2 hrs 45 min from Burlington, VT
