Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Carrabassett Valley, Maine, situated in the western Maine mountains at elevations between 1,000-3,000 feet. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero, while summer nights remain cool even when daytime temperatures reach the 70s. The region's camping season typically runs May through September with many sites accessible only by dirt roads that become impassable during spring mud season or after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Hiking major peaks: Access Maine's 4,000-footers from Cathedral Pines Campground. "I've used this campground as a basecamp as I was bagging the Maine 4000-footers in the area. It's a great place to return and relax after climbing the Bigelow range, Sugarloaf & Spaulding, the Crockers, even Saddleback," notes one camper.
ATV trail access: The region offers extensive trail networks accessible from several campgrounds. At Deer Farm Camps & Campground, "We truly enjoy the vast ATV trail system. This campground is surrounded by spectacular mountains, rolling fields, towering trees, fragrant wild flowers and beautiful butterflies."
Wildlife viewing: Early morning or evening drives offer opportunities to see moose. "We were able to see moose regularly during evening hours just a few miles from camp. When leaving camp make a left, drive aprox 15 mins and you are sure to see them," explains a camper at Happy Horseshoe Campground.
What campers like
Lake access with mountain views: Rangeley Lake State Park Campground provides water recreation with mountain backdrops. "We were amazed by the concert of the Loons on the lake... We stayed there 1-4 September 2020. Zero bugs beyond a few basic house flies. Breathtaking water views and well maintained grounds and facilities."
Hot showers: After a day of hiking, many campers appreciate quality facilities. "Good hot showers" are available at Deer Farm Camps, while Rangeley Lake State Park gets specific praise: "The water pressure in the showers is a highlight."
Budget-friendly options: Free or low-cost sites can be found at Trout Brook Campground. "Cannot be beat for zero dollars. Posted up to 14 days max. Even an out-house," reports one camper about this dispersed camping area.
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer more seclusion than others. At Round Barn Campsites, "There are a dozen or so tent sites with two big group sites... The best tent site is on the island just offshore accessible by sandbar which is usually just knee deep."
Road conditions: Many camping areas require traveling on unpaved roads. "The road is rough, but with care you can get there, just go slow," notes a camper about Round Barn Campsites. Similarly, at Trout Brook Campground: "The access road in is rough, not for normal street cars."
Limited services: Most dispersed sites lack amenities. "There are no service, no water, no electricity, no to little cell coverage. There is one pit toilet," explains a Trout Brook Campground visitor. Even at established campgrounds, services may be limited during shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Happy Horseshoe Campground caters to families with children. "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."
Beach access: Look for sites with gentle water entry for swimming. At Round Barn Campsites, "there is a nice beach area big enough to accommodate however many people you bring. The cove makes for safe swimming away from the wind and waves offshore."
Planned activities: Some campgrounds organize regular events. "Owners, Judy & Buster have created a camping gem in rural Maine... Buster serves up Bean-Hole Beans every Saturday evening. It's a Mainer thing," shares a Happy Horseshoe visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: Mountain View Motel & Campground offers "newly added 13+ campsites are easy in and out, well appointed and have wonderful facilities. Toilets, hot showers, gazebo with fire pit, lounge with WiFi, full kitchen, TV, games and more."
Limited RV accessibility: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. At Trout Brook Campground, "Not larger RV friendly but was comfortable enough to get the 27' foot trailer in."
Hookup availability: Cathedral Pines Campground offers various hookup options. "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)."
Scout
