Camping options near Belgrade, Maine range from state parks to private campgrounds across the region's terrain of ponds, lakes, and forested hills. The area sits at approximately 280 feet elevation in central Maine's lakes region, with most campgrounds operating seasonally from May through October. Weather patterns include warm summer days averaging 75-85°F and cooler nights that drop to 50-60°F, creating ideal camping conditions.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Visitors at Augusta West Kampground enjoy direct lake access for paddling. "Loved our site right on the water and access to the docks for fishing & kayaking! Kids caught many sunfish & had loads of fun," mentions Heather C. The campground provides rentals and launch points.
Disc golf courses: Several campgrounds maintain on-site courses. Beaver Brook Campground (now Jellystone Park™ Androscoggin Lake) offers a full course. "Very nice campground with a good camp store and disc golf course. We will stay again!" notes J B., highlighting this increasingly popular activity.
Coastal explorations: Within driving distance, coastal towns offer additional attractions. "We loved taking the ferry to Vinalhaven Island for the day and picking up prepared food at the Market Basket and eating it along the Rockland Harbor waterfront watching the boats come and go," writes Nancy W. about day trips from Camden Hills RV Resort.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Campers consistently praise waterfront sites. "A short set of stairs takes you down to the water which is great for exploring, launching kayaks, and letting the dog run/swim when the tide is out," notes a reviewer at Moorings Campground. Water access varies with tides at coastal locations.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region supports diverse wildlife. "This a beautiful spot, right on the Lake, listened to the loons, watched Canadian Geese with their goslings and saw a bald eagle swoop down and try to get something," reports Michi P. at Shore Hills Campground. Morning wildlife viewing proves particularly rewarding.
Social activities: Many campgrounds organize community events. "The park organizes a lot of group activities including pot lucks, lobster shore dinners, BBQ feast, and cold beverages offered during Friday Happy Hours," mentions a camper about regional facilities. These activities typically occur weekly during peak season.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Operating schedules vary significantly. Boothbay Craft Brewery & RV Resort operates through fall, with one camper noting, "We were heading back south after a road trip to Acadia, and this was a great little find for a one night stop." Many smaller campgrounds close earlier in the season.
Site privacy considerations: Site layouts differ across campgrounds. "The sites are close enough to hear every word of every conversation and there is nothing to screen sites from each other," reports Karen A. about Martin Stream Campground. Research site maps before booking for maximum privacy.
Dump station policies: Policies regarding dump station use vary. "There are no sewer hookups (which is fine) but you are only allowed ONE use at dump station upon leaving the campground," reports Rod L. about one facility. Some campgrounds charge additional fees for multiple dump station uses.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Facilities often include dedicated children's areas. "Big pool and brooks around. Tons of trails. A general store with a connected ice cream stand near the pool area," says Susan S. about Martin Stream Campground. Most family-oriented campgrounds include playgrounds and organized activities.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds offer both pool and natural water swimming. "Your choice of pool or pond. Great campground for kids. Restaurant and store. Entertainment on the weekends," notes Tammy H. about Beaver Brook Campground. Supervised swimming areas often have designated hours.
Accommodation choices: Options extend beyond traditional camping. "We rented a one room cabin that was perfect for two who flew in without camping gear. Fridge, coffee pot, microwave and AC," shares Dave M. about accommodations at Martin Stream. Cabins typically cost $20-40 more per night than comparable RV sites.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers should research site specifications. "We stayed in a 25 feet RV at the far end of the campsite. The campsite is spacious and clean, and has a nice walkway onto a small island in the lake," reports Olaf at Shore Hills Campground. Request specific site numbers when making reservations.
Brewery-adjacent camping: More to Life Campground offers different experience than brewery locations. "Very reasonably priced as well," notes Debra F. Several campgrounds in the region combine camping with craft beverage operations, offering evening entertainment options without driving.
Seasonal considerations: Fall camping requires advance planning. "The leaves were at their peak and the nights were crisp. We enjoyed our time very much," shares Celeste C. about October camping at Shore Hills. Late-season campers should pack for temperature ranges from 30-60°F.