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Best Tent Camping near North Turner, ME

707 Reviews
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

North Turner offers several tent camping options within driving distance, with dispersed camping areas providing more rustic experiences than established campgrounds. White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road stands out as a popular dispersed camping destination approximately 45 minutes west of North Turner, featuring eight spacious tent sites along a dead-end dirt road. Tiny Cabins of Maine, despite its name, includes tent camping sites with water views on their pond property, providing a more established camping experience with basic amenities.

Most tent campsites in the region are minimally developed with basic facilities. White Mountains camping sites feature fire pits but no other amenities, requiring campers to pack in all necessary supplies including water for filtering. Sites at Little Larry Road are spread far apart on the forested hillside, providing excellent privacy between campers. The road is uphill and unpaved but generally accessible by standard vehicles. Some tent sites at Tiny Cabins of Maine include wooden platforms, pop-up toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits, offering slightly more convenience while maintaining a natural setting.

The tent camping experience near North Turner varies significantly between established and dispersed sites. Little Larry Road campsites offer exceptional privacy and a wilderness feel while still remaining accessible. A visitor commented that "the campsites are spread out so you are not on top of each other" and noted the peaceful setting with "a nice stream" at the uppermost site. Campers have reported cell service at some of the sites, particularly sites 4 and 5, though signal can be spotty throughout the region. For those seeking more amenities, the tent site at Tiny Cabins of Maine provides access to kayaking on their pond with a convenient dock, while still maintaining a secluded camping experience. A camper noted that "the tent camping amenities, including the pop-up toilet and sturdy wooden platform, were thoughtfully provided."

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Best Tent Sites Near North Turner, Maine (23)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near North Turner, ME

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Tent Camping Reviews near North Turner, ME

707 Reviews of 23 North Turner Campgrounds

  • Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 5, 2020

    White Birches Camping Park

    A little something for everyone

    This Camping Park has something for just about everyone. Whether you have an RV (small, medium or large), tent, are looking for a cabin or want a little more of a wilderness feel, this place has something to offer. 

    While the campground looks to be primarily RV camping from the road, there are many tent sites tucked away in the trees and even two sites that are walk-in only and are situated right on the Androscoggin River. Additionally, the campground has several nice cabins available as well.

    Let's start with the RV sites: there are a bunch! This campground also hosts many seasonal campers who have sites situated around the perimeter of both sides of the campground (split by Route 2). Seasonal campers have some pretty sweet set-ups for sure. The only downside to some of the RV spots is that they can be in the sun almost all day which can be a bit much in the heart of the summer. Otherwise, sites are well maintained and have all the normal hookups for RVs.

    Tent sites are well spaced and almost all of them are in the shade which is a huge bonus! Each site has a picnic table, fire ring and nice level spot to pitch your tent. Bath houses are conveniently located throughout the campground and are well maintained. 

    The two walk-in tent sites are very secluded and offer fire rings, picnic tables, a bear box and one of the two sites has a wooden tent platform. The second site's tent platform is currently being built (July 2020) and should be at the site and ready for use soon. These sites sit right on the beautiful Androscoggin River, offering a serene backdrop for your camping adventure.

    The campground is situated in-between two large tracts of the White Mountain National Forest. Great hiking is available at the campground as well as a short drive away. If hiking is a hobby of yours, look no further! This is a great location to base yourself out of to get some solid miles under your belt. There is a campground office that has a small store as well as laundry facilities. They also offer an AT Hiker Hostel. They also have a nice heated swimming pool, playground and many other amenities. When there isn't a global health pandemic, they have a bouncy house for the kids. They often show movies on the lawn when the weather cooperates. They also rent kayaks and you can launch from the campground or they will shuttle you some place near by.

    It really is a campground with a little bit of everything! Owned by locals of the community who have run the place for over 25 years.

  • Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2017

    Dolly Copp Campground

    Just on the edge of town

    This is a perfectly situated campground. Just off the main road connection Gorham and North Conway (Route 16), this campground is just minutes from town but has a wonderful wilderness feel. While this is a relatively large campground, a significant portion of it is under construction currently (Summer 2017).

    There are several loops of sites here but each site is spacious and wooded, with lot's of shade. There are flush toilets (no showers) and water spigots throughout the campground. Some sites do experience a bit of foot traffic if they are on the way to one of the restrooms.

