Camping sites near Brownville Junction, Maine center around the region's pristine freshwater bodies, with the area sitting at approximately 400 feet above sea level within Maine's central highlands. Winter temperatures can drop well below freezing, so most campgrounds operate seasonally from late May through early October. The region's camping options include remote riverside sites, established state parks, and privately run facilities with varying levels of development.
What to do
Swim at natural waterfall pools: At Gauntlet Falls in KIJO Mary Multi Use Forest, campers can enjoy a swimming hole below the falls. "There was a family swimming and fly fishing in different areas below the falls," reports one visitor. The falls are accessible even for day use if you're staying elsewhere.
Fish directly from your campsite: Several waterfront sites allow fishing without leaving camp. At Pleasant River (Katahdin Ironworks), one camper noted, "We even were visited by a moose and her calf one evening! Each site has a covered picnic table and fire ring, with access to a private, clean latrine (with TP!) across the road."
Explore hiking trails: The region offers access to well-known trails including sections of the Appalachian Trail. "Make sure to stick around and watch the stunning sunsets with views of Borestone Mountain, which is also an amazing nearby hike! The park also offers several hikes around the lake and camping area," mentions a camper who stayed at Peaks-Kenny State Park.
What campers like
Waterfront camping options: Piscataquis Point offers riverside sites that campers appreciate for relaxation. "Sitting next to a warm, crackling fire listening to the sound of the river was truly the cherry on top and made for a very relaxing evening," writes one visitor.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A visitor at Spacious Skies Balsam Woods noted, "Large, clean shared bathrooms with good water pressure... The shower house was newly remodeled and very clean, as was the laundry facility with dishwashing/utility sink."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Moose sightings are particularly valued. "This was an unexpectedly beautiful site and great access point for hiking on the Appalachian Trail or Gulf Hagas area... We even were visited by a moose and her calf one evening!" shared a camper at Pleasant River.
What you should know
Access road conditions: Many camping areas require travel on unpaved roads. For East Branch Pleasant River campsites, one camper advises, "Look out for the logging trucks! They move fast and have the right of way. The main roads seemed to be maintained pretty well. A grader was out and about when I was there."
Seasonal costs and availability: Seboeis Public Lands offers free camping for up to 14 days, but this creates challenges. "Because it's free and extended(14-day) stays are permitted, it can be hard to snag a drive-in, lakefront site. I returned on 3 consecutive weekdays and the only drive-in sites were occupied by the same campers," reports one visitor.
Payment methods: Some campgrounds have specific payment requirements. At Jo-Mary Campground, a camper noted, "When we checked in we found out they didn't take credit cards. This was not mentioned when I called for the reservation. We scrounged up the cash…barely."
Tips for camping with families
Consider pools and playground amenities: For families with children, amenities like swimming pools provide entertainment. "It's got a nice pool, clean showers, and access to trails around," noted a visitor at Spacious Skies Balsam Woods, which also features "a great big playground, basketball court, volleyball net, arcade, ice cream, outdoor projector for Saturday night movie."
Look for family-friendly activities: Peaks-Kenny State Park offers beach access and recreational options. "A short walk down to the beach area which offers a playground, cookout spots, and canoe rentals," reports one camper. Another mentions, "The sites are spacious and there is space between them."
Bee awareness: At some campgrounds, insects can be an issue. "I don't have many complaints about this campground. There was a slight bee problem during our stay, but that's to expected," mentioned a camper at Peaks-Kenny State Park, adding "They have running hot water showers, a large basin sink outside to wash dishes, and flush toilets."
Tips from RVers
Site size and levelness: For RV campers, site dimensions matter. "Nice large, level site with water and electric hookups," reported an RVer at Spacious Skies Balsam Woods. The campground offers "grass and rock lots for camping" with options for both seasonal and short-term stays.
Hookup availability: While many campgrounds offer partial hookups, full-service sites are limited. "Located close enough to Moosehead lake to be able to take advantage of it. They have a great camp store, game room, and snack shop in which they serve great food at on the weekends," noted a visitor describing Balsam Woods' amenities.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly. In the East Branch Pleasant River area, a camper reported "No cell coverage but you may be able to send/receive text messages at the Little Jo Mary Pond campsites." At Seboeis Public Lands, "Cell phone coverage (Verizon) is spotty once you turn off the main road, but you may be able to find a place to send texts."
