Dispersed camping sites near Andover, Maine provide seclusion within the White Mountain National Forest area, where most sites sit at elevations between 1,000-1,500 feet. The region experiences average summer temperatures of 65-80°F during peak camping season (June-September), with overnight lows often dropping into the 40s even in summer. Fall brings dramatic temperature drops and seasonal color changes that attract campers seeking autumn wilderness experiences.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Umbagog Lake offers excellent fishing for smallmouth bass, brook trout, and landlocked salmon. At Remote Sites — Umbagog Lake State Park, one camper noted, "The fishing is excellent! There is plenty of wildlife including loons, ospreys, eagles and other birds. Moose and Bear maybe spotted."
Paddling the Magalloway River: The river provides multi-day paddling routes with riverside camping. At Diamond Peaks, "It is a beautiful spot... I did enjoy catching a few fish off the dock in between swatting at the mosquitos."
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Several trails near Andover connect to the AT. Near Hogan Road Pulloff, a camper shared, "About 1km (.6 miles) of gravel road, easy enough for a big road bike, but don't go any further as it gets rough. Plenty of trees to hang your hammock."
Wildlife watching: The area supports moose, black bears, and bald eagles. One camper at Umbagog Lake mentioned, "You can kayak with Bald Eagles soaring over your head, swim in a crystal clear lake and enjoy a near wilderness camping experience."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road, campers appreciate the spacing between sites. One reviewer commented, "8 huge, beautiful campsites in the heavily wooded Evans Notch section of The White Mountains National Forest. It's easy to forget there are other people camping on other sites because they're so far apart."
Tent platforms: Several remote sites provide raised tent platforms that keep gear dry. At Umbagog Lake State Park, a camper noted, "Stayed at site R18-gorgeous views, clean site with tent platform. Primitive port a potty set up."
Water access: Many of the best tent camping sites near Andover, Maine feature direct water access. A camper at Smudge Cove shared, "There is a nice long dock that makes it super easy to boat into and unload... There is also relatively easy access to the water by way of the rocks, beside the dock."
Natural quiet: The remote locations provide peaceful camping experiences. One camper at Smudge Cove mentioned, "These sites are secluded and offer a lovely amount of privacy and rest assured, the only sounds you will hear at night are the loons!"
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most sites lack facilities. At Little Larry Road, a camper advised, "There is a fire pit but no other amenities. The site at the very top of the road is huge and has a nice stream but if you are camping at any of the other sites, you don't have water flowing by."
Access challenges: Many sites require boat or hiking access. At Cupsuptic Lake Park & Campground, a camper noted, "Went on a four day wilderness trip. Very nice being several miles out on logging roads away from any towns or noise."
Cell coverage is spotty: Coverage varies by location. One camper at Little Larry Road mentioned, "Site 4 and 5 get some cell service. Upper two top sites beware of bears especially the right side site."
Weather preparedness: Weather changes quickly in this region. A camper at Umbagog Lake cautioned, "Weather can change quickly out there. Gets windy. So be prepared."
Bug protection: Insects are prevalent, especially in summer. A reviewer at Umbagog noted, "Bring the bug spray mosquitoes are fierce!"
Tips for camping with families
Boat-accessible sites: Consider island camping for families with dogs. At Stephen Phillips Memorial Preserve Wilderness, a camper recommended, "We've always brought our dogs and rented canoes for long weekends. We've loved both, but prefer the island simply because we know our dogs can't go far!"
Pack everything needed: No stores nearby most wilderness sites. At Umbagog Lake, a camper warned, "The worst part is that you will have to figure out how to get firewood there. Which is tough when you are in a kayak, canoe or other small paddle craft."
Water safety equipment: Life jackets for all family members. A camper at Northern Waters Base Camp shared, "We had a large group and a site right on the river. Sites are small but you can fit comfortably. Staff was extremely friendly and helpful."
Weather contingencies: Plan for rain and temperature swings. At Cupsuptic Campground, a camper mentioned, "There's also a very nice pavilion if it's rainy."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most primitive sites near Andover are tent-only. For RVs, established campgrounds offer more amenities. One camper at Cupsuptic Lake noted, "Tented here 30 years ago and in a motor home this year. It's a nice place on the lake."
Road conditions: Many access roads are unpaved and rough. At Hogan Road Pulloff, a camper cautioned, "About 1km (.6 miles) of gravel road, easy enough for a big road bike, but don't go any further as it gets rough."
Larger RVs: Stick to established campgrounds. At Cupsuptic Lake, a camper mentioned, "Nice campground. Super friendly people. Very busy campground, but everyone is very respectful."
