The Newry, Maine area sits at elevations ranging from 650 to 1,000 feet in the western Maine mountains, with camping options nestled among the peaks and valleys of the region. The area experiences distinct seasons with warm summer days typically reaching 75-85°F, while evening temperatures can drop significantly even in summer. Fall brings vibrant foliage with peak colors usually occurring in early October.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Mollidgewock State Park provides river access for anglers seeking trout in the Androscoggin River. "Caught about a dozen small rainbows anchored at the head of the rapids," reports one camper at Mollidgewock State Park Campground.
Hiking the fire tower: The Milan Hill fire tower offers panoramic views across the region. "The fire tower at the top allows perfect views of the area," notes a visitor to Milan Hill State Park Campground.
Tubing and swimming: The Saco River provides refreshing summer water activities. A camper at Jellystone Park™ Glen Ellis explains: "One of the biggest ones that we took lots of advantage of is the swimming and tubing on the Saco River... They have tubes to rent right there which was very handy."
Wildlife viewing: The region is known for moose and bear sightings. "We have stayed at Moose Brook State Park a number of times over the years... On a number of occasions we have seen moose or bear in the area," shares a visitor to Moose Brook State Park Campground.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded camping spots. "Our site was very private and secluded, but close to bathrooms and showers," notes a camper at Moose Brook State Park Campground.
Family activities: The area caters to families with various amenities. According to a visitor at Papoose Pond Family Campground and Cabins: "We've been camping as a large group here every year for 12 years. Perfect spot to relax and get away from everything. Great amount of amenities and privacy."
Group camping options: Barnes Field offers spacious sites for larger groups. "This campground is great for groups! The sites are well spaced and can accommodate several tents in each site. There are multiple picnic tables (3-4) in each site and plenty of room for the whole gang," reports a camper at Barnes Field Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain good bathroom and shower facilities. "Clean bathrooms and awesome showers! Love this place!" writes a visitor about Moose Brook State Park Campground.
What you should know
Yurt camping near Newry, Maine: The Milan Hill State Park offers yurt accommodations for those seeking glamping options. As one camper noted, "the yurt was great, the bathroom was just a pit toilet."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the Newry area have limited operating seasons. Milan Hill State Park is open "May 12 to October 29," while Moose Brook State Park operates from "May 5 to November 4."
Primitive facilities at some locations: Not all campgrounds offer full amenities. A camper at Sebago Lake State Park Campground points out: "This campground was in the woods and was well maintained... The bathrooms were very clean. The lake was nice too, sandy beaches."
Weather considerations: The region can experience heavy rain and temperature fluctuations. "For a large portion of our stay it torrentially downpoured. The trees allowed us to canopy a tarp but our fire pit completely flooded and we had to bail it out when the rain finally stopped," shares a Sebago Lake State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated family campgrounds: Some locations specifically cater to children with organized activities. "Perfect for family camping! Fishing, swimming, river walks, biking and movie nights!" reports a visitor to Moose Brook State Park Campground.
Consider waterfront options: Lake and river access provides built-in entertainment. A camper at Papoose Pond Family Campground explains: "This campground is amazing. It is perfect for family camping. There is so much to do for all ages. The staff are amazing and so friendly."
Check for playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "Perfect stay if you have kiddos and dogs! There's a playground, arcade, and beach. They offer kayak and canoe rentals," notes a camper at Honey Run Campground and Beach.
Plan for evening activities: Look for campgrounds with organized events. "We love this campground! Great clean pool, arcade and playground for the kids, great store and laundry facilities," shares a visitor to Jellystone Park™ Glen Ellis.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Choose sites based on size and privacy needs. At Papoose Pond Family Campground, a camper advises: "Lots of nice spacious wooded sites. Located on 2 sides of a road, the side opposite the lake was much nicer and more spacious. Sites around the lake very crowded together."
Consider road access: Some campgrounds have tight driving conditions. A visitor to Lakeside Pines Campground cautions: "The road is tight so be prepared to drive close to trees."
Utility hookups vary: Check what services are available at your selected campground. "We grabbed a tent site for 3 days and it had water and electric! You get a picnic table and fire ring," notes a camper at Honey Run Campground and Beach.
Water and sewer planning: Many campgrounds offer dump stations and water access. Sebago Lake State Park Campground provides "electric hookups, fifty-amp hookups, sanitary-dump, and water hookups" according to their amenities listing.
