Camping around Greenville, Maine offers experiences from primitive sites to luxury accommodations at elevations ranging from 1,023 feet at Moosehead Lake to over 4,000 feet in nearby mountain ranges. The region experiences short summers with July temperatures averaging 67°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing by October. Weather conditions can change rapidly, requiring campers to pack layers even during summer months.
What to Do
Water activities on Moosehead Lake: Located at Moosehead Family Campground, you can enjoy kayaking, fishing, and swimming with convenient access. "My wife and I went up during Columbus Day weekend for some fall fishing and leaf peeping. We had a tent site that had tons of room," notes Matthew H.
Hiking at Peaks-Kenny State Park: The park offers several trails with varying difficulty levels around Sebec Lake. "There are two hiking trails that are fun but lack a scenic view; one challenging, one easy," explains Michelle R. Courtney P. adds, "The park also offers several hikes around the lake and camping area."
Wildlife viewing tours: For guaranteed moose sightings, book a guided tour. At Northeast Whitewater Lodge, "This is a mix of guide service, moose viewing tours, whitewater rafting, and camping," according to Nancy W., who notes they offer "inflatable kayaks if you are feeling adventurous."
Whitewater rafting: Multiple outfitters offer experiences for different skill levels. "Drive an hour and you can go white-water rafting," mentions Jean C. from Moosehead Family Campground.
What Campers Like
Waterfront access: Many sites offer direct lake views or access. At The Birches Resort, Meghan B. reports, "My husband and I camped at one of three tent sites that are located right on the lake."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and shower facilities. Tammie F. mentions that Moosehead Family Campground offers "Free hot showers" and "Clean and well stocked store for your camping emergency supplies and memorabilia."
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds feature large, well-separated campsites. At Peaks-Kenny State Park, Celeste C. notes, "The sites are spacious and there is space between them."
Wildlife encounters: Listen for loons and watch for moose. "The loons and owls call at night - so peaceful! Expect deer to visit!" shares Heidi R. about Peaks-Kenny State Park.
What You Should Know
Remote locations require preparation: Many campgrounds are accessed via dirt roads. At Seboomook Wilderness Campground, Jillian M. warns, "The road in can be rough at times. Real rough at other times. And occasionally smooth sailing."
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty or no coverage. WhiteSpruce D. notes about Seboomook, "Considering the wilderness location, the facilities are great."
Seasonal considerations: The camping season is short, typically May through October. Jeff K. suggests, "July and August or later are the best times. No horse and moose flies!"
Reservation policies vary: Some sites require advance booking while others are first-come, first-served. For Wilderness Edge Campground, Jean C. advises, "Reservations open a year in advance."
Tips for Camping with Families
Shallow swimming areas: Look for gradual water entry points for safer swimming. Scott M. describes Seboomook: "The water is very shallow and the depth increases very slowly. We could walk about 100 feet before the water was chest high. This would be perfect for kids!"
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play equipment. Dennis Q. from Moosehead Family Campground shares, "There is a playground for kids and plenty of room at each site for them to play."
Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds offer ranger programs and nature activities. At Cathedral Pines Campground, Ken B. reports sites have "spectacular views" where families can spot "loons and bald eagles on the lake daily."
Kid-friendly glamping close to Greenville, Maine: For families wanting comfort with nature access, glamping yurts offer a solution. Nancy W. notes about Northeast Whitewater Lodge: "There are six yurts all with varying configurations, sleeping anywhere from 1-2 people (with king sized bed) up to up to six people (with bunk beds)."
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Some campgrounds have tight turns or low-hanging branches. Nancy W. warns about Moosehead Family Campground, "The back section of the park was way too tight for us to navigate" in their 45' motorhome.
Hookup locations: Check where utilities are positioned at your site. At Wilderness Edge Campground, Jean C. advises, "Bring longer power cords and hoses to ensure it will reach your rig because they may be on the 'wrong' side of your connections depending on how you park."
Generator restrictions: Many campgrounds limit generator hours. At Seboomook, B M. notes, "We had water & electric yet you only have electric when the generators run that power the campground."
Limited dump stations: Not all campgrounds offer sewer hookups. Nancy W. explains that at Moosehead Family Campground, "There's no sewer at any sites but there is a dump station and they offer a pump out service for $20."