Camping in North Monmouth, Maine centers around Androscoggin Lake, with its 3,826 acres of water and 14.7 miles of shoreline. The region experiences warm summers with average July temperatures around 80°F and cool evenings in the 50s-60s. Most camping facilities operate from mid-May through mid-October with peak season from late June through Labor Day weekend.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing on Androscoggin Lake: Anglers can try their luck with sunfish from the docks at Augusta West Kampground. "Kids caught many sunfish & had loads of fun! Very quiet but quaint campground! Loved waking up to the sounds of the loons & even spotted a bald eagle!" notes Heather C.
Disc golf course access: Several campgrounds offer on-site courses for family competition. "Very nice campground with a good camp store and disc golf course. We will stay again!" reports J B. about Beaver Brook Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers excellent bird watching, especially around dawn and dusk. "Listened to the loons, watched Canadian Geese with their goslings and saw a bald eagle swoop down and try to get something," shares Michi P. at Augusta West Kampground.
Visit Maine Cabin Masters Store: Located near Augusta West Kampground, this store appeals to fans of the popular show. "There is a Really nice grocery store near by. We went to Maine Cabin Masters Store, which if you're a fan was fun," mentions Michi P.
What campers like
Lake access and water activities: The private beaches and water access rank highly among camper reviews. At Shore Hills Campground, "You have to stop at Bet's Fish Fry for the best fried fish and chips you have ever had. Bring a beer or two and enjoy eating your food on the picnic tables in the nearby park," suggests Nancy W.
Brewery and restaurant access: Some campgrounds feature on-site dining and craft beer. "The brewery is really cool, and the wood fired pizza is some of my favorite. The folks who run this place are really friendly and accommodating," writes Joe R. about Boothbay Craft Brewery & RV Resort.
Quiet camping atmospheres: Many campgrounds maintain peaceful environments with wildlife viewing opportunities. A reviewer at Shore Hills Campground mentions, "We spent one night in a 25 feet RV at the far end of the campsite. The campsite is spacious and clean, and has a nice walkway onto a small island in the lake."
Individual garbage cans: A surprising amenity mentioned in multiple reviews is site-specific trash collection. "Each site has its own garbage can which I super convenient," notes a camper at Shore Hills Campground.
What you should know
Electric hookup limitations: Some campgrounds have unusual electric setups. At Thomas Point Beach and Campground, "The electric hook up required a 50 ft. extension cord to reach a pole... there's no water or sewer hook ups so fill ur water tank before parking," advises Shannon M.
Limited mobile connectivity: Cell service varies throughout the region, with some campgrounds having minimal reception. "The WiFi is non existent so if I wanna b off grid then this is the spot for u," shares a Thomas Point Beach camper.
Dump station restrictions: Some RV campgrounds near North Monmouth have strict policies about waste disposal. One camper at Martin Stream Campground reports, "You are only allowed ONE use at dump station upon leaving the campground...I asked if I could pay for a second dump and it was $30."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking during summer months, particularly for waterfront sites. Spots fill quickly from July through Labor Day, with some sites requiring booking 3-6 months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Look for organized activities: Family-oriented campgrounds offer scheduled events. At More to Life Campground, "Plenty to do for the family including a beach, playground, water activities, and crafts! Fun activities every week and a nice game room," shares Ashley V.
Consider beach accessibility: Sites with private swimming areas provide safer options for young children. "A nice place to visit. We had full hook ups. The sites are close together. We were camping with friends so this was bonus us," notes Celeste C. about Shore Hills Campground.
Check noise policies: Family-friendly campgrounds enforce quiet hours. "I'm biased as we are seasonal campers. We love this place because it's not a party campground and is very family friendly," writes William about More to Life Campground.
Pack for weather changes: Maine evenings can drop into the 50s even in summer. Bring layers and rain gear as summer thunderstorms are common in the region, particularly in July and August.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: When booking at rv campgrounds in North Monmouth, Maine, request specific sites based on your rig size. "We stayed in the 'new sites' adjacent to the entrance road; it was a long nice site with gravel but was not private. Most sites are packed in; close to others with not a lot of privacy," shares Quinn G. about Augusta West Kampground.
Extension cord requirements: Some campgrounds have unusual power post placements. Come prepared with extra-long cords and splitters if needed, especially at more rustic facilities.
Tree clearance challenges: Several campgrounds have mature trees that can make navigation difficult for larger rigs. "The roads to our site were easy to navigate with our 45' RV and tow car but the check-in area near the office is very small and tight and at times, it was very backed up and RV's were out on the main road," explains a Shore Hills camper.
Prepare for variable road conditions: Many access roads to campgrounds feature gravel surfaces with occasional potholes. Reducing tire pressure slightly on tow vehicles can help with the ride quality on rougher roads.