Moosehead Lake, Maine's largest lake with 400 miles of shoreline, serves as the backdrop for camping near Greenville Junction. The region sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation with temperature swings from daytime highs in the 70s to nighttime lows in the 50s during summer. Most campgrounds in the area operate from mid-May through October, with limited winter accommodations at some locations.
What to do
Hiking Mt. Kineo: Access this spectacular hike via ferry from Rockwood for panoramic lake views. "There are so many outdoor activities between hiking, fishing, paddling, and just enjoying the natural beauty," noted one visitor to The Birches Resort, where boat rentals and aerial sightseeing via seaplane are available.
Fly fishing spots: The nearby Kennebec River's east outlet is renowned for quality fishing. "Just a short drive away is the east outlet of the Kennebec River which is renowned for its fly fishing," reports a camper at Moosehead Family Campground.
Moose viewing tours: Book guided wildlife excursions through local operators. "There is no cell service. WiFi only at the store during generator hours. This is a place to go to disconnect and be with family, friends, nature," notes a visitor to Seboomook Wilderness Campground, highlighting the remote wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Lakeside access: Many sites offer direct water access, particularly valued by paddlers. "There are a few times in your travels when you find someplace you never want to leave. The Birches Resort and Campground in Rockwood, Maine was that slice of paradise we absolutely loved," shares one camper, describing the waterfront experience.
Wildlife encounters: Loons, eagles, moose and deer frequent the area. "We had Loons with babies that swam by and we love listening to them. The bullfrogs chimed in too. Our neighbors were catching pollywogs, big ones with legs," writes a visitor to Seboomook Wilderness Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: Minimal light pollution enables spectacular night sky viewing. "It is beyond spectacularly beautiful -- the water is crystal clear, the mountains in the distance, the loons, eagles, deer, moose AND THE STARS!!! Wow!! I get goosebumps now just remembering how incredible the night sky looked," explains a Seboomook Wilderness camper.
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Some campgrounds require driving on unpaved logging roads. "The roads have been bad in the past but are now greatly improved. No problem bringing your camper in," notes a visitor to Seboomook Wilderness Campground, while another mentions "You need to be adventurous for the drive in there is a 33 mile dirt road to get to Seboomook Wilderness campground."
Limited cell service: Many locations have minimal connectivity by design. At Northeast Whitewater Lodge, "There is no water or port-a-potties at camping sites. One bathhouse is located adjacent to the main building and there is a dish washing station located there as well," a camper reports, highlighting the rustic accommodations.
Generator limitations: Some campgrounds run generators only during specific hours. "Considering the wilderness location, the facilities are great. Water at the sites all the time, electricity during generator hours which are plenty to keep everything charged," explains a Seboomook Wilderness camper.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Several campgrounds offer sandy shorelines ideal for children. At Peaks-Kenny State Park, "There are no water sites but there is a sandy beach, plenty of picnic tables and grills, group camping and day use areas. Clean updated bathrooms and a handful of water and electric sites," reports one family visitor.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds provide dedicated play areas for children. "Spacious campsites with plenty of privacy. A short walk down to the beach area which offers a playground, cookout spots, and canoe rentals," notes a visitor to Peaks-Kenny State Park.
Swimming conditions: Lake waters warm gradually throughout summer. At Cathedral Pines Campground, "Large spacious camp sites in the trees. Very quiet family campground with beautiful views of flagstaff lake. Boat launch is prefect we're able to store our kayaks right at the beach," a family camper shares.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require additional equipment for leveling. "Our site (#25) was a long pull thru that sloped down in the front and took a bit for us to get level and our front steps were pretty high off the ground," reports an RVer at Moosehead Family Campground.
Tight navigation: Large rigs may find some campgrounds challenging. "Small campground with 36 RV and tent sites located just a couple of miles from downtown Greenville. The owners are very nice and helpful and are always busy working in the campground. The campground has lots of large trees and narrow roads which make it very difficult for big rigs," explains a Moosehead Family Campground visitor with a 45-foot motorhome.
Hookup placement: Utility connections may require extra-long cords and hoses. At Wilderness Edge Campground, "Many of the RV sites will require larger units to park parallel to the road. Bring longer power cords and hoses to ensure it will reach your rig because they may be on the 'wrong' site of your connections depending on how you park," advises an experienced RVer.
