Tent camping near Caratunk, Maine offers backcountry experiences within the 15,000-acre Little Moose Public Lands area and throughout the Bigelow Preserve. Temperatures during summer nights often drop to the 40s and 50s°F despite warm days. Most locations sit at elevations between 1,000-1,500 feet with higher camps providing mountain views across the rugged Carrabassett Valley.
What to do
Pond fishing access: Trout Pond Campsite provides direct pond access with fishing opportunities for native brook trout. A camper noted, "Access to the trailhead leading to the campsite is well-marked and there is a nice large parking lot. Head down the relatively easy trail (about 250 feet elevation change) for about ¾ of a mile until you reach the campsite" where you can enjoy water activities.
Mountain hiking: Maine Huts & Trails maintains an extensive network connecting primitive campsites to backcountry huts. "Multiple huts laid out over 35 square miles in the heart of the Carrabasset Valley. Trails lead you into a paradise of Maine's backcountry," notes one visitor, mentioning the various huts available to explore.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer prime moose viewing opportunities, especially near ponds. The Northeast Whitewater Lodge area offers dedicated moose tours from their location. According to a visitor, "This is also where you can book a moose tour, rafting trip, or inflatable kayaks if you are feeling adventurous."
What campers like
Lakefront camping: Myer's Lodge East sites offer direct water access with mountain views. One camper described, "My fiancé and I tented here over the weekend and although it was chilly at night (33F!) we had a blast having water access right from our site and the ability to park within steps of our tent."
Private tent spots: Round Barn Campsites features secluded sites including a unique island location. A visitor shares, "The best tent site is on the island just offshore accessible by sandbar which is usually just knee deep. The cove makes for safe swimming away from the wind and waves offshore."
Natural soundscape: Several campsites feature distinctive natural sounds. At Bigelow Col Campsite, "The echoing calls of loons during both day and night created an immersive natural ambiance, and the hooting owls added to the enchanting soundscape after sunset."
What you should know
Fire permit requirements: Most areas require fire permits before starting campfires. At Little Notch Pond Campsite, "You do need to obtain a permit (call 207-695-3721) prior to kindling a fire and can collect firewood but many of it is wet and unseasoned."
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites require careful driving. One camper at Round Barn Campsites advised, "The Road is rough, but with care you can get there, just go slow."
Facility limitations: Most primitive sites have minimal facilities. Upper Gravel Pit camping area has "no utilities, potable water, restroom, or garbage facilities so bring the water your need and carry out your trash."
Tips for camping with families
Proximity camping: Magic Falls Adventures Campground offers more developed facilities suitable for families. One visitor mentioned it "would be great for a big family or group because it would all be close together. They supplied all the sites with bottle/can and trash cans."
Beach areas: Some locations feature small beaches perfect for children. Round Barn Campsites offers "a nice beach area big enough to accommodate however many people you bring" making it ideal for family swimming.
Bathroom considerations: Most backcountry sites have primitive toilet facilities. At Little Notch Pond, the toilet "is essentially a toilet seat on an open wooden frame with chicken wire around it," which might require preparation for children unaccustomed to primitive facilities.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most camping near Caratunk is tent-only with minimal RV access. A visitor to Myer's Lodge East warns, "It mentioned on this site that it's for RV parking, but that isn't accurate. There is a parking lot (which you cannot camp in) and you must walk in (tent only)."
Nearby dump stations: For RVs staying in the region, services are available nearby. At Upper Gravel Pit, a camper notes, "There is a dump station at the nearby Moosehead Family Campground" for those needing to service their vehicles.
Parking limitations: Little Notch Pond Campsite requires hikers to leave vehicles at the trailhead. "Entrance to the trailhead leading to the campsite is well-marked and there is a nice large parking lot," notes one camper, making it important for RVers to have alternative transportation methods from their parked vehicles.
