North of Portland and west of Augusta, Andover sits in a highland region where the Appalachian Trail crosses through western Maine. The area's elevation ranges from 700 to over 4,000 feet in nearby mountains, creating microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Most campgrounds near Andover remain open from mid-May through mid-October, with limited winter access for experienced campers.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Lake Francis State Park Campground offers excellent access for kayakers with waterfront sites directly on the lake. One visitor noted, "We came in on a Friday afternoon without a reservation. Luckily there were a few sites left including a couple on lake front. The view in the morning out of the back of our van was quite satisfying." The campground provides boat rentals in season when staffing allows.
Wildlife viewing: Mollidgewock State Park Campground is known for exceptional moose viewing opportunities. A camper described, "Mollidgewock State Park, overlooking the Androscoggin River, is embedded in the beautiful and tranquil scenery that makes up what I would call, the moose capital of NH. My visit proved incredible as I got to experience my very first moose sighting!" Early morning and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing times.
ATV trails: For those seeking more adventure, numerous ATV trails connect through the region. A visitor to Lake Francis State Park Campground mentioned, "If you are into ATV'ing, this is a great area for that as there is a large trail network and there is a large outfitter - Bear Rock Adventures- which rents ATVs less than 4 miles from the campground. Some of the camp sites are accessible by ATVs."
What campers like
Primitive lakeside camping: Mollidgewock State Park Campground offers a simpler camping experience without modern amenities. As one visitor explains, "I spent three days camped by the river with my little 12 ft pack boat. Caught about a dozen small rainbows anchored at the head of the rapids. No showers or flush toilets which is how I like it." Sites along the river provide direct water access.
Clean facilities: Honey Run Campground receives praise for its well-maintained grounds. A recent visitor mentioned, "Perfect stay if you have kiddos and dogs! There's a playground, arcade, and beach. They offer kayak and canoe rentals. We grabbed a tent site for 3 days and it had water and electric!" Most sites include a picnic table and fire ring as standard amenities.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Andover, Maine, Milan Hill State Park Campground provides canvas structures on platforms with basic amenities. One camper shared, "We did the yurt for 2 nights. Man was it amazing. The north country and wandering back roads to find cool waterfalls and lakes. Everyone at the campground was super nice, from John the park manager to other campers."
What you should know
Limited supplies: Many campgrounds in the region have minimal on-site provisions. At Aziscoos Valley Camping Area, one visitor advised, "Make sure you are well provisioned before arriving, there are no supplies nearby." Most campers should stock up in larger towns before arrival.
Weather conditions: The mountainous terrain creates rapid weather changes year-round. Temperatures can drop significantly at night even in summer. Plan accordingly with appropriate gear.
Reservation requirements: Peak summer weekends fill quickly at most campgrounds. At Cathedral Pines Campground, a camper mentioned, "Reservations are low-tech…although you can inquire about availability via email, give them a call to make the reservation (or send a letter) because deposit is required at time of reservation." Book at least 2-3 weeks ahead for summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Papoose Pond Family Campground specializes in family-friendly amenities. A regular visitor explained, "We have tent camped here for a week (if not twice) every summer for the last 5 years. Pond with rentals, pool, mini golf, daily activities, crafts....so family friendly." The campground organizes daily activities during peak season.
Private sites: When camping with children, look for more secluded sites. One parent recommended, "The sites further down were more private and further from the driveway. This wasn't a huge deal, but the sites further down were more private and further from the driveway." Sites numbered higher tend to have more separation from neighbors.
Bathroom proximity: With young children, select sites close to facilities. One family noted the challenge of distant bathrooms: "I would never be able to get my kids to the bathroom in time all the way over there." Check campground maps before booking to ensure suitable locations.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Moose Brook State Park Campground offers various electrical hookup options. A visitor noted, "The sites are large, with a choice of wooded, partially wooded, or open. Sites are level, with the fire ring on the correct side for people with campers." Most RV sites require advance reservations.
Site privacy: At Aziscoos Valley Camping Area, RVers can choose between shaded riverside spots or open field locations. According to one camper, "Though the site was open, the camp sites are spaced far enough apart that we still felt that we were camping privately." The campground has both hookup and non-hookup options for different preferences.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds close by mid-October. One RVer advised, "I was here in October just before the final camping weekend of the season so traffic was perhaps less than normal." Fall offers less crowded conditions but potentially colder nights requiring proper heating systems.
