The Hermon region features moderate hills and mixed forest terrain at approximately 130 feet elevation, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-80°F. Camping options near Hermon include traditional campsites, upscale glamping accommodations, and waterfront locations along Branch Lake and the Penobscot River. Multiple campgrounds operate seasonally from May through mid-October with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Kayaking on Branch Lake: Branch Lake offers 26.5 miles of shoreline with a maximum depth of 124 feet, perfect for paddling. At Branch Lake Camping area, waterfront sites provide direct water access. "We pulled down to our site right on the water. The view was amazing and it wasn't too windy for our tents. Kayaking on the lake was an added bonus," shares James L.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds near Hermon offer access to productive fishing waters. Local lakes and rivers contain bass, trout, and other freshwater species. Paul Bunyan Campground provides a convenient base for anglers. One first-time camper reported, "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."
Local exploration: Campgrounds near Hermon serve as ideal bases for exploring nearby towns. "Close to Belfast and the Fort Knox," notes a visitor to Searsport Shores, adding that the campground features "gardens with scattered art, goats, and lots of little activities like horseshoes, giant connect four games, hammock etc."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the cleanliness of bathhouses in the area. At Bangor Holden KOA, guests appreciate the well-maintained amenities. "Quick walk to bathrooms & showers, which are very clean. Held lots of activities over the weekend, busy crowd. Got a nice secluded tent space," reports Linsey S.
Family activities: Many local campgrounds offer organized events for all ages. "We booked Holden KOA for a quick weekend getaway. The campground was clean and very family oriented. Lots of organized activities and great Bingo on Saturday night. We did the pancake breakfast for donation, crafts, and wagon ride during the day," says Abby G.
Waterfront access: Sites with water views are highly valued by visitors to Parks Pond Campground. "Beautiful area. My spot was right next to road. I honestly didn't notice road throughout the night. Water rentals kayaks etc were very reasonable. Staff was very nice," shares Eric H.
What you should know
Site spacing varies: Campground density differs significantly across the region. Some offer more privacy than others. "The sites were so close together and it was very crowded. Everyone was really packed in, with no buffer between sites," notes one KOA visitor, while others mention more spacious options at different campgrounds.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds near Hermon operate from May through mid-October. Cold River Campground runs from May 1 to October 31, offering a slightly longer season than some neighbors. Newport's Sebasticook Lake Campground operates from May 11 to October 7.
Reservation recommendations: Popular sites book quickly during peak summer months. "It was a little intimidating being our first time camping but we checked in and rolled down to our site right on the water," reports a Branch Lake visitor, noting that many seasonal campers were already established.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Children particularly enjoy campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "They have a playground, a nice area to keep kayaks if your not on the water. There are adirondack chairs along the beach and the nice grassy area overlooking the lake," describes a visitor to Branch Lake Camping area.
Kid-friendly activities: Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA offers daily events specifically for children. "My daughter begs to camp here. As with any KOA they have lots of activities throughout the day for families, and a pool, but she loves the ice pop contest. If you find a painted rock and bring it to the office you get a free ice pop," explains Melissa N.
Comfortable glamping options: For families new to glamping in Hermon, Maine, several campgrounds offer comfortable alternatives to traditional tenting. Parks Pond Campground provides glamping accommodations with basic amenities that appeal to families. One visitor to the area noted, "We borrowed a friend's motor home and pulled in here and immediately wanted to stay an extra day. Nice long term campers, incredibly clean bath house and the owners were wonderful."
Tips from RVers
Dump stations: Most campgrounds near Hermon offer either full hookups or dump station access. Branch Lake provides a convenient service: "They offer a pump out service twice a week which is nice," reports a long-term visitor who appreciated not having to move their rig.
Site leveling: Some campgrounds require additional work to level RVs. "The site was level and had some shade. If you have a small camper you can pull in forward and your door opens to the water," notes a Branch Lake visitor, adding, "I couldn't pull in I had to back in yet having the dinette overlooking the lake was nice."
Mobile repair options: RV breakdowns can happen, and local resources exist. A Searsport Shores Ocean Campground visitor shares valuable information: "We found a great mobile Repairman that fixed our slide out while we were there. His name is Chris Burbelo his number is (207) 322-4526. He does side work on his spare time."
