Bryant Pond, Maine sits at an elevation of 732 feet in western Maine's Oxford County. The region features a humid continental climate with winter lows often reaching below zero degrees Fahrenheit and summer highs averaging in the upper 70s. Dispersed camping sites near Bryant Pond can be reserved from May through mid-October, with most facilities closing after Columbus Day weekend due to freezing temperatures.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing on Long Lake: Visitors at Lakeside Pines Campground can rent kayaks or bring their own watercraft to explore Long Lake. "We saw moose and other wildlife. It was fantastic," notes a visitor who ventured out from the surrounding area.
Mini golf and family activities: Jellystone Park Glen Ellis offers free mini golf included with your stay. "Included in your stay is Mini golf, shuffle board, the Waterpark, hayrides, movie night, magicians and more," writes one camper who visited during their themed week.
Farm experiences: Take a short drive to Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Campground where camping supports a non-profit organic farm. "The working farm is open to visit and walk around. Pet the baby cows and see the pigs and goats," shares a camper who appreciated the educational aspect.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: The Loon's Nest provides exclusive access to a quiet Maine lake. According to one visitor, it's "the perfect setting to enjoy the best of Maine, sitting along the lake with several mountains nearby."
Spacious wooded campsites: Many campers appreciate the natural setting at Papoose Pond Family Campground and Cabins. One reviewer notes, "The campsite was large and private with good distance between the next sites. We were on the pool/rec hall side and it definitely seemed less condensed over there than the pond side."
Clean facilities: Across multiple campgrounds, visitors highlight well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. At Moose Brook State Park Campground, campers appreciate that the "new shower and bathroom building was clean" and note that "campsites were well spaced."
What you should know
Bear activity: Some campgrounds report black bear sightings, particularly at night. One camper at Moose Brook State Park Campground advises, "Watch out for duckage," referring to water quality issues that occasionally affect swimming areas.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds operate from May through mid-October, with exact dates varying. Poland Spring Campground runs "from May 1 to Columbus Day," while Lakeside Pines operates "Memorial Day to Sep 15."
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. At Two Lakes Camping, visitors warn that "getting into your site with a camper requires maneuvering no matter how you come into the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated kid activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular programming. At Poland Spring Campground, a visitor reports they offer "daily activities for adults & kids. The pool is nice and has a great little playground next to it."
Consider site location carefully: Family campers recommend selecting sites strategically. At Sebago Lake State Park Campground, one camper advises, "Half of area is set up with RV hookups, so it nicely separates the tents from the RVs."
Pack for varied weather conditions: Maine weather can change quickly, even in summer. A camper at Wolfe's Neck noted, "We had a lovely time despite the rain and will try to go again next year!"
Tips from RVers
Narrow roads and tight turns: Many campgrounds have limited space for large rigs. At Poland Spring Campground, RVers note "Trees and roots everywhere making it impossible to take turns," suggesting smaller vehicles might navigate more easily.
Hookup availability varies: Check electricity specifications before booking. While most glamping close to Bryant Pond, Maine offers electric hookups, amperage varies. Some campgrounds provide 50-amp service while others only offer 30-amp connections.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds with RV sites have onsite dump stations. Two Lakes Camping and Honey Run Campground provide sanitary dump facilities, while others may require driving to nearby service areas.
