Tent camping near Eustis, Maine provides access to the western mountains region at elevations between 1,000-4,000 feet with significant temperature swings between day and night. The area receives higher precipitation than coastal Maine, with summer thunderstorms common in July and August. Most primitive tent sites are concentrated along the shores of Flagstaff Lake and within the 36,000-acre Bigelow Preserve, which contains both roadside and remote access sites.
What to do
Hiking the Stafford Brook Trail: From Round Barn Campsites, campers can access direct trails to Bigelow Mountain. "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," notes one reviewer.
Swimming in protected coves: The sandbar areas at several lakeside campsites provide safer swimming options away from the main lake. "The cove makes for safe swimming away from the wind and waves offshore," according to a Round Barn Campsites visitor.
Paddling on Mooselookmeguntic Lake: Stephen Phillips Memorial Preserve Wilderness offers canoe rentals for lake exploration. A visitor recommends: "You must canoe or kayak around the lake and explore the other smaller islands and areas. Weather can change quickly out there. Gets windy. So be prepared."
Stargazing on the water: The dark skies over the remote lakes provide exceptional star-viewing. "I've personally never seen so many stars as I did our on the lake in the evenings," reports one camper at Stephen Phillips Memorial Preserve.
What campers like
Island camping: Some sites at Cupsuptic Campgrounds are boat-access only, providing extra seclusion. "Moose come right through the campground at night. It's amazing," shares one visitor.
Wilderness camping without crowds: Many campers appreciate the lower density compared to other Maine destinations. "It's a rare treat to be in a location where sight and sound of others are absent," notes one visitor to Stephen Phillips Memorial Preserve.
Budget-friendly options: Several sites near Eustis require no fees. "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," explains a camper at Myer's Lodge East.
Clean facilities: Where available, vault toilets are well-maintained. "Bathrooms and showers very clean. There's also a very nice pavilion if it's rainy," shares a visitor to Cupsuptic Lake Park & Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Most sites require navigating unpaved forest roads. "The Road is rough, but with care you can get there, just go slow," advises one camper about accessing tent sites.
Site availability: Competition for prime sites increases during summer weekends. "Stopped in to try and camp here, all the spots were taken. There were even people camping in their rooftop tents," reports a visitor to Round Barn Campsites.
Water sources: Natural sources can be unreliable depending on rainfall. "Water source for the site had dried up when we got there but there was just enough flow on a spring that crossed the trail about 100 ft north of the site," notes a visitor to Moose Falls Campsite.
Weather fluctuations: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "Gets windy. So be prepared," warns a camper describing conditions at Stephen Phillips Memorial Preserve.
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly sites: Developed campgrounds offer more amenities for children. "Great place for kids and families. Our site was right on the lake. Places to grill and dock your boat," recommends a visitor to Cupsuptic Lake Park & Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer children chances to observe wildlife. "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," reports a camper at Bigelow Col Campsite.
Island camping adventure: Renting both sites on an island creates a private family retreat. "Farrington island is my favorite spot. There are 2 sites. We always rent both so we are the only ones on the island. Great for dogs," advises a family camper at Stephen Phillips Memorial.
Sand beaches for play: Several locations feature natural sand beaches good for children. "Nice beach with little seating coves along the waters edge, offers a little privacy," notes a Cupsuptic Lake visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility clarification: Not all sites advertised for RVs can actually accommodate them. "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)," warns a visitor to Myer's Lodge East.
Seasonal site options: Several campgrounds offer longer-term arrangements. "There are a lot of seasonal campers. We stayed mid-week so we don't know how bust the weekends are," explains a camper who visited Cupsuptic Lake Park & Campground.
Road navigation: Forest roads present challenges for larger vehicles. "The road is rough, but with care you can get there, just go slow," shares a Round Barn visitor, suggesting careful driving for those with camper vans or small trailers.
Alternative accommodation options: For those unable to access tent sites with RVs, several areas offer glamping alternatives. "Tented here 30 years ago and in a motor home this year. It's a nice place on the lake," reports a Cupsuptic Lake camper who found suitable options.
