Camping spots near Stetson, Maine offer a diverse range of experiences from rustic tent sites to full-service campgrounds with varying levels of amenities. Located in Penobscot County at an elevation of approximately 440 feet, the area experiences typical northern Maine seasonal patterns with warm summers (averaging 75-80°F in July) and cold winters that limit camping seasons. Most campgrounds in this region manage wet spring conditions with gravel pads and drainage systems at improved sites.
What to do
Golfing while camping: At Fogg Brook Resort in nearby Palmyra, campers can enjoy a round of golf during their stay. "The golf course was in Great shape. They had live music and lots of activities for all ages," reports camper Judy M., who visited during Labor Day weekend.
ATV trail access: Several campgrounds provide direct access to extensive ATV trail networks. "While it was not open in late September, the campground offers a nice pool, game room for the kids of all ages, a small camp store, and even has a snack bar and ice cream counter," notes a reviewer about Spacious Skies Balsam Woods.
Short drives to Bangor attractions: Camping in this area puts you within easy reach of Bangor's amenities. "You are about fifteen minutes to downtown Bangor which has some good restaurants, a casino, and a large outdoor concert venue which has big name musical acts throughout the summer," explains a camper staying at Pumpkin Patch RV Resort.
Walking trails exploration: Many campgrounds maintain walking paths. One visitor to Pumpkin Patch RV Resort noted "Snowmobile trails behind the campground lead to a walking path that connects the high school and elementary school for a pleasant walk in the woods."
What campers like
Quiet camping atmosphere: Campers consistently mention the peaceful environment as a major draw. "This place is excellent! The staff are friendly, the park is quiet, clean, well maintained and spacious," writes a reviewer about Pumpkin Patch RV Resort.
Spacious sites: Unlike some more crowded coastal options, campgrounds in this region often feature larger campsites. "Sites are large and level. Nice walking areas and close to dunkin!" shares Nicholas H. about Pumpkin Patch RV Resort.
Cleanliness and maintenance: Many reviews highlight the well-maintained facilities. "Sites are very clean, good space, well laid out and pretty level," reports a camper at Skowhegan Kennebec Valley KOA, which one visitor described as "a smaller campground, but still cute and very friendly."
Lakefront camping options: Sebasticook Lake Campground offers waterfront sites that appeal to many visitors. One camper noted the campground is "small family owned. The owners are outgoing and nice. The store offers handmade craft items with awesome prices and a small selection of take out foods."
What you should know
Varied road conditions: Interior campground roads can range from well-maintained to challenging. A reviewer at Sebasticook Lake Campground cautioned, "The roads are narrow and full of bumps, mud, etc."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies by location and carrier. "Our Verizon phone got good reception and our hot spot worked well. The campground wi-fi was decent at our site but that depends on where you are in the park and what time of day you are using it," explains a camper at Pumpkin Patch RV Resort.
Seasonal operations: The camping season in this region is limited. Paul Bunyan Campground operates from "Apr 15 to Oct 15," which is typical for the area, though some close earlier after Columbus Day.
Primitive options available: For those seeking a more rustic experience, Maine Star Campground offers basic sites. "Although the sites are primitive there is a fire-ring and bathroom," notes a reviewer about this property that features seven sites.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds cater more to families than others. "Tons of stuff to do- great playground, tractor rides. Store was well stocked," shares Ashley I. about Skowhegan Kennebec Valley KOA.
Consider campgrounds with pools: During summer months, swimming options are valuable. At Spacious Skies Balsam Woods, "The pool is great and playground will keep the small ones busy. They have plenty of room for kids to enjoy their bikes," according to a reviewer.
Check activity schedules: Many campgrounds offer scheduled events. "Recently added for the 2018 season where three to four brand new log cabins built to add to the previous ones already their... Their is also a wagon ride offered on the weekend throughout the day," notes Brianna M. about Spacious Skies Balsam Woods.
Adult-oriented vs. family campgrounds: Some properties cater more to adults than children. A reviewer noted that Pumpkin Patch RV Resort "caters more to adults and does not have too much for kids to do," which may be perfect for some families but limiting for others.
Tips from RVers
Check site levelness: Level sites mean less setup time and proper refrigerator function. "Most sites are level and there are long pull thrus so you don't have to unhitch if you are only staying one night," shares Nancy W. about Pumpkin Patch RV Resort.
Verify hookup placement: Well-positioned connections make setup easier. A reviewer at The Hawnets Nest highlights their A-Frame accommodations as "the perfect stop for adventure," offering an alternative for RVers seeking a break from their rigs.
Consider seasonal discounts: Several campgrounds offer reduced rates for longer stays. For Pumpkin Patch RV Resort, a reviewer noted "the price was decent for the area($46+tax/night) for a full hookup site but they also offer discounts for Good Sam/FMCA/military/Passport America and have better rates for weekly/monthly/seasonal stays."
Look for campgrounds with laundry facilities: For extended trips, laundry access is important. Pleasant Hill Campground offers laundry facilities, though one visitor mentioned "Amenities a little old and tired but staff friendly and pretty quiet at night."
