Campgrounds near Andover, Maine range from primitive riverfront spots to family-friendly parks with full facilities. Andover sits at approximately 650 feet above sea level in the Mahoosuc Range, with temperatures often dropping below freezing at night even in summer months. The surrounding White Mountain National Forest offers camping opportunities in valleys, along rivers, and beneath dense tree canopies that provide natural shelter from rain showers common in this region.
What to Do
Paddle the rivers and lakes: Coos Canyon Campground and Cabins offers direct access to gold panning opportunities. "Rent a pan or sluice from the coos canyon rock and gem shop a 3 min walk from the office and pan for gold in the river right from the campground!" says David B. The Swift River provides excellent conditions for recreational prospecting.
Hike nearby mountains: Within short driving distance from most Andover campgrounds are several notable trails. "Angel Falls was amazing, Coos Canyon is awesome, and the local views are stunning," notes lacey, who stayed at Coos Canyon Campground. Mount Blue State Park, located about 24 miles southeast of Andover, connects to numerous trails of varying difficulty levels.
ATV trail riding: Several campgrounds provide direct access to ATV trails. "Great place to stay with ATV trails access right from your campsite," writes Andrew G. about Coos Canyon. The interconnected trail system allows for multi-day exploration, with many loops returning directly to campgrounds.
Stargazing: The mountains around Andover create excellent dark sky viewing conditions. "We got chased out by rain a day early. Fast forward to 2024 with reservations for the same site for a week in mid July taking advantage of free day offer for 7 night stay. Bring my 8" HD celestron this time," writes Jeffrey S. about Lone Mountain River Front Campground.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain exceptional cleanliness standards. At Grafton Notch Campground, "The bathhouse is clean and has a large shower with plenty of places to put your soap, shampoo, etc. There are also lots of hooks in the shower and bathroom for your stuff and the shower has a large bench to sit on as you get dressed," reports Cheryl K.
River access: Direct water access ranks high among camper preferences. "We stayed late July for 3 nights during the week. Our site was right next to the river and was fantastic. Ellis pond and Webb lake were close and great to take to canoe out," notes Matthew H. about his stay at Coos Canyon.
Private sites: Campgrounds offering separation between sites receive higher ratings. At Mollidgewock State Park Campground, "in terms of my favorite Mollidgewock campsites, for those that crave solitude, sites 19 and 7a were where it's at-19 offers the most privacy, while still bordering the river bank," advises Rachel P.
Seasonal beauty: The area's changing seasons attract repeat visitors. "Sunday what a quiet day. Relaxing no one around unless at the opposite end of the campground. Listening to the crow in the back of me in the woods," shares Angie B. about her fall experience at Mollidgewock State Park.
What You Should Know
Seasonal weather changes: Mountain weather patterns can shift quickly. "Weather in the mountain region can be changeable, so checking forecasts before camping with pets is advisable, especially during spring and fall when temperatures can fluctuate significantly."
Limited services: Andover itself has minimal retail options. Mills General Store provides essentials, but stock up before arrival if you need specialty items.
Campground owner knowledge: Small, privately-run campgrounds often provide exceptional local expertise. At Grafton Notch Campground, "Owner Mo is a friendly host with tons of local knowledge on hikes, waterfalls, etc. Lovingly cared for, super clean, hot showers, well stocked little store. What else could you ask for?!" exclaims Fred M.
Cell coverage varies: Many campgrounds have limited or no cell service. "No cell service but wifi was available at the office," notes J.B. about Coos Canyon. Some campgrounds offer limited WiFi near main buildings only.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with organized activities. "Fun little scavenger hunt for kids of all ages," writes Camie S. about Coos Canyon Campground and Cabins, which offers a popular treasure hunt activity.
Beach access considerations: For families with small children, seek out campgrounds with gradual water entry. At Mount Blue State Park Campground, "I camped here two nights with my family. It was the first camping trip we took with my 2 year old, and so was very nervous about how it would go. I was very relieved to be surrounded by families with small children," shares Sandie N.
Playground availability: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "Kids had fun at playground and playing games," mentions Jason about Stony Brook Recreation and Campground.
Dog-friendly policies: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Andover require leashed pets. Specific sites may offer better accommodations for pets, particularly those with space between neighboring sites.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for RVs: While many campgrounds accommodate RVs, not all sites are equally suitable. "Sites are very close together, but they're very long," notes Ashley I. about Stony Brook Recreation and Campground.
Hookup locations: Position and elevation of hookups can affect the camping experience. "Our sewer was uphill at our site which is a big pet peeve of ours and super annoying when it comes to empty the tanks," warns Nancy W. about Bethel Outdoor Adventure and Campground.
Winter accessibility: Some campgrounds remain open year-round for RVs. "I am currently living all year round at Stony Brook Campgrounds. Showers clean, bathrooms clean. Very nice pool. Basketball and volleyball. RV pull thru sites and tents and cabins as well," shares Jonathan M.
Road considerations: Access roads may present challenges for larger rigs. "Not all sites are level and we found it difficult to get into because of the tight roads and dangling tree limbs," cautions Nancy W. about traveling with a 45-foot RV at Bethel Outdoor Adventure.
Traveler
