Pet friendly campgrounds near Bangor, Maine typically have standard requirements for vaccination records, leash policies, and waste cleanup. Many campgrounds in Penobscot County feature direct water access with wading areas where pets can cool off during summer months when temperatures average 70-80°F. Most facilities provide waste stations strategically positioned throughout the grounds to maintain cleanliness.
What to do
Explore nearby trails: Branch Lake Camping area offers access to a lake with 26.5 miles of shoreline perimeter and a maximum depth of 124 feet. "We had loons come in close to our site. Saw an Eagle too," shares one visitor at Branch Lake Camping area.
Visit downtown Bangor: Located approximately 15 minutes from Pumpkin Patch RV Resort, downtown Bangor offers dining and entertainment options. "You are about fifteen minutes to downtown Bangor which has some good restaurants, a casino, and a large outdoor concert venue which has big name musical acts throughout the summer," notes a camper.
Take day trips to Acadia: Many campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring Acadia National Park. "Very friendly staff, very open to our changing plans. Nice peaceful lake view and access. Location was a good 45 min drive from Acadia National Park, longer than we anticipated," reports a visitor to Branch Lake Camping area.
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: Campers frequently mention site quality as a key factor. "There is pretty good space between sites so you don't feel cramped or right on top of your neighbor. Most sites are level and there are long pull thrus so you don't have to unhitch if you are only staying one night," notes a reviewer at Pumpkin Patch RV Resort.
Clean facilities: Paul Bunyan Campground maintains well-kept amenities. "Clean and friendly staff. Easy sites to get into. Close to the cross center and the waterfront concerts. Quite," reports one visitor. Another camper shares, "That camping could be so easy and fun! This is my first time actually camping in a tent for fun. The showers are nice and hot, it's quiet here at night."
Lake activities: Water recreation opportunities enhance many camping experiences. At Pushaw Lake Campground, one visitor notes, "While not very private because we were right next to an RV, it was still quite a lakefront spot. The site included a picnic table, a fire ring and a charcoal grill."
What you should know
Seasonal differences: Most campgrounds operate from May through mid-October. Cold River Campground runs from May 1 to October 31, while others like Pumpkin Patch RV Resort typically open May 1 and close October 15.
Varying amenities: Facilities range from basic to full-service. "This campground caters more to adults and does not have too much for kids to do. Most of the campers were seasonals whose campsites were well-kept and they were quiet," explains a visitor at Pumpkin Patch RV Resort.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Parks Pond Campground, one camper shares their experience: "We borrowed a friends motor home and pulled in here and immediately wanted to stay an extra day. Nice long term campers, incredibly clean bath house and the owners were so wonderful."
Tips for camping with families
Check for kid-focused activities: Not all campgrounds cater to children. "This campground caters more to adults and does not have too much for kids to do," notes a Pumpkin Patch RV Resort visitor, suggesting families research child-friendly options.
Consider campgrounds with recreational amenities: Bangor Holden KOA offers organized activities for families. "We booked Holden KOA for a quick weekend getaway. The campground was clean and other campers were very friendly and very family oriented. Lots of organized activities and great Bingo on Saturday night," reports one camper.
Look for waterfront options: Water access provides natural entertainment. One Branch Lake visitor explains, "We sat our chairs in the water and cooled down everyday and floated on our noodles. Great relaxing place."
Tips from RVers
Check site length and layout: Many campgrounds accommodate larger rigs but require advanced planning. "Sites are very clean, good space, well laid out and pretty level. Good cellular and wi-fi coverage if that is important to you," shares a camper at Pumpkin Patch RV Resort.
Verify hookup options: Available connections vary by campground. "Full hookup (sewer, water, 50 AMP) Lots of Amenities. Cons: Gravel site, Not much shade," notes a Bangor Holden KOA visitor.
Consider maintenance support: Some campgrounds offer assistance with RV issues. "We found a great mobile Repairman that fixed our slide out while we were there. It broke the 2nd week of June and we couldn't find anyone to fix it," shares a Branch Lake camper, highlighting the value of local repair services for extended stays.
