Searching for the best camping near Carrabassett Valley, ME? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
$32 - $40 / night
"Nestled in western Maine just past Sugarloaf ski mountain lies Cathedral Pines. When you arrive you will appreciate the name."
"This campground on the shore of Flagstaff Lake features large level sites nestled among towering pines, both with and without hookups (w/e; dump station available)."
"This small, family run campground is a nice spot to get off the grid and explore western Maine. I stayed here because of its proximity to the Fire Warden trail up Mt."
"This campground is a little off the beaten path but it is worth it in our opinion.
We discovered it while on a motorcycle trip 2 years ago. It was a great find."
"Owners, Judy & Buster have created a camping gem in rural Maine."
"Game room, pool, you can walk a holiday if you would like. Great entertainment on the weekends. Clean bathrooms and up to date. Friendly campers. Baked bean suppers sold on Saturday night."
$20 - $40 / night
"Access to park amenities like lake and hiking trails.
Have camped here in summer (be prepared for bugs) and winter (no services) and enjoyed every visit."
"The sites closer to the lake have some standing water surrounding the sites. Stayed in 5 and it was super dry."
"It is right next to the stafford brook trail to hike to the top of Bigelow and you can easily hike from your campsite to the top of the mountain and back within a day."
"Sites that I saw looked great, trails need some maintenance though, and some of the sites need clean up.
The Road is rough, but with care you can get there, just go slow."
$30 - $60 / night
"On the grounds of a roadside motel just 6 miles from Sugarloaf and east access to the AT, this newly added 13+ campsites are easy in and out, well appointed and have wonderful facilities."
"Site was quiet and really felt like one was “in” the Maine woods. 4 platforms and a privy."
"It was pretty close to the summit of My. Avery, so please be aware you are getting to the thin sections of tree line. There are a few nice and sturdy platforms here which are quite nice."
TravelerStaff was very helpful. We arrived,after a 3 1/2 hour drive, early for check in but were able to go to our site. The lean-to site was beautifully situated by the incredible river making it easy to take a dip or go fishing. The pit toilet behind the site is our only complaint. There were times we could smell the stench from our site. There is construction work at the campground as they build bathhouses that should be done by next spring. Hopefully, they get rid of the pit toilets.
ScoutI am currently living all year round at Stony Brook Campgrounds. Showers clean ,bathrooms clean. Very nice pool. Basketball and volleyball. RV pull thru sites and tents and cabins as well. Excellent campgrounds to call home.
GuideNice campground, we enjoyed our site next to the cabin that our friends stayed in. One thing to note, lots of returning seasonal campers.
The campground offers lots of fun activities, such as bingo, karaoke, and live music. The new owners plan on new upgrades as time goes on.
GuideMay Camping Weekend Recap – Moose Alley Magic (Even in a Cold Snap!) ❄️🏕️
We weren’t expecting a cold spell this late in May, but Mother Nature had her own plans! Even with the surprise chill, we had such a wonderful time at our campsite nestled along Moose Alley. While it’s near a road, don’t worry—it’s not a main highway, just a quiet local path that adds to the peaceful vibe of the area.
Though the moose kept their distance, we did spot some fresh footprints—which made the search feel extra magical! The surrounding views of the mountains and water were breathtaking, and there were plenty of short and long hikes to explore for all experience levels.
We brought my Grandma and Service Dog along, and both were welcomed with kindness. The folks who braved the cold weather like us were so sweet, and the community feel at the campground made the chilly temps totally worth it. Huge shoutout to the park rangers—they’re around, approachable, and truly there to help, so don’t hesitate to ask them anything you need.
Pro tip: Buy those fire starters! They’re a lifesaver in cold, damp weather and made our fires easy and cozy every night.
All in all, cold weather or not, it was a heartwarming weekend surrounded by nature, lovely people, and good vibes. Moose Alley—we’ll definitely be back (hopefully next time with a moose sighting too)!
#CampingInMay #MooseAlley #ColdSnapAdventure #CampfireVibes #NatureLovers #MountainViews #FamilyCamping #AccessibleAdventures #ServiceDogFriendly #CampgroundCommunity #MemorialWeekend
TravelerI was shocked to find Deer Mountain mostly empty in the middle of summer. It doesn’t have the amenities of some state parks, but nearby Lake Francis SP is available for showers, etc. This is a great location for those who want to get away from the crowds and noise. There’s a wide variety of birds for those who are interested.
Site 28 is worth the short hike to get there. Don’t be put off if you don’t have backpacking gear: there is a wagon to help haul stuff to the site and back.
A few things to know, though: the trees have grown and the view from the tent platform no longer looks like the photos on ReserveAmerica. It’s a much more limited water view, but still gorgeous. There are no trees suitable for hammock camping with a view. And much of the site and surrounding area is a giant Canada Goose latrine. (Imagine a dog park where no one has ever cleaned up after their pets.)
