Camping options near Fort Kent, Maine concentrate primarily in the Crown of Maine region where the Aroostook River winds through northern Maine's woodlands. The region experiences cold winters with annual snowfall often exceeding 100 inches, making most camping seasonal from May through October. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F with cooling nighttime temperatures even in July and August.
What to do
River adventures: The Aroostook River provides excellent kayaking and canoeing opportunities with rentals available at Arndt's Aroostook River Lodge & Campground. As camper Jean C. notes, "Swimming, kayaking, canoeing, ATVing, fishing, biking, and hunting are all activities to keep you busy. Don't have a canoe or kayak? They're available for rental at the campground. They can also provide a shuttle."
Hiking nearby summits: Explore local trails with modest elevation gains for panoramic views. Nancy W. recommends: "We liked Haystack Mountain which is just a short 10-15 minute walk to the top of the mountain with great views. The countryside is pretty to drive around and we found a huge field of blooming sunflowers that were stunning."
Local markets: Visit the farmers market in Presque Isle for regional products. According to campers, "There is a farmers market downtown that had lots of great produce and baked goods. This area is known for their potato industry so roadside stands selling 5 lbs. sacks were everywhere."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Birch Haven Campground offers generous camping spaces with lakeside views. Dick B. remarks that the campground features "Hillside lots under development" and maintains "clean" facilities including a laundromat and restrooms.
Well-maintained grounds: Campers appreciate the carefully tended grounds with actual grass rather than dirt or gravel. Nancy W. shares, "Can't say enough about how nice the grass and our site were. So many times patios are dusty, sandy, or hard gravel but this one was lush and nice and we really enjoyed sitting outside."
Walking trails: Access to adjacent trails makes campgrounds in the region popular for day hiking without driving. One visitor commented, "One of the pluses of this campground are the walking trails that are adjacent to the park. There is also a mowed path down to the Aroostook River."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: While some luxury glamping in Fort Kent, Maine area offers WiFi, coverage can be spotty. Jean C. notes that at Arndt's, "Verizon cell service was good; wifi is available near the camp office/store" but may not reach all campsites.
Hookup positioning: For RVers at some campgrounds, utility connections may require extra equipment. "For the back-in sites on the hill, the hookups are on the 'wrong' side. You'll either need to pull straight in or run the cords under the trailer," advises one camper.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds operate seasonally with specific opening dates. Mirjana Z., who rated Birch Haven Campground as "Cousy" (cozy) and "liked staying here," visited during the regular seasonal operation period.
Tips for camping with families
Interactive environment: Family-friendly campgrounds foster community connections. Alexis K. shares that at Arndt's, "Families here hang outside and interact with each other. Would definitely go back."
Activity options: Facilities often include recreational amenities beyond nature. Jean C. mentions, "A game room is also available with ping pong and foosball" providing entertainment options during inclement weather.
Small accommodations: For families not fully equipped for tent camping, some sites offer simple structures. At certain campgrounds, "Site 12 is a small bunkhouse" providing an entry-level glamping experience for families wanting more shelter than a tent.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Large RVs should prepare for tight access roads at some locations. Nancy W. cautions, "Campsites sits on top of a hill and there is a tight winding road that you must navigate to get up there. We were able to navigate it with our 45' RV and tow car but we had to go slow and take up the whole road."
Sewer connections: Plan for potential utility challenges with extra equipment. "Some of the sewer connections are not conveniently located so you may need extra sewer hose," advises an experienced RVer who was fortunate their "pull thru site was long enough that we could maneuver around to get close to the sewer without needing an extension."
Weekly rates: Extended stays can be economical for exploring the region thoroughly. RVers report reasonable rates with one noting the "price was great at $240/week for 50 amp full hook-up" representing good value for luxury glamping near Fort Kent.
