Lebanon, Maine sits at the border with New Hampshire and features diverse terrain with elevation ranging from 500-1,000 feet. The camping season typically runs from May through mid-October, with July temperatures averaging 70-85°F during the day and dropping to 55-65°F at night. Rain showers can occur throughout summer, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Water activities on the Salmon Falls River: Visitors at Salmon Falls River RV Resort and Family Campground can enjoy multiple water features beyond just swimming. "If you have young kids this place is so fun! Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!!" notes camper Samantha N. The resort features both regular pools and a lazy river.
Fishing opportunities: Anglers can find good spots at several area campgrounds with pond or river access. At Beaver Dam Campground, Pat notes, "Small quiet campground not too far from Dover, NH. Sites are narrow but wooded. The pond is tranquil and our site was right on the pond." Many sites offer direct water access for fishing.
Hiking nearby: The Lebanon region offers several trail systems within a 30-minute drive. "Lots of great hiking nearby. About an hour from Freeport Maine, also Portland is not far," reports Sandie B. from Beaver Dam Campground. Mount Agamenticus, about 20 minutes away, provides several trail options with coastal views.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the waterfront camping options. At Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" notes J L. These sites typically cost $5-10 more than standard sites but offer direct lake access.
Family-friendly amenities: Parents value the structured activities for kids. "This campground is pretty big, sprawled out with lots to do, like tubing, cornhole, arcade, pools with slide and more. Customer service was great both at check in as well as later when getting wood delivered," mentions Ben M. about Salmon Falls / Lebanon KOA.
Clean facilities: Several reviewers mention the cleanliness of bathrooms and showers as a key factor. "The facilities are spotless," notes stacy at Beaver Dam Campground. At Bunganut Lake Camping Area, campers appreciate "clean bathrooms and showers" though they note the showers "are a little bit of a hike uphill from the beach area."
What you should know
Booking waterfront sites: Reserve water-adjacent sites 3-6 months in advance, especially for holiday weekends. "We went in early May, when it was still a bit cold at night (in the low 40s) and not many people were around," explains Kris M. at Pawtuckaway State Park, noting that even in the shoulder season "we had neighbors in every adjoining site."
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be significant, particularly at riverfront locations. "My husband and I wanted to try out a camping spot semi-close to our house... We knew there would be a pretty full house, but this was insanity," reports Christy M. about a Memorial Day weekend. Bring repellent and consider screened shelters for eating areas.
Yurt camping in Lebanon, Maine options: For those seeking yurt accommodations, Dixons Coastal Maine Campground offers yurt rentals with convenient access to coastal attractions. "We've been there twice and have reservations for next year. Some sites are in the woods, some are in the field. There are yurts, power and water available, plus tent-only sites," reports Deken S.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Lebanon area campgrounds offer numerous structured activities. "Beautiful and very well maintained. The staff is awesome. There are SO many amazing activities for the whole family," mentions Joseph I. about Beaver Dam Campground. Most organized activities run 10am-4pm during peak season.
Best playgrounds: Sandy Pines Campground receives high marks for its playground facilities. "The playground and pool were a hit with the kids," notes Kaileigh K., adding, "We had an amazing long weekend at Sandy Pines and will definitely plan to return." Most campground playgrounds are designed for ages 5-12.
Educational options: Several campgrounds offer nature programs during summer months. "If you want to keep your family engaged and happy, this campground is a sure bet," states J B. about Salmon Falls / Lebanon KOA. Programs typically run 1-2 hours and cover topics like local wildlife and ecosystems.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should research specific site dimensions before booking. "Sites are level and site is fairly easy to maneuver with bigger rigs," notes Aaron G. about Salmon Falls River RV Resort. Sites with full hookups fill quickly during peak season.
Hookup availability: Most Lebanon area campgrounds offer water and electric, with some providing full sewer hookups. "Working hard. Wifi is spotty and slow," comments Kurt C. about Salmon Falls / Lebanon KOA, indicating that while basic services are reliable, internet connectivity might be limited.
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads or entrances. "Driveway is hard to see and difficult to get in and out of," cautions Constance S. about Beaver Dam Campground. RVs over 35 feet should confirm access before booking, especially at older campgrounds with narrower roads.