GuidePerfect stay if you have kiddos and dogs! There’s a playground, arcade, and beach. They offer kayak and canoe rentals. We grabbed a tent site for 3 days and it had water and electric! You get a picnic table and fire ring
TravelerWe had a great stay at coos canyon campground! Didn't have too much interaction with staff, but when we did they were very friendly. We had site 7. Sites are good size, and not super close to neighbors. Wifi only works at the camp store, there are extenders throughout the camp, and it worked at our site the first day but didn't after that. The office was surprised it worked for us on day 1 and said they couldn't fix it because it wasn't supposed to work. There isnt any activities like some other campgrounds we've been to, just a small playground, but the canyon and the river give you lots of outdoor things to do. Rent a pan or sluice from the coos canyon rock and gem shop a 3 min walk from the office and pan for gold in the river right from the campground! Fishing, hiking, cliff jumping, and swimming can all be done with a quick walk all while staying in the campground. The camp store has some bare necessities, but did not have any bug swatters (the horse flys can get crazy here) but a spatula from the camp store worked OK. We will definetly be back for some more gold prospecting!
GuideThis is private land that the owner rents to campers. It is a lovely single camp site with great views and fields. It is relatively close to the road but there is very little traffic and no noise. The space is level. There is a picnic table, fire ring, full hook ups, and box with an information sheet that includes things to do and places to eat for the surrounding area. The view was expansive and beautiful, with wonderful sunsets. The walking trails that have been cut are lovely, and a great place for a short walk, or to walk with your dog. The owner met us immediately upon our arrival and was very friendly. The only challenge is we stayed in July, and the horse flys were viscous. They were not by the campsite, but were abundant on the trails, and I literally had to run to get back to the camper to minimize the bites. If you are susceptible to horse fly bites, be aware during the horse fly season. My husband did not get bit.
This area is very rural. Skowhegan, which is just over 20 minutes away, is the closest town, and has a few restaurants and a nice farmers market. There are many hiking and atv trails in the general area. I would recommend this spot for a weekend in the area, or passing through for the night.
LegendGeneral: Small (15-site) campground near Grafton Notch State Park (but not IN the park). No hookups. Not all will agree with me, but I am glad no generators are allowed.
Site Quality: Sites are gravel, level, and have enough trees to afford privacy between sites.
Bath/Shower House: It is immaculately clean. Each gender has two stalls and one ADA-accessible shower. The shower has nice warm water and a great flow. There is also a very clean vault toilet.
Activities/Amenities: Horseshoes and cornhole in the lawn area in the center. Information on many local hikes. Rocky beach has tables where you can sit and relax. There are two dishwashing sinks, potable water, and a dump station.
What makes this campground shine is the owner, Mo. We’ve stayed in many campgrounds but hands down, Mo takes more pride in her campground than any other we’ve been in. Seasonal decorations, flower pots, and Mo is an on-site presence to answer questions, engage in conversation, and make sure the sites and all facilities are pristine. We stayed here five years ago and look forward to hopefully staying again in the future. About the only thing I can find fault with is the proximity to the road but even at that, road noise is minimal.
Camping near Carrabassett Valley, Maine, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.
Camping near Carrabassett Valley, Maine, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a memorable experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Carrabassett Valley camping areas near Sugarloaf?
Camping areas near Sugarloaf offer varying levels of amenities. Grafton Notch Campground provides 15 well-wooded sites and is open from mid-May through Columbus Day. It's situated close to great hiking trails and natural sightseeing spots. For those seeking primitive camping, Lone Jack Campground offers 15 basic sites with fire rings. Most campgrounds in the area provide vault toilets and fire rings, with some offering water access. More developed sites might include picnic tables and access to recreational activities like boating, fishing, and hiking. The level of amenities decreases the more remote you go, with backcountry sites offering minimal facilities.
When is the best season for camping in Carrabassett Valley near Sugarloaf Mountain?
The best season for camping near Sugarloaf Mountain is late spring through early fall, typically mid-May through October. Rangeley Lake State Park Campground and other area campgrounds typically open in May and close around Columbus Day. Summer (June-August) offers warm days perfect for hiking, fishing, and water activities on nearby lakes and rivers. Early fall provides spectacular foliage viewing opportunities with comfortable daytime temperatures and cooler nights. Northeast Whitewater Lodge is popular during summer months for guided activities like whitewater rafting and moose viewing tours. Spring camping (May-early June) can be beautiful but prepare for black flies and potentially muddy conditions from snowmelt.
Where are the campgrounds near Sugarloaf in Carrabassett Valley, Maine?
For camping near Sugarloaf, Cathedral Pines Campground is one of the closest options, located just past Sugarloaf Mountain alongside beautiful Flagstaff Lake. Another nearby option is Dead River Access on Long Falls Dam Road, which offers about 10 primitive sites with large rocks bordering each site. For those willing to travel slightly further, Happy Horseshoe Campground near Lexington Township and Round Barn Campsites provide additional options. The Bigelow Mountain range also offers backcountry camping at sites like Moose Falls Campsite for hikers looking for more remote experiences.
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