Tent campsites near Alton, Maine offer primitive camping experiences in a region dominated by forests and lakes. Sites are scattered across multiple public reserved lands and multi-use forests, with many accessible via gravel roads and dirt paths. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F, while black flies and mosquitoes are most prevalent from late May through July.
What to do
Hiking near campsites: The Wilson Streams Area provides direct access to the Little Wilson Falls trail, a 2.4-mile round trip that follows water with several swimming holes and crosses the Appalachian Trail. According to Nancy W., "The trail follows water with a few nice swimming holes and crosses the AT... Approximately 15 miles north is the town of Greenville which is a beautiful town with great hiking and pretty lake views."
Paddling opportunities: Johnston Pond in KIJO Mary Forest offers both camping and paddling on a clear pond with wildlife viewing. Jean C. notes, "I enjoyed paddling my kayak in the pond. Continue past the campsite area and you'll see a turnoff at the far end of the pond that takes you to the sandy beach/boat launch area. There were loons on the clear pond and also native trout."
Swimming spots: Multiple camping areas provide water access for swimming during summer months. At Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss (formerly Salt Pond Perfection), one camper mentioned, "We absolutely loved this site, it was nothing we had ever experienced before. The views were incredible, we swam in the water everyday, and picked/ate the blueberries!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many primitive camping areas near Alton offer secluded sites with good separation. At Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land, Erik C. explains, "The spots are secluded enough but not isolated. People in the other campsites were very friendly and respectful. Had dinner on the beach as the sun set behind the lake."
Lake and mountain views: Several camping areas provide scenic vantage points. Amanda F. shares about Donnell Pond: "This place is so breathtaking with the views! We boated to the boat with our gear and camped there. This lake is huge so keep that in mind... It was gorgeous with the Mountain View's."
Unique camping environments: The region offers diverse settings beyond standard wooded sites. One camper at Rough and Raw described it as "A true hidden gem. We had no idea there was a clothing optional site near Acadia and stumbled across this with hipcamp. A safe and lovely primitive site."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most primitive camping areas have minimal or no cellular coverage. Jean C. notes about the KIJO Mary Forest area: "Consider also downloading maps for offline use as there is no cell coverage in most of the park. You could sometimes get texts through from the nearby Little Jo Mary campsite area."
Fire permit requirements: Many areas require campers to obtain permits before having campfires. As Nancy W. explains about Wilson Streams Area: "You must obtain a fire permit before kindling a fire. The information board has a number you can call to get a permit from the forest service."
Water sources: Most primitive sites lack potable water. For Johnston Pond campsites, Jean C. advises, "A latrine provides toilet facilities, but bring your own water or plan to treat water. You may collect dead wood or purchase wood at the checkpoint for fire."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Several camping locations offer family-friendly water access. Amanda F. describes Donnell Pond: "There are two beaches that you can camp on that have sites with fire rings and picnic tables. A lot of people at both beaches. We found a spot and it was gorgeous with the Mountain View's. We were able to swim here as well."
Campsite selection strategy: When camping with children, site location matters. Nancy W. notes about Wilson Streams Area: "Sites 1, 2, 3, and 6 are right along the stream with access to the water and nice tall trees for shade. Sites 1 and 2 are pretty close together so there is shared space."
Local supplies and amenities: Knowing where to stock up is essential for family trips. According to Nancy W., "About five miles away is the small town of Monson which has an Appalachian Trail Visitor Center, some galleries, restaurants, and a great general store where you can get lots of grocery items and sandwiches to go."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: The forestry roads in many areas restrict larger vehicles. Jean C. cautions about KIJO Mary forest: "Be aware of general regulations for the KJM forest, including the need to yield to trucks (which are often moving at quite a clip and loaded with logs) and length limits (28' single vehicle, 44' combined)."
Campsite access for smaller RVs: Some locations can accommodate compact RVs despite being primarily tent-oriented. Heather C. shares about Maine Wild Blueberry Bliss: "We stayed in campsite 2, where the land is open and flat, and there was plenty of room for our rv. It is dry camping, with no hookups, and generators are not allowed."
Booking considerations: Many primitive sites operate on a first-come basis with limited availability. Casey notes about Donnell Pond, "The one site that is easily accessible is a half mile hike with 9 campsites and if your lucky you won't have the experience I did with a group of ten partying all night next to me."
