Campgrounds near Gilead, Maine feature dense woodlands at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet along the Androscoggin River valley. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 50-60°F at night. Many campsites in this region of western Maine provide access to the Evans Notch section of White Mountain National Forest, where camping is available from mid-May through mid-October.
What to do
Hiking on scenic trails: Basin Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring Evans Notch hiking options. One visitor noted, "Just a few miles north of Pinkham Notch visitor center, where trailhead for Mt Washington is and where you can grab a shower downstairs." Trails range from casual walks to challenging summit climbs.
Water activities on ponds and rivers: Crocker Pond offers swimming and fishing opportunities within walking distance of all campsites. "Beautiful views and access to pond. We got there at noon on Saturday and there were two sites left, we got one on the water, but it filled up right away," explained one camper who appreciated the water access.
Wildlife observation opportunities: The White Mountains region hosts diverse wildlife including moose and black bears. A visitor to Dolly Copp Campground reported, "There are signs to watch for moose throughout the forest as they are definitely around." Morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Mountain biking on forest trails: Several campgrounds connect to mountain biking networks. A visitor to Moose Brook State Park mentioned, "There are also many hiking trails in the park and a ton of great mountain biking terrain in the park and accessible from the park. The local Coos Cycling Club maintains the trails and is constantly improving and creating more terrain."
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road receives praise for its secluded sites. A camper observed, "8 huge, beautiful campsites in the heavily wooded Evans Notch section of The White Mountains National Forest. It's easy to forget there are other people camping on other sites because they're so far apart."
Clean facilities at established campgrounds: Visitors frequently comment on well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. A guest at Grafton Notch Campground stated, "The showers were hot and spacious. We were in Site 3 and it was perfectly distanced between the store and bathrooms."
Natural water features: Campsites with water access rank highly among visitors. At Town Hall Road Dispersed camping area, one reviewer shared, "We found our spot which had some river access and it was gorgeous. It had an above and below spot which hosted our two tents."
Well-designed fire rings and cooking areas: Many established campgrounds provide fire pits with cooking grates. A camper at Basin Campground noted, "The fireplaces have a cool double decker grill for cooking. It was very quiet as most people are there to hike and fish."
What you should know
Weather considerations: The White Mountains experience rapid weather changes. A camper at Timberland Campground noted, "Not allowed to bring your own wood for fire, they have enough onsite and it's priced fairly." Being prepared for temperature fluctuations is essential.
Wildlife safety protocols: Bear activity requires proper food storage. At Dolly Copp Campground, a ranger "confirmed that black bear are prominent and will venture across picnic tables and sites, so be certain to store food & toiletries safely per rules!"
Water availability varies by location: Some sites require water filtering from natural sources. A visitor to Little Larry Road mentioned, "Creek runs through road near sites good for getting water to filter or washing."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout the region. At White Birches Camping Park, a reviewer explained, "They require a $10 CASH deposit for access to the gate key which we weren't aware of when we got here and I couldn't find any mention of it on their website."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with activities: White Birches Camping Park offers family-friendly amenities. A visitor noted, "Quite a few activities for kids- bounce house, play ground and heated swimming pool. On Saturday nights around 7pm they blow up a projector for movie night which was a pleasant surprise."
Choose locations with swimming options: Many families appreciate water features for recreation. At Moose Brook State Park, a camper reported, "Perfect for family camping! Fishing, swimming, river walks, biking and movie nights!"
Consider proximity to attractions: Some campgrounds offer easy access to family destinations. A reviewer explained, "Less than 40 minutes in either direction are Story Land and Santa's Village, NH family destinations for generations."
Select sites with adequate shade: Wooded sites provide protection from summer sun. A visitor to White Birches Camping Park observed, "Tent sites are well spaced and almost all of them are in the shade which is a huge bonus!"
Tips from RVers
Check campground road access: Some forest roads have limitations. At Town Hall Road Dispersed, a camper shared, "The road was not as bad as I anticipated. There was room for my Jeep Grand Cherokee towing a squaredrop camper to pass the very few oncoming vehicles we encountered."
Be aware of electrical limitations: Power capacity varies between campgrounds. At Hastings Campground, a visitor noted, "The camp sites were all large, wide and flat. The grounds were pristine and well maintained."
Consider site privacy: Some campgrounds offer better spacing between RV sites. A reviewer at Grafton Notch Campground reported, "Sites are gravel, level, and have enough trees to afford privacy between sites."
Know your hookup requirements: Campgrounds offer varying levels of service. At Dolly Copp Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Tucked away in a beautiful area of the Whites this site is for all hikers. With trails leading to the Wild River Wilderness right from your campsite plus lots of other gems along the road."
