Dispersed camping near Frenchtown, Maine offers primitive backcountry experiences across a region with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 3,500 feet. The area's numerous ponds and mountain trails provide secluded camping options with limited amenities in a region known for its cold water lakes and dense northern forest. Water temperatures in most ponds remain cool even during summer months, rarely exceeding 70°F at the surface.
What to do
Paddle remote ponds: AMC Medawisla Lodge and Cabins provides access to Second Roach Pond where visitors can bring their own watercraft. "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 camper Roger F.
Explore wilderness trails: The Little Moose Public Lands contain multiple trail networks with minimal elevation change. At Rum Pond Campsite, "the Rum Pond loop trail is approximately 4.3 miles round-trip and definitely worth a hike. We saw massive amounts of moose droppings along the trail near Cranberry Pond and did see a large bull moose at the small pond," according to Nancy W.
Summit Mount Katahdin: Many campers use the region as a base for climbing Maine's highest peak. "You can start the 8 to 12-hour round trip to the summit of Mt. Katahdin from this campground, as it sits right at the base of the mountain. Or, you can choose from a variety of other trail options if a 4000 ft elevation gain isn't your thing," writes Shari G. about camping options in the area.
What campers like
Clear water swimming: The ponds throughout the region feature clean, cool water. At Shallow Bay, "It's a gorgeous campsite along the sandy shores of Lobster Lake, with plenty of room for a group of 8-10 people. Very easy access to the water for swimming, hauling gear up, etc," according to Shari G.
Wildlife sightings: The remote nature of tent camping in this region increases chances for animal encounters. Nancy W. reports from Big Moose Pond Campsite: "The beautiful campsites sit along the bank of Big Moose Pond in a nicely wooded and shaded area with plenty of room for tents. There are lots of trail in Little Moose Public Lands tract."
Rustic cooking options: Many sites have basic cooking facilities. "The campsite is a nice, large, cleared area surrounded by trees and with a nice wide access point to the pond. There is a nice large stone fire pit and a couple of hand-made tables which are helpful for preparing food, fish cleaning, etc. There are a couple of wire grates you can put over fire for cooking," notes Nancy W. about the Rum Pond facilities.
What you should know
Limited road access: Many camping areas require driving on unmaintained roads. At Upper Gravel Pit, "The road to the pit is gravel and bumpy but you don't need a 4-wheel drive or high clearance vehicle. The short road up to the camping area is quite steep with somewhat loose rocks," according to Nancy W.
Seasonal considerations: Maine's short summer season affects camping conditions. "2020, won't open until at least July. In 2019, it didn't open until late May because of a wet spring and trails were closed until mid-June because of snow cover on the trails," notes Jean C. about regional camping areas.
Payment systems: Some areas require cash payment at checkpoints. "You'll need to pay with cash or check. Fees are higher for out of state campers; rates are based off Maine minimum wage and campers pay both a day use and a camping fee per person, so the sites are not inexpensive," explains Jean C. about the KI-JO Mary forest camping system.
Tips for camping with families
Easy access sites for children: Choose locations with short hiking distances for young campers. "The Big Moose Pond campsite is located approximately 0.45 miles from the Little Moose Ponds Trailhead. The trail leading to the campsite starts with a downhill trek (of about 150 feet) before becoming relatively flat and an easy walk to the campsite," suggests Nancy W.
Activity options: Johnston Pond in KIJO Mary Forest offers diverse recreation. "I enjoyed paddling my kayak in the pond. Continue past the campsite area and you'll see a turnoff at the far end of the pond that takes you to the sandy beach/boat launch area. There were loons on the clear pond and also native trout," notes Jean C.
Food preparation: Plan meals carefully as food options are limited. "Your last stop for food and gas is in Millinocket, so be sure to stock up before you make your way to the park. Millinocket is about 18 miles from the main entrance to Baxter State Park," advises Shari G.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Large vehicles face limitations in this region. "Vehicle restrictions: single vehicle less than 28' or combined vehicle+ trailer less than 44'. Other restrictions include no bicycle, motorcycles, ATVs, or horses," explains Jean C. about camping at Big Pleasant Pond.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal before arriving. "There are no utilities, potable water, restroom, or garbage facilities so bring the water your need and carry out your trash. There is a dump station at the nearby Moosehead Family Campground," notes Nancy W. about dispersed camping options.
Local supply options: Limited supplies can be found at certain locations. "Downtown Greenville is a great little mountain town. If you are looking for great pizza, check out Jamo's and the Dockside has good food and a fun waterfront bar. Northwoods Outfitters in town is a great store with a great selection of outdoor gear," recommends Nancy W.
