Camping sites near Hampden, Maine range from lakeside locations to forested grounds within an hour's drive of Acadia National Park. Most Hampden area campgrounds sit at elevations between 100-400 feet above sea level, creating well-drained sites with fewer mosquitoes during summer months. Winter camping is limited in this region, with temperatures often dropping below freezing from November through April.
What to do
Snowmobile trails access: At Pumpkin Patch RV Resort in Hermon, campers can directly access wooded walking paths. "Snowmobile trails behind the campground lead to a walking path that connects the high school and elementary school for a pleasant walk in the woods," notes Rebecca Y.
Fishing opportunities: Balsam Cove Campground offers lakefront access for anglers and water enthusiasts. "Located on a beautiful lake, this campground is hard to beat for both activities and a sense of calm. Canoes and kayaks can be rented to enjoy the water and scenery," writes Travis A.
Historic site exploration: Fort Knox State Historic Site is just minutes from nearby campgrounds. "You are about fifteen minutes to downtown Bangor which has some good restaurants, a casino, and a large outdoor concert venue which has big name musical acts throughout the summer," says a Pumpkin Patch visitor.
What campers like
Level, spacious sites: Pleasant Hill Campground offers well-designed sites with good spacing. "Sites are spacious! Connections are well placed and in good repair. Most sites are pull-through. No huge hills, several trash dumpsters conveniently located," reports Sherry M.
Clean, quiet atmosphere: Campers consistently mention the tranquility at Balsam Cove Campground. "We stayed here one night in September in a Tuesday. Quiet, very few people. Had a non electric site without water and paid the same price as the state park in Camden. This place had much nicer showers and bathrooms," writes Cheryl K.
Dog-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds feature dedicated pet areas. At Pumpkin Patch RV Resort, a reviewer noted "a new dog exercise area which has water and toys and is long enough for our Labrador retriever to chase a ball."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds operate from May through mid-October, with peak crowds in July and August. "We stayed here in October, the week before they shut down for the season. Staff was friendly and super helpful," notes a Pumpkin Patch RV Resort reviewer.
Connectivity challenges: Cell and internet service varies significantly. At Pleasant Hill Campground: "Only real disappointment was lack of cell coverage for AT&T and if you want internet you must buy a package. Upside to purchased package - there are very little slow downs. We paid $69 for 3 devices for 30 days."
Airport noise consideration: Some campgrounds sit under flight paths. "Campground is quiet, except for the planes overhead as it is looking cated in the flight path for the local airport, but you soon tune this out," mentions a Pleasant Hill camper.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Paul Bunyan Campground in Bangor provides a welcoming environment for families. "That camping could be so easy and fun! The showers are nice and hot, it's quiet here at night, and it's such a chill atmosphere," says Tasha H.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer play areas. "We love the fresh water and BonFires. there is a playground and a common eating area. the kids feel like they are at summer camp while here," writes a Balsam Cove visitor.
Organized events: Bangor Holden KOA schedules family-focused activities. "Lots of organized activities and great Bingo on Saturday night. We did the pancake breakfast for donation, crafts, and wagon ride durring the day as well as enjoyed the well kept pool. The kids loved the playground and the ice cream window," notes Abby G.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When reserving, check site dimensions and hookup placements. "Most sites are level and there are long pull thrus so you don't have to unhitch if you are only staying one night," notes a reviewer at Searsport Shores Ocean Campground.
Seasonal discounts: Look for off-peak pricing and organization discounts. "The price was decent for the area($46+tax/night) for a full hookup site but they also offer discounts for Good Sam/FMCA/military/Passport America and have better rates for weekly/monthly/seasonal stays," explains an RV camper.
Road access considerations: Many campgrounds feature RV-friendly access routes. "The roads in and out and around the park are wide and easy to maneuver around. Our site was a full hook-up pull thru which was perfect for our one-night stay. All the hook-ups were well-placed and we did not need extensions to connect."
Scout