    There is a small welcome/registration building where you stop to register on your way in. Be careful driving through the campground, the roads are in rough shape due to the construction.

    Sites have very clean fire pits, picnic tables and plenty of space for pitching a tent or two. There are several sites here that cater more to RVs but many of the sites are very tent friendly (soft, non-gravel real estate). Sites are $22/night and $5 for each additional vehicle.

    This is a popular spot with lot's of amazing hiking in the vicinity so reserve early!

  • Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 5, 2020

    Hastings Campground

    Wonderful Fall Location

    This quiet spot is perfect for late season camping in the fall in New England. It is relatively small but there is a host on site who was incredibly friendly and attentive. Situated just off the Wild River and off of major roads, Hastings was incredibly peaceful while we were there. The sites are nicely spaced out and most have small wooded sections in between them for privacy. Additionally, sites are meticulously kept as are the two pit toilets available. 

    There is a water spogit a short walk from most campsites. Each site has a fire ring with grate, clear flat spots for pitching a tent or backing in an RV. Since I'm not an RV camper, I didn't pay much attention to those ameneties. Sites have a nice picnic table as well. There is plenty of space at each site to pitch a tent or two as well as a canapoy of some sort if you want. 

    While this place can get busy in the summer season, it's perfect for those in between seasons and super close to some great hiking in the White Mountains!

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Grafton Notch Campground

    Five years later, still five stars!

    General: Small (15-site) campground near Grafton Notch State Park (but not IN the park). No hookups. Not all will agree with me, but I am glad no generators are allowed.

    Site Quality: Sites are gravel, level, and have enough trees to afford privacy between sites. 

    Bath/Shower House: It is immaculately clean. Each gender has two stalls and one ADA-accessible shower. The shower has nice warm water and a great flow. There is also a very clean vault toilet. 

    Activities/Amenities: Horseshoes and cornhole in the lawn area in the center. Information on many local hikes. Rocky beach has tables where you can sit and relax. There are two dishwashing sinks, potable water, and a dump station. 

    What makes this campground shine is the owner, Mo. We’ve stayed in many campgrounds but hands down, Mo takes more pride in her campground than any other we’ve been in. Seasonal decorations, flower pots, and Mo is an on-site presence to answer questions, engage in conversation, and make sure the sites and all facilities are pristine. We stayed here five years ago and look forward to hopefully staying again in the future. About the only thing I can find fault with is the proximity to the road but even at that, road noise is minimal.

  • L
    Aug. 20, 2021

    Desert of Maine Campground

    Aesthetically pleasing campground-- good for tent campers

    Desert of Maine campground is an excellent choice just 4-5 miles from the heart of Freeport at interstate exit # 22. This campground is well-imagined. Sites are close together, and some are small. There are 2 hike-in sites which are set apart. Wifi is provided throughout the campground and most sites have power. They must have studied "best practices" when designing this lovely campground. 

    I booked an extra night.

    This is an outdoor experience campground- not a wilderness adventure -- but perfect for young families…especially for those new to camping or those for whom a very sanitary classic bathroom is needed.Children find and entertain each other in the common area.

    Sites 19-27 face a shared square with excellent access to the modern and stylish bath house. Other sites have a somewhat further walk. Sites 17-27 are best for tents due to the configuration of the sites.. Tent sites # 2 & # 3 are short walk-in and very private, but lack easy access to the bath house. Almost all sites in this campground have shade and are under a beautiful canopy of old pine, maple and balsam.

    Site 24 is lovely & slightly set apart and cars are parked close by but not on the tent site. Site 27 is located down a steep slope and is very private but has difficult access. I would categorize site 27 as a hike-in site, but not # 24.  All sites are generally level and have been graded. Sites have scant privacy in front, but back up to forest. Sites 4, 6,17, 19, 23 & 26 have slightly more space but space is not the defining issue in this campground. RV's that are large should not try this campground. The maintenance is superb; and the thoughtful design of the overall campground is aesthetically pleasing. 

    This attractive campground is small-scale and personally managed. 

    Ice is available for purchase…as is wood. 

