RV camping options near Coopers Mills, Maine range from basic campsites to full-service resorts across the Midcoast region. Located in Lincoln County at approximately 200 feet above sea level, this area experiences seasonal weather patterns with July temperatures averaging 70°F while October drops to the mid-50s. Most campgrounds in this region close by mid-October with the first frost typically arriving in late September.
What to do
Explore coastal preserves: Visitors staying at Shore Hills Campground & RV Park can access multiple nature areas. "The park has a short trail across to an island which our dog loved to run around on and jump in the water. Nearby is the Ovens Mouth Preserve which has great hiking and nice water views and is just one of many nature preserves in the area which all are very nice, well-marked, well-maintained, and dog-friendly."
Visit local museums: Within 30 miles of Coopers Mills, several historical attractions await. "Searsport houses the wonderful Penobscot Marine Museum and two miles from Moose Point State Park with hiking trails and gorgeous views," notes a reviewer about sites near Belfast.
Enjoy fresh seafood: Local restaurants serve Maine specialties throughout the region. "You have to stop at Bet's Fish Fry for the best fried fish and chips you have ever had. Bring a beer or two and enjoy eating your food on the picnic tables in the nearby park," reports a visitor who explored the area while staying at Shore Hills Campground.
Take island excursions: Many campers recommend day trips to nearby islands. "We loved taking the ferry to Vinalhaven Island for the day and picking up prepared food at the Market Basket and eating it along the Rockland Harbor waterfront watching the boats come and go," shares a visitor who stayed at Camden Hills RV Resort.
What campers like
Waterfront camping experiences: Many RV sites near Coopers Mills provide water access. "The ocean access in this park is great! A short set of stairs takes you down to the water which is great for exploring, launching kayaks, and letting the dog run/swim when the tide is out," notes a reviewer about their coastal camping experience.
Community activities: Social events are popular at many campgrounds. At Moorings Oceanfront RV Resort, "The parks small size and friendly people make this an enjoyable place to stay. We like the fact that they had social activities (like free happy hour and donuts) that bring people together."
Brewery connections: Boothbay Craft Brewery & RV Resort combines camping with craft beverages. "We had an incredible stay at this lovely little family owned brewery and RV park. Plenty of privacy in between pull-in spots and the grounds are well maintained. Close to Boothbay Harbor and the Botanical Gardens are a must see!"
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate larger camping areas. "Shore Hills has a wide variety of sites that can accommodate everything from the biggest size RV to tents. The great thing about this campground is that there is a such a large selection of sites that you pretty much can get what you want."
What you should know
Tidal considerations: Coastal camping requires awareness of water levels. "The tides are crazy in Maine so be careful if you use the boat launch that you don't get stuck on a mud flat when the 9-11' tide disappears," warns a Shore Hills camper.
Reservation timelines: Augusta West Kampground and other facilities have specific operating seasons. "Sites are equipped with water and electric. If you have sewer. Lots of Lakeside sites," notes a reviewer about the campground that operates from May 15 to September 30.
Variable internet access: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "We decided not to shell out the money but since we did not get a strong Verizon signal, internet access was pretty much non-existent. The other problem was that we did not get any over-the-air television channels and they did not have cable."
Tree navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have overhead obstacles. "Lots of tall pine trees provide shade but also make it a little difficult to navigate the roads. We had to go pretty slow to avoid hitting tree branches. Parking under the pines also meant a lot of sap on our roof which was a bear to remove."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Jellystone Park™ Androscoggin Lake provides multiple water features. "Our family has been going annually for the last five years. We meet up with a couple Moms and their children who we don't get to see too often and make it a 'girls and kids' trip and have a blast making memories. This year we spent our days in the lake, pool, or just hanging out."
Kid-friendly activities: Scheduled events keep children engaged. "For parents; live entertainment with local bands on Saturday nights, an adult only swim nightly. Playground is close enough to the pool to actually enjoy this while listening to my kids play, candy bar bingo where you can play bingo WITH your kids and was quite fun."
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Look for sites with good internal roads. "We opted for a small group site with a centrally located fire pit and spent our days in the lake, pool, or just hanging out while our kids (ranging from 8-12) rode their bikes, made friends at the playground or participated in the activities."
Space between sites: Consider privacy when booking. "Sites are all big with plenty of room between the sites for the perfect amount of privacy. Hook ups for water/electric/sewer but also tons of tent sites too."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: At Greenlaw's RV Park & Campground, "Esthetically it is a little rough around the edges, so as we pulled in our first impressions were not great. However, the site we were in was quite nice with enough room for 22' camper. Our site was wooded, and would have been tight for a larger rig. There are sites in an open area much better suited for bigger rigs."
Honor system bookings: Some campgrounds maintain traditional reservation practices. "Once your reservation is made (we texted the owner to make ours) reservations are on the honor system that you show up. No prepayment was required. An invoice is emailed to you with payment options the morning after you check in."
Tree damage prevention: When parking at heavily wooded campsites, watch for sap. "Satellite reception was also a problem because of the trees. It is best to have a portable unit but even then, it could be difficult to get reception."
Seasonal facility changes: Check what amenities are currently available. "A visitor to Camden Hills noted, 'Bath house was under construction' but most facilities update their facilities regularly between seasons."