Tent campsites near Norridgewock, Maine offer varied terrain options beyond the immediate town area. The region spans from the Carrabassett Valley with its mountain access campsites to waterfront locations along local ponds and lakes. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop below 40°F.
What to do
Paddling access points: Round Barn Campsites features a protected cove for safe swimming away from wind and waves. A camper noted, "The best tent site is on the island just offshore accessible by sandbar which is usually just knee deep."
Blueberry picking: Continuous Harmony Farm allows campers to participate in seasonal harvesting. "Pick your own blueberries alongside their raking crew in their organic wild blueberry barrens. This experience is available only during blueberry season in late July and early August, and there is a fee," explains a Continuous Harmony Farm visitor.
Mountain hiking: The Stafford Brook trail at Round Barn Campsites provides direct access to Bigelow Mountain. "You can easily hike from your campsite to the top of the mountain and back within a day," reports one camper, making it an excellent basecamp for day hiking.
What campers like
Platform camping: Tiny Cabins of Maine offers stable wooden platforms for tent setup. "The tent camping amenities, including the pop-up toilet and sturdy wooden platform, were thoughtfully provided. The fire pit and picnic table were perfect for evening gatherings, and the hammock added an extra touch of relaxation," explains a recent Tiny Cabins of Maine visitor.
Wildlife soundscape: Bigelow Col Campsite offers natural immersion with minimal facilities. A camper shared, "The echoing calls of loons during both day and night created an immersive natural ambiance, and the hooting owls added to the enchanting soundscape after sunset."
Privacy options: Continuous Harmony Farm features pond-side camping with open field views. "The space is gorgeous, right next to a pond. Important to know though, there are several campsites. It's unclear how many campers could be there on any given night but it could be many," noted one visitor.
What you should know
Access challenges: Some campsites require careful vehicle navigation. "The Road is rough, but with care you can get there, just go slow," advises a visitor to Round Barn Campsites. Many sites like Moose Falls require short walks to reach tent platforms.
Water availability: Water sources at backcountry sites can be unreliable. A Moose Falls Campsite visitor reported, "Water source for the site had dried up when we got there but there was just enough flow on a spring that crossed the trail about 100 ft north of the site."
Site competition: Bigelow Col Campsite operates on a first-come basis without reservations. "It's clear that the campground is popular, perhaps even a bit crowded at times. Some folks seem to make it their semi-permanent home, but the managing authorities are vigilant in addressing such situations," noted one camper.
Tips for camping with families
Amenities prioritization: For camping with children, select sites with basic facilities. "My daughter and I stayed there last Friday night and shared the site with some wonderful people. Site was quiet and really felt like one was 'in' the Maine woods. 4 platforms and a privy," explains a visitor to Moose Falls Campsite.
Activity planning: The Hawnets Nest offers both A-frame cabin and tent options, providing flexibility for families with younger children. A visitor noted this location is "the perfect stop for adventure," with accommodations that include "a cool A-Frame or bring-your-own Tent."
Bug preparation: Mosquitoes are commonly mentioned across campsite reviews. "Despite contending with a fair share of mosquitoes, the tranquility of the location made it all worthwhile," notes one camper, suggesting families should pack appropriate repellent and protective clothing.
Tips from RVers
Limited options: Most tent campsites near Norridgewock have minimal or no RV accommodations. At Tops'l Farm, the focus is on "glamping" with tents and cabins rather than RV sites. "This place is like the Ritz Carlton of campgrounds! The owners took a farm and converted into an upscale camping experience," explains one visitor.
Alternative hookups: Riverbend Campground offers limited electric hookups and water connections suitable for smaller RVs. A visitor described it simply as "Just a beautiful, wild spot," indicating its natural setting despite having some RV amenities.
