Best Campgrounds near Jackman, ME

Camping options around Jackman, Maine range from established campgrounds to remote boat-in sites along the Moose River and surrounding ponds. Moose River Campground provides developed sites with amenities including electric hookups, showers, and toilets from May 15 to October 15. For more primitive experiences, the region includes several boat-accessible campsites along the Moose Bow Loop, including Attean Falls, Holeb Falls, and The Narrows on Attean Pond. Most primitive sites feature fire rings and picnic tables but lack facilities like running water or electric hookups. Lone Jack Campground in the Cold Stream Forest area offers drive-in tent and RV sites with basic amenities.

Road access to many sites requires traveling on rough gravel roads, with some locations only accessible by water. A fire permit is required for campfires at most sites and can be obtained in Jackman before heading to remote areas. "There are two large sites here that are absolutely beautiful along the Moose Bow Loop," notes one camper about Holeb Falls. "The sites sit among large evergreen trees and have fire rings and picnic tables." The camping season generally runs from May through October, with weather conditions limiting access during winter months. Cell service is limited or non-existent at most sites, particularly those accessible only by boat. Visitors should be prepared for potentially challenging weather conditions, including wind on the ponds that can make boat launching difficult.

The waterfront camping experiences receive consistently high ratings from visitors, with many sites offering direct access to ponds and rivers. Several campers highlight the opportunity to hear loons calling at night and the secluded nature of boat-in sites. The Moose Bow Loop, a popular paddling route connecting several ponds and the Moose River, provides access to multiple primitive campsites that serve as overnight stops. A reviewer described The Narrows on Attean Pond as having "a large beach with beautiful views of the pond that makes launching and landing boats easy." Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with moose sightings common in the surrounding wilderness areas. Most primitive sites show evidence of heavy use during summer months, and campers are advised to practice proper waste disposal as there are no trash facilities at remote locations.

Best Camping Sites Near Jackman, Maine (74)

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Recent Reviews near Jackman, ME

171 Reviews of 74 Jackman Campgrounds



Guide to Jackman

Camping near Jackman, Maine, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Rent kayaks and paddle to nearby spots like Brickyard Hollow for pizza and beers. One camper shared, "On our last trip we rented double kayaks and paddled over to Brickyard Hollow for pizza and beers" at Cathedral Pines Campground.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Rowell Cove Campground and enjoy scenic views. A visitor noted, "There is a nice, fairly short (2-3 mile) hiking trail along the shoreline and through the woods."
  • Fishing: The area is known for great fishing spots. One reviewer mentioned, "Enjoy excellent fly fishing in the big river, or bring the boat out on the lake with easy boat launch access" at Seboomook Wilderness Campground.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Moosehead Family Campground said, "Honestly, it’s the cleanest bathroom/shower house I’ve seen."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites with good spacing. One camper at Lily Bay State Park remarked, "Almost all of the campsites are spaced well, with screening between them."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the campground staff. A reviewer at Happy Horseshoe Campground noted, "Very friendly and helpful."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor or no cell service. A camper at Seboomook Wilderness Campground mentioned, "There is no cell service. WiFi only at the store during generator hours."
  • Road Conditions: Some campgrounds are accessed via rough roads. One visitor to Seboomook Wilderness Campground warned, "You need to be adventurous for the drive in; there is a 33-mile dirt road to get to Seboomook Wilderness campground."
  • Seasonal Limitations: Check the campground seasons before planning your trip. For example, Cathedral Pines Campground is open from mid-May to September.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and family events. A camper at Happy Horseshoe Campground mentioned, "Buster serves up Bean-Hole Beans every Saturday evening. It's a Mainer thing."
  • Spacious Sites for Play: Choose campgrounds with larger sites for kids to play. One family at Balsam Woods Campground said, "The sites are super spacious and nicely placed in a wooded area."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A visitor at Moosehead Family Campground shared, "We were able to see moose regularly during evening hours just a few miles from camp."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure the campground can accommodate your RV size. A reviewer at Moosehead Family Campground noted, "The campground has lots of large trees and narrow roads which make it very difficult for big rigs."
  • Use Dump Stations Wisely: Be aware of the dump station's location and hours. A camper at Rowell Cove Campground mentioned, "There is a dump station with potable water and non-potable water to flush your tanks before you leave."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials before heading to remote campgrounds. A visitor at Seboomook Wilderness Campground advised, "There is a small store at the office yet there isn't anything else around here so bring everything you need."

Camping near Jackman, Maine, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a memorable experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any free or primitive camping options around Jackman?

Jackman offers several free primitive camping options for outdoor enthusiasts. Mosquito Rips provides a small dispersed site along the Moose River where you can fall asleep to the sounds of flowing water. It's ideal for solo travelers or small groups. Holeb Falls features two beautiful sites along the Moose Bow Loop, perfect for those seeking a more secluded experience. Other primitive options include Camel Rips, The Narrows on Attean Pond, and Dead River Access on Long Falls Dam Road. These sites typically offer fire rings but minimal amenities. Most primitive sites in the area are accessible by boat or hiking, making them perfect for paddlers exploring the region's waterways.

What are the best campgrounds in Jackman, Maine?

Jackman's best campgrounds offer a mix of amenities and natural beauty. Lone Jack Campground in Cold Stream Forest features 15 primitive sites with fire rings and dock access, with some waterfront sites offering extra privacy. Natanis Point Campground provides spacious waterfront sites with water available and is perfect for those seeking a quiet, off-grid experience near the Canadian border. For those willing to venture slightly beyond Jackman, Northeast Whitewater Lodge offers both yurts and primitive tent camping, while Lily Bay State Park's campgrounds provide a more developed camping experience on Moosehead Lake with plumbed toilets and showers. Each location has its own character, with varying levels of amenities and access.

What's the best time of year to go camping in Jackman, Maine?

The optimal camping season in Jackman runs from late May through early October. Summer (June-August) offers warm days perfect for paddling the region's waterways and exploring sites like The Narrows- Attean Pond, where you can enjoy beach access and beautiful pond views. Early fall brings spectacular foliage, cooler temperatures, and fewer bugs, making September an excellent time to visit Dunn Point Campground and similar locations. Spring camping (May) can be beautiful but expect mud and black flies. Winter camping is possible for experienced adventurers, as some areas remain accessible year-round, though services are limited. Consider water levels when planning trips to riverside campsites, as they can vary seasonally.

What amenities do Jackman, Maine campgrounds typically offer?

Campgrounds around Jackman vary widely in amenities. More developed options like Northeast Whitewater Lodge offer guide services, moose viewing tours, and whitewater rafting alongside yurts and primitive camping sites. Little Moose Pond Campsite represents the more primitive end of the spectrum with basic facilities in a public land setting. Most primitive sites include fire rings and sometimes picnic tables. More established campgrounds typically provide vault toilets or outhouses, while full-service campgrounds may offer water access, plumbed bathrooms, and shower facilities. Cell service is limited throughout the region. Few campgrounds accommodate RVs, as many sites are walk-in or boat-in only. Some locations offer dock access or beaches for water activities.