Cathedral Pines Campground and Northeast Whitewater Lodge are just two of the camping options near Moscow, Maine, located in Somerset County at around 600 feet elevation. This region experiences cool nights even in summer, with temperatures typically dropping into the 50s after sunset. The area sits at the gateway to Maine's North Woods with access to the Kennebec River, known for its Class III-IV rapids during scheduled dam releases.
What to do
Whitewater adventures: Magic Falls Adventures Campground offers tent camping right beside the Kennebec River. "We really enjoyed staying here since we were rafting with them the next day. Cheap spots right next to the river," notes Catherine M., who found the convenient location ideal for multi-day river excursions.
Mountain hiking: Explore the numerous peaks accessible from Moosehead Family Campground. As one visitor shares, "Just a short drive away is the east outlet of the Kennebec River which is renowned for its fly fishing. Some touristy things to do are a boat ride on the Katahdin (an old steam ship), ferry ride over to Mt. Kineo for hiking with a great view."
Wildlife photography: The Moscow region offers excellent moose viewing opportunities. One visitor to Cowan Cove explains, "We explored many of them, and found moose galore on the roads, and water. That being said, be careful they are huger than you think if you never seen one in person."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Cathedral Pines Campground receives consistent praise for its generous campsites. "Sites are very large and spacious. You are not on top of the next one. Facilities are bright and clean. Every site has its own 'fire box' with cooking grate," notes Ken B. about the setup.
Lake access: Many campers appreciate the water access at Peaks-Kenny State Park. One visitor describes, "A short walk down to the beach area which offers a playground, cookout spots, and canoe rentals. Make sure to stick around and watch the stunning sunsets with views of Borestone Mountain, which is also an amazing nearby hike!"
Family activities: For those seeking structured recreation, Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park provides numerous organized activities. "The swimming pool was awesome as well as the water slides. The fireworks on July 4th could match Disney World!" reports Cheryl R., highlighting the extensive programming.
What you should know
Site selection matters: When glamping near Moscow, Maine, not all sites offer equal privacy. At Northeast Whitewater Lodge, "The sites are fairly close together so you will definitely hear and see your neighbor. There is no water or port-a-potties at camping sites. One bathhouse is located adjacent to the main building... pretty far away from the camping area."
Road conditions: Access to remote sites requires preparation. At Cowan Cove, "I would not take a car down these logging roads. Pothole mania here. They are not maintained much more than needed for logging trucks," warns Tina D.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the Moscow area operate from mid-May through early October. One camper notes about Moosehead Family Campground: "Season opens around Memorial Day and when I visited midweek in late June it was still quiet."
Tips for camping with families
Waterfront options: Cupsuptic Lake Park & Campground offers sites directly on the water. "Our site was right on the lake. Places to grill and dock your boat. Bathrooms and showers very clean. There's also a very nice pavilion if it's rainy," reports one visitor, making it ideal for family trips.
Noise considerations: For families seeking quiet, consider timing. "If you want to ride ATV trails, fish and swim in the Kennebec River, ride mountain bikes on the Kennebec rail trail this is a great place to stay. The down side is the truck traffic on the nearby roads," notes Kevin W. about The Evergreens Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Incorporate wildlife viewing into your family activities. At Peaks-Kenny State Park, "There were plenty of deer making their appearance during our walks. We brought our dogs, dogs are not permitted on the beach."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Sebasticook Lake Campground offers waterfront RV sites but presents challenges. "The roads are narrow and full of bumps, mud, etc. The site, 34 was on the water, but was so bumpy and sloped it would be impossible to get level," cautions Christopher.
Navigational challenges: Larger RVs face difficulties at some campgrounds. "Small campground with 36 RV and tent sites located just a couple of miles from downtown Greenville. The campground has lots of large trees and narrow roads which make it very difficult for big rigs," reports Nancy W. about Moosehead Family Campground.
Utility access: Not all glamping sites near Moscow offer full hookups. While Cathedral Pines provides water and electric connections, other locations like Cowan Cove are more primitive with "no hookups or dump station."