    Beware of speed trap on the 2 mile access road between the interstate & campground.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2024

    Beach Camping Area

    Motorcycle camping

    Next to river and had a major flood this spring. I was tent camping on motorcycle and tent site are on dirt due to flood. Tent Site consists of picnic table. No water or sewer or electrical. $43 a night and bring quarters for shower. Clean restrooms and showers but I feel way over priced for what was offered. Should have looked for alternate.

  • Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 8, 2020

    Wild River Wilderness Area

    Backcountry Wilderness Camping

    The Wild River Wilderness area spans both New Hampshire and Maine and can be accessed by multiple trail heads in either state. Route 113 (open seasonally late May/early June until the snow begins to fall) travels through the Evans Notch in the White Mountain National Forest and has multiple trail heads that enable you to access the Wild River Wilderness Area. This wilderness area is relatively new and is one of my favorites in the country.

    There are several established campsites in the Wilderness Area, most of which had shelters at one point that were taken down once it received the Wilderness designation. However, the areas are still established camping areas with tent cribbing and many have established fire rings and National Forest Service signage. I will try to add those camping areas and review them based on their names and not lump them into one review. 

    That being said, this particular review is focused on camping in the Wilderness outside of designated sites. In our household, we call this "bush crashing." In May of this year, the Dyrt magazine published a helpful article about this very thing and you can check it out here: https://thedyrt.com/magazine/lifestyle/free-camping-national-forests/

    There is plenty of "dispersed" (aka bush crashing) available in the Wild River Wilderness. Just keep in mind that some areas are not open to camping, mainly Forest Protection Areas that are generally located within a 1/4 mile from trail heads and established designated campsites. Otherwise, just find a spot 100-200 feet from water and the trail and you're golden. On this particular trip we parked at the Wild River Campground (fee required to park here) and headed into the woods via the Wild River Trail. Once you're in the wilderness area, keep your eyes pealed for any flat-ish spot up from the river and you won't be disappointed. 

    Just remember, dispersed camping can be a little bit of a shock if you're used to rolling up to an established and/or maintained camping area. It will not look like what you may expect, so don't be disheartened or deterred. You can still make a cozy home for the night. Be sure to bring a stove to cook one, as fires are not permitted outside of designated sites. Also be prepared to dispose of your solid human waste per Leave No Trace principles (back a WAG bag or trowel). There's a lot to explore and with the ability to camp just about anywhere you want, there's no need to worry about mileage or a camp site being full. The world is your oyster when you hone the art of bush crashing!

  • Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2017

    Hastings Campground

    Nice Fall Camping

    This U.S. Forest Service campground is small but meticulously maintained. It is clear that the USFS and campground hosts care about this space. Our campsite was freshly raked in and around the picnic table and fire ring. The entire campground and facilities are pristine. I especially appreciated the clear but non-passive aggressive signs throughout the campground.

    Most sites are nicely shaded with nice tall hardwoods, though some times have more sun than shade. Our site had an exceptionally long picnic table which was nice. There are two vault toilet buildings and a large old fashioned water pump to get fresh water. This campground is bare bones but still close enough (about a 25 minute drive) to the nearest town in case you need access to supplies.

    There is one small loop with 24 campsites, some of which are reservable online. Sites are $18/night and there is a self pay station as you enter the campground. This campground is located right off route 113 so can be a little bit loud especially during foliage on their motorcycles. So if you want more peace and quite check out the Wild River campground (it's 5.5 miles down a USFS dirt road).

    The campground was virtually empty but I imagine it might get busy in the summer!

  • Sarah C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 3, 2021

    Basin Campground

    Stunning Scenery & Swimming!

    Absolutely beautiful spot! This campground has a day use area with a boat launch and picnic area on the right as you drive in. Non-motorized boats are allowed on the water and it’s a great swim spot in the summer. The water is surrounded by beautiful cliffs with hiking opportunities readily available. The water is a short walk from all of the sites, some are obviously closer than others. 

    The sites are well spaced and quite large. I greatly appreciated the crushed rock vs. sandy soil especially given the amount of rain we got during our stay. The camp hosts were helpful and definitely out and about throughout the day. 

