The Jackman region's remote backcountry tent sites sit along the Northern Forest Canoe Trail at approximately 1,200 feet elevation in Maine's western mountains. Most primitive camping locations connect through a series of ponds and rivers forming the Moose Bow Loop paddling route. Winter temperatures can drop below -20°F, while summer highs typically reach 70-80°F with peak mosquito activity in June and July.
What to do
Paddling the Moose Bow Loop: This 34-mile canoe route connects Attean and Holeb Ponds via the Moose River, requiring portaging skills and proper equipment. "If you are looking to do a section (and a loop even) trip on the NFCT, this is a great area to do it as long as you've got the ability to portage your boat and gear," notes reviewer Sarah C. about Attean Falls.
Hiking near Greenville: Access trails in the Little Moose Public Lands area, just 30 miles from Jackman. "The Loop hike is about 4.4 miles with a 650' elevation change. For a harder hike with great views of Moosehead Lake and Greenville, check out Big Moose Mountain which is about 4.4 miles with an elevation gain of 1,800'," according to Nancy W. who visited Trout Pond Campsite.
Fishing for native brook trout: Special regulations protect native fish populations in wilderness ponds. "There is no live bait allowed for fishing in the pond in order to protect the native brook trout population," mentions Nancy W. about Little Notch Pond. Bring artificial lures and check Maine fishing regulations before your trip.
What campers like
Remote solitude: The best tent camping near Jackman, Maine offers exceptional wilderness experiences far from developed facilities. "If you are looking for a secluded spot, this is a great one," writes Sarah C. about Camel Rips, adding "The scenery is beautiful and if you're lucky, you'll have the place to yourself!"
Rustic amenities: Many sites offer basic but functional facilities. "The site also has a picnic table and fire ring. There is a nice semi-protected point where we pitched our tent under a full moon," shares Sarah C. about Attean Falls. These simple touches make wilderness camping more comfortable without sacrificing the backcountry experience.
Water access: Beachfront campsites facilitate easy boat launching and water activities. "Round barn campsites offers a dozen or so tent sites with two big group sites... The best tent site is on the island just offshore accessible by sandbar which is usually just knee deep," explains Xzavier about Round Barn Campsites. The protected cove creates safer swimming conditions away from wind and waves.
What you should know
Fire permit requirements: Maine regulations mandate fire permits for all campsites in the region. "You do need to obtain a fire permit (call 207-695-3721) prior to kindling a fire and can collect firewood but many of it is wet and unseasoned," warns Nancy W. about Little Notch Pond. Permits can be obtained in Jackman before departing for remote sites.
Human impact challenges: Increased visitation affects site conditions. "This is a large site that sits on the eastern side of Holeb Pond... however, it is very impacted and often full of trash. It really is an amazing location but was really gross when we were there in October of 2020," cautions Sarah C. about Portage Site. Pack out all trash and practice Leave No Trace principles.
Weather considerations: Wind conditions affect boat access and camping comfort. "It can get rather windy here and depending on the direction, can also make launching and landing nearly impossible so be sure to check the weather," advises Sarah C. about The Narrows on Attean Pond. September and early October typically offer more stable weather patterns.
Tips for camping with families
Paddle-in complexity: Accessing remote sites with children requires additional planning. "It isn't the only site good for the first night but know that it may be occupied so do some research so you know what other options are available," suggests Sarah C. regarding The Narrows. Always have backup locations identified when traveling with children.
Site selection for beginners: Choose more accessible locations for family backcountry camping. "This primitive campsite is located about a quarter of a mile away from the parking lot. The path to get to the campsite is relatively flat and easy to traverse except over some of the wooden planks which were slippery when I visited due to recent rain," explains Nancy W. about Trout Pond Campsite.
Base camp alternatives: For less remote experiences, consider sites closer to amenities. "We really enjoyed staying here since we were rafting with them the next day. Cheap spots right next to the river... I think this would be great for a big family or group because it would all be close together," shares Catherine M. about Magic Falls Adventures Campground.
Tips from RVers
Dispersed options for small rigs: Limited options exist for vehicle camping near Jackman. "Dispersed Gravel Pit This is a large mowed area on top of a gravel pit. There are two fire pits but plenty of room for more than two campers... The road to the pit is gravel and bumpy but you don't need a 4-wheel drive or high clearance vehicle," explains Nancy W. about Upper Gravel Pit. Truck campers and small trailers work best in these primitive conditions.
Resource limitations: No hookups or services exist at dispersed sites. "There are no utilities, potable water, restroom, or garbage facilities so bring the water your need and carry out your trash. (There is a dump station at the nearby Moosehead Family Campground)," adds Nancy about the Upper Gravel Pit area. Plan to be completely self-contained when tent camping near Jackman, Maine.
