Farmington, Maine sits at an elevation of 420 feet in the Sandy River Valley. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with fall temperatures ranging from 30-60°F, significantly impacting camping accessibility. Most rv campgrounds near Farmington close by mid-October, though a handful remain open through early November depending on weather conditions.
What to do
Kayaking on the Androscoggin River: Access the river from Bethel Outdoor Adventure and Campground, which offers shuttle services for watercraft. "We used the campgrounds shuttle livery service to take our kayak and paddleboard up river for a leisurely float down the river so we could enjoy the scenery, have a picnic, and fish," notes a visitor.
Gold panning in river streams: Try your luck at Coos Canyon Campground where you can rent equipment nearby. "Rent a pan or sluice from the coos canyon rock and gem shop a 3 min walk from the office and pan for gold in the river right from the campground," suggests one camper who adds that "fishing, hiking, cliff jumping, and swimming can all be done with a quick walk all while staying in the campground."
ATV trail access: Several campgrounds near Farmington connect to extensive trail systems. A reviewer at Coos Canyon notes, "Great place to stay with ATV trails access right from your campsite. With the river right close by you can pan for gold."
What campers like
Lakefront sites for wildlife viewing: Augusta West Kampground offers waterfront camping with excellent nature observation opportunities. "This a beautiful spot, right on the Lake, listened to the loons, watched Canadian Geese with their goslings and saw a bald eagle swoop down and try to get something," reports one visitor.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas in lakes or rivers. At Jellystone Park at Androscoggin Lake, "You have a choice of pool or pond," according to one camper. Another adds that the campground "Has a lot of stuff for kids including playground, pool, water slides, canoeing, kayaking, mini golf and disc golf."
Free boat rentals: Some campgrounds offer complimentary watercraft usage. "One of the nice features is that they offer free use of their canoes/kayaks/peddle boats. You reserve a 2-hour time slot, and they provide you with the paddles and life jackets," reports a visitor to Two Rivers Campground.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely throughout the region. At Happy Horseshoe Campground in Lexington Township, a camper noted there was "No cell reception and wifi only available at the camp store." Similarly, a Coos Canyon visitor mentioned limited connectivity: "There was no cell service but wifi was available at the office."
Seasonal activities: Campgrounds often schedule regular events. Happy Horseshoe offers "planned activities and live entertainment on Saturday night. A warm community environment," according to one reviewer. At Jellystone Park, a visitor mentions they have "Entertainment on the weekends with local bands on Saturday nights."
Dump station policies: Rules vary significantly between campgrounds. At Martin Stream Campground, a visitor cautioned: "There are no sewer hookups (which is fine) but you are only allowed ONE use at dump station upon leaving the campground... I asked if I could pay for a second dump and it was $30."
Tips for camping with families
Check activity schedules: Martin Stream Campground offers regularly planned events for children. A seasonal camper shared, "The activities are well varied and everyone is encouraged to participate. However, if you just want to sit quietly, walk at your own pace, kayak or canoe in the stream that is always an option, too."
Consider fall-themed events: Several campgrounds host special autumn activities. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, "Every week is themed. My family goes every year for magic pumpkin week which includes TRICK OR TREATING IN SEPTEMBER. My nieces and nephews love it!"
Look for family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds offer facilities specifically designed for children. At Jellystone Park, one family noted it "Has a lot of stuff for kids including playground, pool, water slides, canoeing, kayaking, mini golf and disc golf. Great sites and plenty of them. Definitely a place to stay for a few days."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for river views: At Two Rivers Campground, waterfront sites offer premium views but have limitations. "Some of the RV sites are located parallel to the river so your patio is open to the river and you have an unobstructed water view. However, these sites are fairly short and would not accommodate larger RVs," notes a reviewer.
Site privacy varies: Many RV parks have mixed site layouts. At Augusta West Kampground, a visitor observed, "Most sites are packed in; close to others with not a lot of privacy. Overall the campground has some nice sites along the lake." Another mentioned, "We stayed in the 'new sites' adjacent to the entrance road; it was a long nice site with gravel but was not private."
Seasonal site considerations: Many campgrounds have significant seasonal occupancy. At Martin Stream, one visitor noted, "Nearly all sites are occupied with seasonals, right on top of each other. So it's like camping in a small city with a few trees overhead."