    Sites have fire rings and large picnic tables, as well as flat space to pitch a tent or two depending on the size. There was some variance in the size of the sites, some of which required walking up a few steps from the parking spot to the site. Not a big deal but helpful to know if negotiating stairs is an issue for you. 

    Fresh water spigots are spaced between sites and there is one bath house with flush toilets. Note: there is no soap or paper towels/hand dryer in the restroom. Be prepared and bring your own.

Guide to North Turner

Camping opportunities near North Turner, Maine extend beyond the immediate town into surrounding forested areas. This region sits at the edge of the western Maine foothills, with elevations ranging from 300-500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F with cool evenings dropping to 50-60°F, while spring and fall camping seasons bring substantial temperature fluctuations requiring layered clothing.

What to do

Kayaking access points: At Tiny Cabins of Maine, campers appreciate the water-based activities available directly from the campground. "Kayaking in the pond was a highlight, thanks to the convenient dock," noted Paige A., who also mentioned enjoying the on-site pub games and axe throwing.

Hiking nearby trails: The White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road provides direct access to hiking trails. According to Jason R., "Highwater trail with bridge close by... Trailhead at end of road." This dispersed camping area connects campers with the Evans Notch section of White Mountains National Forest.

Apple picking in season: Boothby's Orchard offers unique orchard camping when available. Asher K. recommends: "Make sure to check out some of the amazing hiking in the area if you stay here and dont forget to eat some apples." The orchard camping is primarily available during special events.

What campers like

Privacy between sites: Campers consistently note the privacy at dispersed sites. Amanda B. from White Mountains Camping explains, "It's easy to forget there are other people camping on other sites because they're so far apart. It's wonderfully relaxing and quiet."

Natural water features: Many primitive campsites offer stream or river access. Jason R. mentions that at White Mountains Camping, "Creek runs through road near sites good for getting water to filter or washing." Access to natural water sources proves valuable for extended stays.

Stargazing opportunities: The reduced light pollution makes for excellent night sky viewing. "Great stars," notes Jason R. from his experience at White Mountains Camping on Little Larry Road. For optimal viewing, choose more remote sites away from town lights.

What you should know

Cell service considerations: Coverage varies significantly by carrier and location. Kevin H. reports from White Mountains Camping: "Just enough t-mobile / starlink signal to watch streaming and message, but wouldn't be enough for remote work." For better connectivity, he suggests: "We went to the White Mountain National Forest Picnic area off the main road about 5 minutes away and had great signal."

Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites require self-sufficiency. Amanda B. advises those heading to White Mountains Camping: "The only thing I regret not bringing with me is a table to put my camp stove on." Pack everything you'll need including water for filtering.

Road conditions: Access roads to remote sites may present challenges. Rhonda H. notes about Riverbend Campground: "Just a beautiful, wild spot," but many access roads in the region remain unpaved and potentially difficult after rain.

Tips for camping with families

Platform tents for comfort: Some sites offer raised platforms for easier family camping. Paige A. appreciated that at Tiny Cabins of Maine, "The tent camping amenities, including the pop-up toilet and sturdy wooden platform, were thoughtfully provided." These platforms keep tents drier during wet conditions.

Wildlife awareness: The region hosts various wildlife including bears. Kt warns about White Mountains Camping: "Upper two top sites beware of bears especially the right side site. Game trail heaven." Store food properly and teach children appropriate wildlife safety.

Alternative accommodations: For families new to camping, Remote Sites — Umbagog Lake State Park offers a blend of remote feeling with more structure. Nancy B. shares, "My son and I took a hired boat out to an island. The boat took all our camping stuff and 2 kayaks! We stayed three nights. There are tent platforms, picnic table and fire pit at each site."

Tips from RVers

Site selection for large vehicles: Limited options exist for larger RVs near North Turner. Jake C. notes that Mac's Camping Area has "large RV Sites with access to their private beach & boat launch!" The limited number of RV-suitable campgrounds means reservations are essential during peak season.

Hookup availability: Most dispersed tent campsites near North Turner lack RV hookups. Focus on established campgrounds like Mac's Camping Area for necessary services including water, electric, and dump stations when traveling with recreational vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near North Turner, ME?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near North Turner, ME is Boothby's Orchard with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near North Turner, ME?

TheDyrt.com has all 23 tent camping locations near North Turner, ME, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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