Gilead camping options range from primitive forest sites to luxury cabins within the White Mountain National Forest. Located at approximately 700 feet elevation in western Maine's mountain valleys, the area experiences dramatic temperature variations with summer nights often dropping below 50°F even when daytime temperatures reach 80°F. Many campgrounds open seasonally from May through October, with limited winter camping at sites like Barnes Field Campground.
What to do
Hiking the Presidential Range: Barnes Field Campground offers exceptional access to northern Presidential Range trails. "This site is ideal if you hike the Presidential in the White Mountains. Amenities are basic...water pump and pit toilet," notes a visitor who appreciated the prime location for mountain expeditions.
Canoe and kayak rentals: Mollidgewock State Park Campground provides on-site boat rentals for exploring the Androscoggin River. According to one camper, "They rent kayaks/canoes on the property which was fun (saw a bald eagle)," making it convenient for water-based wildlife viewing without needing to bring your own equipment.
Winter outdoor sports: Milan Hill State Park Campground remains accessible year-round with activities shifting seasonally. "Awesome park in northern NH. Lots of hiking trails and a great firetower in the park. Not too busy either!" mentions one visitor who enjoyed the less crowded atmosphere.
Moose viewing excursions: The Errol area near Mollidgewock State Park Campground offers prime wildlife watching. "Mollidgewock State Park, overlooking the Androscoggin River, is embedded in the beautiful and tranquil scenery that makes up what I would call, the moose capital of NH," reports one camper who spotted moose along Route 16.
What campers like
Private camping spaces: Jefferson Campground provides secluded sites despite full amenities. One visitor noted, "The RV sites have full hookups and the tent area is tucked into a wooded area with wild apple trees," highlighting the natural setting that maintains privacy.
River swimming spots: Glen Ellis Family Campground offers direct access to the Saco River. A camper shared, "Located between the Ellis River and the Saco River, this campground offers so many fantastic amenities. One of the biggest ones that we took lots of advantage of is the swimming and tubing on the Saco River."
Upgraded glamping structures: Lakeside Pines Campground provides cabin options for luxury camping near Gilead. "We spent the weekend in the bunkhouse. Had an amazing time! Can't wait to return!" wrote one visitor who enjoyed the elevated glamping experience on Long Lake.
Clean facilities: The Moose Brook area maintains high standards for public facilities. A camper at Jefferson Campground reported, "The RV sites have full hookups and the tent area is tucked into a wooded area with wild apple trees. There is onsite laundry, a pool and a playground. WiFi and Verizon signal were good."
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: Most campgrounds in the Gilead region have limited operating seasons. Barnes Field Campground is an exception, with a visitor noting, "This campground is open in winter (one of the few) on a first come, first serve basis for those hearty enough to brave the frigid New England winter!"
Wildlife precautions required: Bears are active throughout the region. At Glen Ellis, a camper warned, "Remember you are in the mountains... you will see wildlife. Respect nature and heed the warnings of leaving food out on your campsite! It was our first time seeing a black bear walking around."
Primitive facilities at some sites: Barnes Field Campground offers minimal amenities. "There are vault toilets and hand pumps for potable water. There are wooded, well shaded sites and others that are a bit more open," explains a reviewer who appreciated the rustic camping experience.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds sit close to highways. A Mollidgewock visitor cautioned, "The main bummer was the proximity to a road -- the road noise was pretty significant (you could also hear ATVs behind the road). I think it would have been less noisy further in the campground (higher-numbered sites) where the river noises were louder."
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused sites: Papoose Pond Family Campground specializes in family programming. "Went to Papoose over Memorial weekend with the family and had a blast! Staff was super friendly, tons of activities for kids and adults, nightly entertainment, and lots more! Played parents VS kids kickball and laughed so hard," shared one family.
Beach access priority: When glamping with children near Gilead, prioritize waterfront sites. A Lakeside Pines camper advised, "We had a beautiful waterfront campsite (Site 113). The lake is gorgeous. Rocks make direct access to the water from the site difficult, but there is a beach for water access not too far away."
Bathroom proximity: Consider site location relative to facilities. One Eastern Slope visitor noted, "Bath house was extremely clean and tidy. Staff was friendly and helpful. Pool was closed but river access and stores were open and great. Quiet and friendly. Great for the family fun."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. A Mollidgewock camper shared, "I was here in October and it was COLD, so be prepared for all kinds of weather," emphasizing the importance of packing for temperature swings even during summer camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Site selection concerns: Jefferson Campground works well for larger rigs with planning. "I originally chose a site that was a bit too small to properly unhook the trailer but staff helped me get a better location. Site 17 was too tight for 44 ft total length. Switched to site 5 pull through," explained one RVer who benefited from staff assistance.
Tight turning radius: Many campgrounds have narrow access roads. A Lakeside Pines visitor cautioned, "The road is tight so be prepared to drive close to trees," highlighting the navigation challenges for larger vehicles in wooded settings.
Limited dump stations: Plan waste management carefully. A visitor to Glen Ellis noted, "This spot was located near Mt. Washington, which was what we needed... It's fine, full hookups, decent in and out, probably great views when it isn't foggy."
Campground layout considerations: Most RV sites in the region require advance planning. At Eastern Slope, a camper warned, "Sites are really close together and hard to maneuver a RV into. Staff are wonderful and very nice."
