Tent campsites near New Gloucester, Maine range from dispersed forest sites to established grounds with river access. Temperatures in summer typically range from 75-85°F during days and 55-65°F overnight, making sleeping conditions comfortable compared to hotter southern regions. Mature maple and birch trees complement pine forests, creating diversified habitats across campgrounds in the region.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: At White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road, campers can access the Highwater trail with bridge close by. "Highwater trail with bridge close by. Great stars. Creek runs through road near sites good for getting water to filter or washing. Trailhead at end of road," notes Jason R.
River activities: At Swans Falls Campground, visitors can launch canoes and kayaks for Saco River paddling. "It's in a nice, open pine forest and there is a beautiful walking trail by the Saco River," reports Charles P. The campground serves as a popular river access point, especially on weekends.
Apple picking: Seasonal camping at local orchards offers unique experiences. "We stayed here last weekend while on the Orchard for our friends' wedding. The campsite they have here is not open all the time and only available for special events so definitely make sure to check in advance," advises Asher K. about Boothby's Orchard, which combines camping with apple harvesting opportunities.
What campers like
Private, well-spaced sites: White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road provides exceptional privacy between sites. Amanda B. notes, "8 huge, beautiful campsites in the heavily wooded Evans Notch section of The White Mountains National Forest. It's easy to forget there are other people camping on other sites because they're so far apart."
Clean facilities: Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach maintains high standards for their facilities. Erin M. mentions, "We really enjoyed our stay here. The staff was friendly, the bathrooms and grounds were very clean, activities were fun, the playground/pool was nice and the Maine blueberry pancakes were amazing!"
Quiet camping atmosphere: Campsites farther from major attractions offer tranquility. "These campsites are located on a dead end dirt road. The campsites are spread out so you are not on top of each other. There is a fire pit but no other amenities," explains Rhonda H. about dispersed camping options in the White Mountain National Forest.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most tent camping near New Gloucester operates between May and mid-October. Riverbend Campground runs from May 1 to mid-October, typical of the region's camping season. Weather conditions limit camping options outside this timeframe.
Weekend congestion: Popular water access points become crowded on summer weekends. "On weekends there's a huge line up of people putting in to float down the river, which is busy and noisy. It calms down by afternoon," advises K R. about Swans Falls.
Cell coverage varies: Signal strength depends on specific location and carrier. Kevin H. reports about White Mountains sites: "Just enough t-mobile/starlink signal to watch streaming and message, but wouldn't be enough for remote work so we went to the White Mountain National Forest Picnic area off the main road about 5 minutes away and had great signal."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options for mixed comfort levels: Boothby's Orchard offers both tent sites and cabins. "They also have cabins you can stay in as an alternative but those are limited," mentions Asher K., making this a good option for families with varying comfort needs.
Activities beyond camping: Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach provides structured entertainment. "Kid activities were done regularly. Pizza and breakfast is very good if you don't want to cook. Outdoor movies were fun," explains Jill P.
Large group sites: Some campgrounds accommodate multiple tents on single sites. K R. shares about Swans Falls Campground: "Camped here with family—all adults, 3 tents. We all fit in the large site easily. Sites are wooded but not a ton of space/trees in between them."
Tips from RVers
Limited amenities at dispersed sites: While tent campers can manage at primitive sites, RVers should note limited facilities. At White Mountains Camping, Kt advises: "Amazing little larry brook. Great flat sites except top two." The absence of hookups makes these locations better suited for self-contained units.
Beach shuttle service: Mac's Camping Area provides convenient water access without moving your vehicle. Jake C. notes: "Mac's camping has large RV Sites with access to their private beach & boat launch!"
Site selection for privacy: When choosing tent sites near New Gloucester, location within the campground matters. Nancy W. advises about Sun Outdoors: "The campground sits among tall pine trees which offer nice shade helps alleviate some of the feel of a crowded campground."
