The White Mountain National Forest region near Lovell, Maine offers camping experiences ranging from 200 to 800 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with cooler nights and occasional rainfall. This region provides diverse yurt camping options within a 30-mile radius of Lovell, with most accommodations available from May through mid-October.
What to do
Swimming and tubing opportunities: At On the Saco Family Campground, the sandy-bottomed river provides refreshing water activities. "The river was perfect, sandy bottom, refreshing current, we anchored ourselves for a bit then pulled it up and just floated down river for awhile before walking back along the sandbars right in the river!" notes Christopher K.
Mountain hiking access: Covered Bridge Campground offers direct trail connections without driving. One visitor shared, "Extra bonus is the Boulder Loop Trail that is attached to the campground (it's relatively short, offers several great vista views, and you can walk there from the campground and not have to deal with parking)."
Biking and multi-use trails: Moose Brook State Park maintains connections to regional trails. "Also accessible from the park is the Presidential Rail Trail and several other ATV/Snowmobile trails. FYI, the Rail Trail is NOT open to ATVs. So hop on the moderate grade crushed gravel trail and head all the way to Pondicherry, a wildlife refuge, about 18 miles from the park," reports Sarah C.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The Off Grid Black Cap Yurt provides secluded accommodations for those seeking isolation. A guest noted, "The Off Grid Black Cap Yurt in New Hampshire is the perfect place for those looking for privacy and a complete break from the hustle and bustle of the city."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the region maintain well-kept bathhouses. At Eastern Slope Camping Area, a reviewer commented, "The showers and bathrooms were the nicest I've seen in a campground. Great place and I'd stay here again."
River access: Water features are consistently rated highly by visitors. "This campground was really nice. Sites were large and level. Many large trees created a lot of shade. A large wooden shelter stood over our picnic table, with a decent amount of space next to it for tents or a small camper," shared Sue W. about Eastern Slope's spacious setups.
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Several campgrounds report bear activity. At Moose Brook State Park Campground, visitors must take precautions. "The staff and people were friendly and helpful... Remember you are in the mountains... you will see wildlife. Respect nature and heed the warnings of leaving food out on your campsite! It was our first time seeing a black bear walking around," warns Kelly T.
Seasonal operations: Most yurt camping and glamping facilities near Lovell operate on limited schedules. Many close after Indigenous Peoples' Day weekend in October and don't reopen until May, with peak occupancy from late June through August.
Flooding concerns: Some riverside campgrounds experience seasonal flooding. Eastern Slope Camping Area has experienced multiple flooding events according to reviews, with one noting "Place has floods twice in five years."
Tips for camping with families
Activity schedules: Papoose Pond Family Campground and Cabins organizes family events throughout summer. "We played parents VS kids kickball and laughed so hard. They have a nice pool and lake. We tie dyed as an activity as a family and in turn had a great souvenir to bring home," shares Angela M.
River safety: When staying at waterfront sites, consider children's swimming abilities. The Saco River depth varies seasonally, with late summer typically featuring lower water levels suitable for younger children. Early summer water can run faster and deeper, requiring closer supervision.
Campsite selection: Choose specific areas for better family experiences. At Papoose Pond, a visitor recommended, "We stayed on the pool/rec hall side and it definitely seemed less condensed over there than the pond side," indicating that different sections offer varied experiences at the same facility.
Tips for RVers
Limited road access: Some yurt camping facilities near Lovell have restricted entry points for larger vehicles. Covered Bridge Campground has specific clearance limitations, as one reviewer noted: "The road in for RVs is not terrific. There is about a 1/2 mile that is mostly one lane (with a drop off on one side) and if someone is coming decisions have to be made."
Hookup availability: Eastern Slope Camping Area offers various utility connections. "The sites are very close to each other. If you fart, all surrounding sites will hear you... Each site (except beach) has a wood canopy, picnic bench, electrical, water spigot & designated fire pit. Bathrooms are close to every site."
Site spacing varies: When booking yurt camping near Lovell, Maine, research the layout carefully. At Lakeside Pines Campground, one guest observed, "The sites are a little small and do not have any trees between them to shield you from those next to you... Also, the road is tight so be prepared to drive close to trees."
