Camping spots near Frenchtown, Maine provide access to the central Maine wilderness at an elevation around 1,000-1,500 feet above sea level. The region experiences temperatures that can drop below 50°F even in summer months, with September and October bringing early frosts. Most primitive sites in the area lack potable water, requiring visitors to filter from streams or bring their own supply.
What to do
Kayak fishing on Second Roach Pond: AMC's Medawisla Lodge and Cabins offers free dispersed camping with access to excellent fishing. "Beautiful waterfront sites - bring your own kayak/canoe/SUP and you can paddle over to the main lodge or explore the lake while listening to the loons call. Moose sitings are frequent too," notes Roger F.
Visit the B-52 crash site memorial: Located near Elephant Mountain, this historical site provides a somber look at Maine history. "Elephant Mountain and see the site of the B-52 crash," suggests Michelle R. from Lily Bay State Park, who adds it's one of several "once relatively 'secret' spots" now marked with blue tourist information signs.
Explore the 100-Mile Wilderness: The region contains part of Maine's designated Dark Sky Preserve. As one camper at Medawisla explains, "My buddy immediately called them Narnia. I can't disagree!" The wilderness area offers stargazing opportunities rarely found in the eastern United States.
What campers like
Private waterfront access: Rowell Cove Campground campers appreciate being able to launch directly from their sites. "Site 16 on the water you can launch your kayak from the site," notes a camper, highlighting the convenience of waterfront camping.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area is known for moose sightings. One camper at Pleasant River reported, "We were seeking a place to stay 1 night just before embarking on a backpacking trip... We even were visited by a moose and her calf one evening!"
Rustic camping experience: Many campers value the remote feeling. "It's a long, bumpy, and dusty road to basically an 18-site parking lot. The only amenity is a pit toilet (which is fine, just noting). Great for kayaking and listening to loons," writes Meghan B. about Cowan Cove, capturing the primitive appeal.
What you should know
Fire permit requirements: Many sites have existing fire rings but still require permits. At Pleasant River, each site comes with "a picnic table and fire ring, with access to a clean latrine (with TP!)." Firewood is available for purchase at access gates.
Road conditions can be challenging: Many campgrounds are accessed via logging roads. A reviewer from Lazy Tom Bog Primitive Campsite notes: "Dirt road to get to the spot right after the bridge on the right for only 5 minutes at most."
Seasonal availability varies: Most primitive sites are open May through October, weather permitting. As Carol C. from Moose Creek RV Resort explains, "I went in mid Oct so there were no crowds but they had a beautiful pool that was closed."
Gate fees apply: Access to many wilderness areas requires payment. One camper at Pleasant River explains, "Located in the Maine North Woods, getting here is quite a journey... you have to pay to get through the gate at Katahdin Iron Works, pay a daily access fee, and daily camping fee."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Moosehead Family Campground offers recreation options close to town. "There is a playground for kids and plenty of room at each site for them to play," notes Dennis Q., who adds it's "the cleanest bathroom/shower house I've seen."
Consider guided activities: Some lodges offer structured programs for younger campers. At Medawisla Lodge, "guided hikes, fishing, kids activities (fee-based services)" are available according to one reviewer.
Pack warm clothing regardless of season: Even summer nights get cold. "The campground is heavily treed and gets pretty dark so a flashlight or headlamp is a good thing to bring along," advises Nancy W. about Lily Bay State Park.
Reserve waterfront sites early: The best family-friendly spots book quickly. "Reservations start early in the year online and waterfront sites sell out fast," warns J T. from Lily Bay State Park.
Tips from RVers
Check site length and access carefully: Moose Creek RV Resort offers modern amenities. "All campsites and roads are gravel with a mix of pull-thrus and back-ins... the only criticism we have is that a handful of sites are sloped and we would not be able to get our 45' motorhome level," notes Nancy W.
Consider water and dump station logistics: Most primitive sites lack hookups. At Moosehead Family Campground, "No sewer at any sites but there is a dump station and they offer a pump out service for $20," explains a reviewer who found the dump station difficult to access with a large rig.
Watch for low-hanging branches: Tree clearance can be an issue. As one RVer reported, "The roads were so tight that it would have been difficult for us to pull into it and our RV would have scrapped lots of trees."
Generator restrictions vary: Some campgrounds prohibit generators entirely while others have designated quiet hours. "Unfortunately, family in the neighboring site ran their generator from 8am-8pm. Please don't go to rustic campgrounds if you want electricity all day," notes one frustrated camper at Rowell Cove.
