Glamping near Dixmont, Maine offers a unique camping experience within central Maine's rolling hills and woodlands. The region sits at approximately 500 feet above sea level, with typical summer temperatures between 65-80°F and cooler nights around 55°F. Canvas accommodations, glamping yurts, and luxury camping options are available from April through October, with most locations requiring advance reservations.
What to do
Kayak on Sennebec Lake: Guests at Sennebec Lake Campground can access the water directly from their sites. "My family and I (two adults, 14 yo and a 9 yo) just visited Searsport Shores for the first time again since our kids were very little and were so happy to be back! We were there during high camping season/post Covid so it was very busy (especially the RV sites) but still very peaceful and quiet at night," notes a visitor at Sennebec Lake Campground.
Hike Mount Battie: Camden Hills State Park provides access to multiple hiking trails right from the campground. "The campgrounds website has a very helpful map showing which sites are reservable and what they offer. There is a dump station and water spigots are scattered throughout the campground. Free showers are located in the bathhouse/restrooms and were clean," states a camper at Camden Hills State Park Campground.
Explore coastal towns: The midcoast area offers charming towns within 30-45 minutes of Dixmont. "Camden should be on everyone's list of places to see if you are traveling the Maine coast. Within 10 miles are great museums like the Farnsworth Art Museum, the Maine Lighthouse Museum, the Sail, Power, and Steam Museum, and others."
What campers like
Quiet woodland settings: The wooded glamping sites provide natural surroundings with modern comforts. "The tent sites are completely separate from the RVs and are in the woods, beautifully maintained. The gardens, grounds and bathroom/laundry amenities that are offered are kept in beautiful clean condition," shares a visitor at Sennebec Lake Campground.
Ocean access: Several glamping options provide waterfront locations. "We got off on the wrong foot so badly, that it still makes me cringe. It was raining when we arrived. We had a reservation. When we arrived, we were asked what size our tent was (this was not addressed during the reservation, which was well in advance.), and told that it was too large," reports a camper at Searsport Shores Ocean Campground, highlighting the importance of confirming accommodation details.
Organized activities: Many sites offer structured events. "We booked Holden KOA for a quick weekend getaway. We booked a deluxe patio site. The site was great, flat and easy to back into. The campground was clean and other campers were very friendly and very family oriented. Lots of organized activities and great Bingo on Saturday night," explains a visitor at Bangor Holden KOA.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most glamping accommodations require advance booking, especially for summer months. "We were worried when I decided to come to this part of Maine in the fall without reservations. It's early October, and I learned that Maine State Parks are first come first serve at this point. I was pleasantly surprised to arrive and find plenty of vacant spots," notes a Camden Hills camper.
Weather considerations: Maine weather changes quickly, with rain possible even in summer. "We arrived and waited while the owner meandered to the office, on the phone. She opened the door to the camp office/store and proceeded inside without acknowledging my presence or inviting me in," reports a visitor at Sebasticook Lake Campground, highlighting the importance of being prepared for varying service experiences.
Amenity variations: Glamping facilities offer different levels of comfort. "The campground's commitment to modern conveniences is evident, with amenities that bring together comfort and wilderness living. During our stay, remarkable service provided a seamless experience," shares a Sennebec Lake visitor regarding their updated facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Research events before arrival. "The camp store was awesome with lots of great items we added to our camper! We will definitely book again and highly recommend it for a fun weekend away," explains a Bangor Holden KOA visitor who enjoyed their organized family activities.
Kid-friendly options: Look for sites with playgrounds and protected swimming. "We did the pancake breakfast for donation, crafts, and wagon ride during the day as well as enjoyed the well kept pool. The kids loved the playground and the ice cream window," shares another KOA visitor.
Site selection: Reserve larger sites for family groups. "I am new to pulling a small camper, and staff was great helping me secure a site that was easy for me to back into, and beautiful. Staff and other campers answered some basic questions graciously," notes a camper at Paul Bunyan Campground.
Tips from RVers
Levelness considerations: Some sites require more setup work. "We have a 35ft RV, and we faced no issues getting in and out of the property and the sites across the water were level, with no extra leveling needed," explains a Sennebec Lake visitor.
Utility access: Check hookup availability when booking. "Full hookup (sewer, water, 50 AMP) Lots of Amenities. Cons: Gravel site, Not much shade," advises a Bangor Holden KOA visitor about site features.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging entry roads. "The roads are narrow and full of bumps, mud, etc. The site, 34 was on the water, but was so bumpy and sloped it would be impossible to get level," warns a Sebasticook Lake Campground visitor.
