Bryant Pond offers RV and tent camping opportunities within Maine's western mountains region, situated around 70 miles northwest of Portland. Campers can access several recreation areas along the Androscoggin River at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet. Late summer temperatures typically reach 75-80°F during the day with cooler 50-55°F nights, making additional blankets necessary even in summer.
What to do
Kayaking on the Androscoggin River: Bethel Outdoor Adventure and Campground provides river access and livery services. "The campground offers this service to non-campers which meant there were a lot of people walking through the campground," notes one reviewer who appreciated the convenience of arranged river trips.
Gem mining activities: Families can try their luck at Stony Brook Recreation and Campground. "They have a sluice on the property, where (for a fee) you can get a bucket of mined material and get to sort through it looking for minerals and gems. Whatever you find, you keep," mentions a visitor who enjoyed this unique activity.
Hiking nearby peaks: Local trails offer moderate hiking options from several campgrounds. "Take a walk over to Milan Hill SP and climb the fire tower! Sites at the top of the hill provide a view of peaks in the distance," recommends a camper who enjoyed the accessible terrain.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Papoose Pond Family Campground receives high marks for site privacy. "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," explains a recent visitor.
Family activities: Organized events keep children entertained at many campgrounds. "We tie dyed as an activity as a family and in turn had a great souvenir to bring home. We booked for next Memorial weekend while there because we had so much fun!" shares an enthusiastic family who enjoyed the structured programming.
Waterfront camping options: Many rv parks near Bryant Pond, Maine feature lakeside sites. "Loved our site right on the water and access to the docks for fishing & kayaking! Kids caught many sunfish & had loads of fun! Very quiet but quaint campground! Loved waking up to the sounds of the loons & even spotted a bald eagle!" reports a happy camper describing their waterfront experience.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds around Bryant Pond operate only between May and October. "Sites at the top of the hill provide a view of peaks in the distance. Jericho Mtn with its trails is also within 30 minutes drive. Follow them on FB and they'll help you stay up to date with trail openings and closures," advises a visitor regarding the importance of checking seasonal access.
Site privacy varies significantly: The amount of separation between campsites differs greatly between campgrounds and specific sites. "The sites are close enough to hear every word of every conversation and there is nothing to screen sites from each other," cautions one reviewer about a particularly crowded campground experience.
Bathhouse quality and accessibility: Martin Stream Campground maintains clean facilities but accessibility can be an issue at some locations. "The bathrooms and showers were always clean. Plenty of activities. There is a beautiful nature trail along the stream!" notes a satisfied visitor who appreciated the well-maintained amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreation halls: Facilities with indoor spaces provide backup plans for rainy days. "They have volleyball courts as well as a swim area with a dock, that I spent soon much time on," recalls a visitor who enjoyed the multiple activity options at one campground.
Consider the bath proximity: When camping with young children, bathroom location matters. "There aren't many, hence why we stay on a site with our own, and some are extremely far away from campsites that don't allow campers," warns a parent who found bathroom access challenging with children.
Book well ahead for holiday weekends: Popular rv campgrounds near Bryant Pond fill quickly during peak times. "We booked for next Memorial weekend while there because we had so much fun!" mentions a family that secured their reservation a full year in advance.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Danforth Bay Camping & RV Resort receives good reviews but site characteristics vary. "Very nice campground, on the lake. We were just passing through and didn't explore much, but this place is definitely going on the 'return' list. Staff is great, sites are spacious and great," comments an RVer who found the accommodations suitable.
Power options: Most rv parks in the Bryant Pond region offer 30-amp service, with 50-amp connections available at select locations. "Large sites with full hookups. Beach and boat ramp with some cabins on the water. We stayed at site M-9 and M-10," reports a visitor who found adequate power for their needs.
Satellite reception issues: Dense tree coverage can affect television reception. "The campground is pretty wooded which was nice for the shade but meant we were not able to get satellite reception with our dome mounted receiver. We ended up using our portable receiver and after two days of moving the unit we were finally able to lock into the satellites," explains an RVer who struggled with connectivity despite eventually finding a solution.