Western Maine's Hanover region sits at approximately 700 feet elevation where the Androscoggin River cuts through rolling hills and dense forests. Summer temperatures range from 55-75°F with cooler nights, while fall brings temperatures dropping into the 40s by October. Many campsites in this area offer river access with recreational opportunities including gold panning, ATV trails, and fishing without leaving the campgrounds.
What to do
Gold panning opportunities: At Coos Canyon Campground and Cabins, campers can try their luck finding gold. "Rent a pan or sluice from the coos canyon rock and gem shop a 3 min walk from the office and pan for gold in the river right from the campground!" reports one visitor who enjoyed multiple outdoor activities during their stay.
ATV trail riding: Direct trail access is available at several campgrounds near Hanover. "Great place to stay with ATV trails access right from your campsite. With the river right close by you can pan for gold," notes a reviewer at Coos Canyon. The trail systems connect multiple towns throughout the region, with some campgrounds offering registration services.
Water recreation: Swimming holes and paddling opportunities abound in the region. Bethel Outdoor Adventure and Campground provides river rentals with shuttle service. "The campground rents kayaks, canoes, and tubes and has a shuttle service that will take you up river for so you can float back to the campground," explains one reviewer who used the livery service for their own equipment.
Nearby hiking: Within short driving distance of Hanover, several trails offer day hiking opportunities. "Take a walk over to Milan Hill SP and climb the fire tower!" suggests one camper who stayed at a nearby RV park. Sunday River ski area, approximately 10 miles from Hanover, offers summer chair lift rides to access mountain hiking trails.
What campers like
River access: Many campers highlight the proximity to water as a key advantage. At Stony Brook Recreation and Campground, the convenient location provides good access to nearby natural areas. "Very close to grafton state park," notes one reviewer who enjoyed the campground's pool and local exploration opportunities.
Family activities: Campgrounds in the Hanover area typically offer recreational facilities beyond just campsites. "Nice pool, fun rec room area (we learned how to play shuffleboard!) We were the 2nd tiny house there!" shares one family who stayed at Stony Brook Recreation and Campground.
Spacious sites: Compared to more crowded tourist areas, Hanover area campgrounds often provide roomier accommodations. "Campground has a lot of wide open space, and room between spots. Facilities were clean. Kids had fun at playground and playing games," reports a visitor to Stony Brook, highlighting the family-friendly layout.
Unique accommodations: Beyond standard tent and RV sites, several campgrounds offer alternative lodging. Papoose Pond Family Campground provides specialized sites with cooking facilities: "We stay in an HHK which is a site that has its own electric stove, kitchen sink, covered picnic table, and small bathroom in the back! It's definitely more lux than a standard site."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds in the region operate from May through October, with some closing earlier. "Fall camping in western Maine requires advance planning as many RV parks close by mid-October," note experienced campers. Augusta West Kampground specifically operates "May 15 to September 30" according to their information.
Variable cell coverage: Mobile phone service can be inconsistent across the region. "No cell reception and wifi only available at the camp store," mentions one Coos Canyon visitor. Many campgrounds offer limited WiFi near the office or store, but connectivity diminishes throughout the property.
Site selection considerations: When booking, review site maps carefully as layouts vary significantly. "Sites are a little close to each other, but they're very long," notes one camper at Stony Brook, while another visitor to Bethel Outdoor Adventure mentions "Not all sites are level" in their review.
Rural location logistics: While Hanover offers natural beauty, it means limited services. The nearest full grocery stores and major supplies are in Bethel (10 miles) or Rumford (15 miles). "If you've forgotten something, Berlin is nearby and Gorham offers a Walmart Supercenter," suggests one camper describing the regional options.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Naples Campground provides structured entertainment for various ages. "Grounds are well maintained and it's location is close to the action if you want to rent boat/jet ski. Kids loved the water slides, crafts and pool," shares one family who enjoyed the organized programming.
Budget stretching: Campgrounds with included amenities provide better value for family trips. "This place is amazing!! Nice tent sites. RV sites. There are electric and water hook ups. Nice pool and clean bathrooms with showers!! Playground for the kids and a rec hall with games and TV," reports a visitor who appreciated Stony Brook's many included facilities.
Site selection for privacy: For families wanting more space, choosing the right campground area matters. At Papoose Pond, "We had an amazing first camping experience for our 2 year old here! The campsite was large and private with good distance between the next sites. We were on the pool/rec hall side and it definitely seemed less condensed over there than the pond side."
Special events: Scheduled activities enhance family camping experiences. "Tuesday trivia, Wednesday beach party, Thursday dance party, and Friday karaoke- the latter being the most fun! There are so many things for kids to do throughout as well," explains a regular visitor to Papoose Pond who returns annually.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: RV campgrounds in Hanover, Maine and surrounding areas present varying challenges for larger rigs. "We found it difficult to get into because of the tight roads and dangling tree limbs," reports an RVer with a 45-foot motorhome who stayed at Bethel Outdoor Adventure. Scout routes carefully before committing.
Utility placement: Note that hookup locations vary significantly by site. "Our sewer was uphill at our site which is a big pet peeve of ours and super annoying when it comes to empty the tanks," mentions an RVer who stayed at Bethel, highlighting practical considerations beyond just connection availability.
Year-round options: While most rv campgrounds near Hanover close seasonally, limited year-round camping exists. "I am currently living all year round at Stony Brook Campgrounds. Showers clean, bathrooms clean. Very nice pool. Basketball and volleyball. RV pull thru sites and tents and cabins as well," notes a long-term resident.
Media access: Entertainment options can be limited. "The wifi at our site was horrible and we never used it. There is no cable and we were not able to pick up any over-the-air television channels," shares an RVer who eventually set up a portable satellite receiver after several days of adjustments.