The Guilford, Maine area sits at approximately 350 feet above sea level in the foothills region of central Maine, creating a diverse camping landscape with both forest and waterway access. Camping sites near Guilford benefit from the town's location between Moosehead Lake and the Appalachian Trail corridor, providing numerous options for outdoor recreation. Summer temperatures typically range from 50°F at night to 80°F during peak daytime.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Visitors staying at Soul Retrieve-Hill can access Senebec Lake for angling experiences. "Soul Retrieve Hill is new to the Dyrt and has an awesome location near Senebec Lake & features a communal area so you can meet other campers," notes Jake C.
ATV trail access: The extensive trail network attracts off-road enthusiasts to the region. "We really enjoyed this campground. It is a fantastic place to stay and ATV," shares J B. about his experience at Balsam Woods. The campground provides dedicated ATV parking and direct trail access.
Hiking excursions: The Wilson Streams Area offers primitive camping with trail access. "Take time to hike the falls trail which is a 2.4-mile round trip, out and back trail. The trail follows water with a few nice swimming holes and crosses the AT," explains Nancy W. The Appalachian Trail crosses through this region, providing day-hiking opportunities.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention the cleanliness of bathhouses and amenities. "Large, clean shared bathrooms with good water pressure. Loads of amenities - general store with basic supplies, tons of activities for kids, pool, atv trail access and walking trails," writes Ingrid W. about her stay at Balsam Woods Campground.
Waterfront access: Lily Bay State Park receives high praise for its lake access. "The waterfront sites are amazing, especially the Penninsula in Rowell Cove. Bring your Kayaks and paddle to Sugar Island or explore the small islands in Lily Bay. Lots of swimming spots," recommends Michelle R. The park features a boat launch and swimming areas.
Winter recreation: While most campgrounds operate seasonally, the region offers year-round outdoor activities. "The gampground has the access to snowmobile trail in the winter as well as the ATV trails. It has it's own parking lot for your atvs," notes Brianna M. describing Balsam Woods Campground's cold-season options.
What you should know
Reservation timing: For prime sites, especially waterfront locations, book well in advance. "Most developed campgrounds operating from mid-May through early October. Reservations start early in the year online and waterfront sites sell out fast," notes J T. about Peaks-Kenny State Park.
Road conditions: Access to primitive sites requires careful driving. "There are six primitive first come, first serve campsites near the trailhead of Little Wilson Falls. As you enter the gravel road leading to the falls trailhead, there is an information board with registration instructions and rules and regulations," explains Nancy W. regarding Wilson Streams Area.
Fire regulations: Campfire rules vary by location. "You must obtain a fire permit before kindling a fire. (The information board has a number you can call to get a permit from the forest service)," advises Nancy W. about Wilson Streams Area. Some sites provide fire rings with cooking grates.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campsites provide dedicated children's areas. "It has a nice pool, clean showers, and access to trails around. If you're looking for something secluded this is not it, but it's a nice place," explains Sue H. about Balsam Woods.
Entertainment options: Moose Creek RV Resort offers numerous family-friendly amenities. "The amenities are all brand new and beautiful, including the pool side bar. The sides are spacey and range from field sites to wooded more private sites," writes Claire T. The resort features a 25 x 90' heated swimming pool and weekend activities.
Wildlife viewing: The region provides opportunities to observe native animals. "We had some very friendly chipmunks and a doe and fawn walk through our site," shares Ginnie R. about Lily Bay State Park. Early morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing times.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Consider topography when choosing camping locations. "The only critism we have is that a handful of sites are sloped and we would not be able to get our 45' motorhome level, luckily our site (#10) was perfectly level. Our favorite sites are 10 and 17–26 which are back-ins with privacy behind you and nice separation between sites," advises Nancy W. about Moosehead Family Campground.
Campground access: Several locations have limitations for larger vehicles. "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," cautions Nancy W. about Moosehead Family Campground.
Hookup availability: Services vary significantly between sites. "Prices during the summer season are $55 (for a standard site) and $60 for premium– which is a great price in this region of the country and for a nice campsite with lots of amenities," reports Nancy W. regarding Moose Creek RV Resort.
