Camping options around Hallowell, Maine range from basic tent sites to upscale waterfront accommodations. The region sits at the junction of Maine's coastal and inland environments, with elevations ranging from sea level to 800 feet at nearby peaks. Most campgrounds operate from May through October when temperatures typically range from 50-80°F, with July being the warmest month.
What to do
Water activities on Androscoggin Lake: Jellystone Park™ Androscoggin Lake offers extensive water recreation beyond swimming. "Amazing campground. Has a lot of stuff for kids including playground, pool, water slides, canoeing, kayaking, mini golf and disc golf. Great sites and plenty of them," notes Peter F.
Kayaking at various tide levels: Shore Hills Campground provides unique tidal water experiences. "The tides are crazy in Maine so be careful if you use the boat launch that you don't get stuck on a mud flat when the 9-11' tide disappears," cautions one reviewer. The campground has "a nice walkway onto a small island in the lake" for exploration.
Hiking nearby preserves: Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Campground connects to excellent trails. "Plenty to do between biking, kayaking, farm experience and visiting downtown Freeport close by," explains Michele S. Another camper adds that "there are tenting spots, camper spots and field spots. I recommend any with tree coverage."
Mountain exploration: Camden Hills State Park Campground offers direct access to mountain trails. "The top portion of the park, where all the campsites are, has direct access to Mount Megunticook, and Mount Battie, and offers easy to advanced hikes," reports Heather C. The park provides "miles and miles of hiking trails just outside our doorstep."
What campers like
Waterfront views: Many glamping sites near Hallowell feature premium waterfront locations. At Sennebec Lake Campground, "we had a site at the end that had wonderful views of the river and we could angle our camper so we had privacy," writes rachel S. The campground offers "a blend of relaxation and adventure for the kiddos."
Farm-to-table experiences: Local food options enhance glamping near Hallowell. "This campground is located on an organic dairy farm. There is a farm cafe on site with local food. We loved that!" exclaims Tonya M. about Wolfe's Neck. The farm is "open to the public, free of charge every day."
Themed events and activities: Structured entertainment appeals to many glampers. At Beaver Brook Campground, "Beaver Brook in Monmouth Maine is a must stay if you have kids from babies to teens... live entertainment with local bands on Saturday nights, an adult only swim nightly... candy bar bingo (where you can play bingo WITH your kids and was quite fun)."
Well-stocked camp stores: Most luxury campsites maintain comprehensive supplies. "People here are so nice an will help u with whatever u need! They deliver fire to ur spot an everything! There's a store with ice an food an other camping supplies even stuff for trailer repairs!" notes Shannon M.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Most glamping accommodations near Hallowell require advance booking. At Camden Hills State Park, "reservations can be made on-line but only about half of the sites are reservable leaving the other half for walk-ups," explains Nancy W. During summer, reservations are essential.
Seasonal operations: The camping season typically runs May through October. Sennebec Lake Campground has "new glamping tents near the beach" with "new management" as of 2022 making "a lot of new improvements and more coming."
Tide considerations: Coastal glamping sites experience significant tidal changes. "The river is tidal and so unless you want to wade threw mud there is not access beyond a couple hours around high tide," explains rachel S. about Shore Hills Campground.
Variable Wi-Fi quality: Internet connectivity differs between sites. At Birches Lakeside Campground, one reviewer notes they offer "water activists, boating, fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking... This family friendly campground offers theme weekends and scheduled actives for Adults and kids." But connectivity may be limited in some areas.
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity-focused campgrounds: Choose sites with structured entertainment. "Our family has been going annually for the last five years... spent our days in the lake, pool, or just hanging out while our kids (ranging from 8-12) rode their bikes, made friends at the playground or participated in the activities that the camp had to offer," recommends Angela M. about Beaver Brook.
Select sites with playground access: Many family-friendly glamping options include play areas. At Duck Puddle Campground, "Great beach for swimming, playground for playing. We have already booked our next trip in a few weeks!" shares Andrew G.
Consider water safety: Waterfront sites require supervision. "Really cute campground. Its perfect if you have a motor boat, pontoon, jetskii, or even a kayak! I wouldn't suggest learned to paddle board on the lake but its still a great spot for experienced paddleboarders," notes Samantha N.
Book sites away from main roads: For families with young children, location within campgrounds matters. "Sites T8, T9, T10 are best if you're tent camping. While all tent sites are tightly spaced next to one another, these 3 provide the most shade and privacy of the bunch," recommends Rachel P.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Not all glamping sites accommodate larger rigs. At Chewonki Campground, "We stayed in a large tent site. Very quiet and clean... Pull in full hook up site. Coin operated shower. Clean and very well maintained," reports Suzanne S.
Consider seasonal rentals: For frequent visitors, seasonal options exist. "My family is considering a seasonal here!" notes Samantha N. about Birches Lakeside Campground, which offers "a great camp store and Cafe serving sandwiches, fried foods, fresh dough pizza and other specials."
Plan for leveling needs: Site terrain varies throughout the region. At Sennebec Lake Campground, "We have a 35ft RV, and we faced no issues getting in and out of the property and the sites across the water were level, with no extra leveling needed," reports Jason G.
Reserve hookup sites early: Limited full-hookup sites require advance planning. "Our site had a wooden deck with a picnic table on it. The deck was nice but I had to be careful where I parked so my steps cleared the porch. Each site has its own garbage can which I super convenient," notes a reviewer at Shore Hills Campground.
