The Belgrade Lakes region offers camping opportunities in central Maine's inland waterway system that spans seven interconnected lakes. Summer water temperatures average 70-75°F, creating ideal conditions for water recreation. Most campgrounds in the region maintain seasonal operating schedules, typically closing by mid-October due to decreasing nighttime temperatures.
What to do
Paddling routes: Access Martin Stream for kayaking from Martin Stream Campground in Turner. "There is a beautiful nature trail along the stream! We tented in a great little spot right along the stream," reports Catherine M.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for eagles and loons at Augusta West Kampground in Winthrop. "Loved waking up to the sounds of the loons & even spotted a bald eagle! We would deff return!" shares Heather C. The campground provides waterfront sites with direct lake access for wildlife observation.
Disc golf courses: Play at Beaver Brook Campground where they maintain an on-site course. "Very nice campground with a good camp store and disc golf course. We will stay again!" notes J B. The course is accessible to all registered campers without additional fees.
What campers like
Quiet locations: Many campers appreciate the peaceful settings at Shore Hills Campground in Boothbay Harbor. "Quiet, peaceful, relaxing. A few children but it was mostly adults the weekend we visited," notes rachel S. The campground offers riverfront sites with tidal water access.
Free water craft: Two Rivers Campground in Skowhegan provides complimentary canoes and kayaks. "Took a canoe up the river for a couple hours. Kind people. Clean. Would definitely stay again," shares Andrea S. Reservations for the boats are made in 2-hour time slots with paddles and life jackets provided.
Family activities: Scheduled events keep younger campers engaged. "Plenty to do for all ages. Big campground with lots of sites. We will definitely come back again," says Lori M. about Beaver Brook Campground. Activities typically include candy bar bingo, water activities, and organized crafts.
What you should know
No alcohol policies: More to Life Campground in Winthrop prohibits alcohol on premises. "Christian based, Nice, clean, family friendly campground. Plenty to do with the family including a beach, playground, water activities, and crafts!" notes Ashley V. The campground operates from Memorial Day through September with 30-amp hookups available.
Tidal considerations: Water access at some campgrounds follows tidal schedules. "The river is tidal and so unless you want to wade threw mud there is not access beyond a couple hours around high tide," explains rachel S. about Shore Hills Campground.
Weekend noise levels: Campground atmospheres can change from weekdays to weekends. "Midweek and has been very nice! Clean and quiet. Plenty of on river activities," reports Tracy L. about Two Rivers Campground. Weekends typically feature more organized activities and higher occupancy rates.
Tips for camping with families
Child-specific amenities: Jellystone Park Androscoggin Lake offers extensive water features for younger campers. "Has a lot of stuff for kids including playground, pool, water slides, canoeing, kayaking, mini golf and disc golf," notes Peter F. The campground structures activities for various age groups.
Evening entertainment: Look for campgrounds with organized family activities. "For parents; live entertainment with local bands on Saturday nights, an adult only swim nightly. Playground is close enough to the pool to actually enjoy this while listening to my kids play," shares Angela M.
Site selection: Families should request sites near amenities. "The only downside is that they are pretty far away from the bathrooms," notes LoneCamper C. about tent sites at Two Rivers Campground. Most family-oriented sites provide easier access to restrooms and recreation areas.
Tips from RVers
Site positioning: RV sites vary significantly in privacy and location. At Boothbay Craft Brewery & RV Resort, "Sites are close together, with full hookups. 50, 30, and 20 Amp, water and sewer. We had a pull through site which worked really well for newbies like my wife and I," explains Joe R.
Road noise considerations: Some RV parks have highway proximity issues. "If there is a down side to the park it would be the road noise. You are right off of Rt. 27, which is the main road into Boothbay Harbor," reports Joe R. about Boothbay Craft Brewery & RV Resort.
Sewer dump limitations: Policies on dump station usage differ between rv campgrounds in Belgrade Lakes, Maine. "You are only allowed ONE use at dump station upon leaving the campground. I arrived with a 1/3 tanks and wanted to dump on way into park because I was staying 3 days/nights and they said ok but you can't dump on the way out," reports Rod L. about Martin Stream Campground.