Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, North Waterford, ME is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—North Waterford is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near North Waterford, ME. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.
Papoose Pond Campground is the favorite camping resort of thousands of families throughout New England. We’re located in the mountains of Western Maine on picture perfect, Papoose Pond. Our half-mile sandy beach, 30’X60′ heated swimming pool, 180 campsites and more than 55 rental cottages, cabins and trailers provide the facilities for the ideal vacation. We offer more than 100 planned activities and nightly entertainment each week during our mid-season. Rent one of our 50 Canoes, Kayaks, Paddleboats, Rowboats, or bring your own. Mini-Golf, Tennis, Bocce, Volleyball, Horseshoes, Basketball, Softball, Weekly Tournaments, 3 playgrounds and our Antique Carousel are only a few of the reasons the whole family will enjoy Maine’s Premiere Family Resort. Experience Papoose Pond by trying one of our popular Weekend Escapes in June or September. One price includes everything – accommodations, 5 great meals and the use of all our boats, mini-golf, a hayride and our carousel. It’s a great deal. Ask your friends or check us out online at www.papoosepondcamping.com Come visit Papoose Pond Campground and discover for yourself why more than 80% of our guests return year after year.
$25 / night
Opened to the public in 1938, Sebago Lake State park camping was one of the five original state parks of America. Nestled near the foothills of the White Mountains the park’s 1,400 acres of vast woodlands, sandy beaches, vibrant ponds, and deep emerald bogs inspire wonder and awe. A windy river snakes through one of the oldest historical locks in the region; while surrounding miles of expansive land create diverse habitats for a variety of plant and wildlife.
Sebago Lake was carved by ancient rivers and Ice Age Glacier fallout. The now filled granite basin provides recreation and watersport activities to thousands every year. The region is an impressive feat of scenery, boasting dense forests of pine, aspen, and birchwood. A multitude of these directly touch the shore of Maine’s deepest and second largest lake.
Subsequently, Sebago Lake Campground provides year-round camping and recreation to thousands. There are a number of popular activities, including lake (and river) swimming, sport fishing, camping, and even boating. The summer is especially busy thanks to the variety of large trees creating an abundance of breezy, shaded areas to escape the heat and hide the perfect makeshift rope swing.
Unique to this area is the historic Songo Lock, the last surviving lock of Cumberland and Oxford Canal, built in the 19th century. It can be found directly on the Songo River, just above the intersection of Crooked River and the Northern End of Sebago Lake State Park in the town of Naples. The lock was built in 1830, featuring granite walls with real wooden control gates to control water levels. Other locks have since been updated, however this has been preserved for its historical relevance.
Camping here provides the right environment for romantic nights under the stars, and misty mornings on the lake. There are 250 campsites available year-round, although tent camping here in the winter will get pretty chilly. That said, cross country skiing and distance snowshoeing are extremely popular winter activities. The campground also has good park service, various group picnic shelters, a fully functional playground, RV dumping station, and a limited amount of RV hookups for electric and water. There are even showers with working hot water, and facilities nearby for laundry.
Don’t skip out on Lake Sebago State Park. It’s a blast for anyone willing to put themselves through the effort of packing the car up and getting out there. There’s a ton to do, with giddy feelings and laughs around the campfire. The region is well maintained, with all the benefits of a beachside resort without the expensive costs. If you don’t mind paving your own fun, you’ll be rewarded exponentially on the shores of Lake Sebago.
$25 - $30 / night
Located 6 miles south of Gorham, New Hampshire at the base of New England's tallest peak, the historic Dolly Copp Campground is a large facility that accommodates a range of campers and provides access to some of the most popular hikes in the White Mountains. Lush forests, spectacular mountain views and convenience to outdoor recreation and scenic driving draw visitors from all over to Dolly Copp. The surrounding White Mountain National Forest encompasses nearly 800,000 acres in New Hampshire and western Maine, and is one of the most popular forests in the country.
The campground is a hub for hikes into the Presidential and Carter-Moriah Ranges. The Daniel Webster Scout Trail leads from the campground into the Great Gulf Wilderness on the northeast side of Mount Washington. Many more miles of trails can be accessed within a short drive. Within the facility, anglers can try their luck for brook trout in the creek and river. Families can learn more through educational programs presented on weekends in July and August. The end of the camping season may also bring great opportunities for viewing fall foliage. Learn more about recreation in the national forest.
Dolly Copp is situated in a mixed hardwood, spruce and pine forest at the base of 6,288-ft. Mount Washington, the highest peak north of the Smoky Mountains and east of the Mississippi River. The Peabody River and Culhane Brook pass through the facility. The national forest is home to many species of northern wildlife, including moose, white-tailed deer and black bear. Almost 200 species of birds, including the rare Bicknell's Thrush, live in the White Mountains. Summer temperatures are often very pleasant; however mountain weather can change drastically, putting visitors at risk for exposure to cold, rain and snow even during summer. Campers should come prepared.
Numerous hiking trails, mountain biking trails and rock climbing routes are within a short drive of the campground. The nearby towns of North Conway, Jackson and Gorham provide shops, restaurants, supplies and other conveniences. In clear weather, confident campers can try the drive up the steep Mount Washington Auto Road to catch a view from the Northeast's highest peak. Guided tours are also available. The Cog Railway ascends the other side of the mountain, and is about an hour drive from Dolly Copp.
$34 / night
Over 200 generously sized sites, all with large picnic tables and fire rings.
Crawford Notch Campground is a family-owned and operated campground nestled in the heart of the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Scenic Crawford Notch is well known for its awe-inspiring views, majestic mountains, unspoiled wilderness, and miles of hiking trails. Our wooded setting along the banks of the Saco River features secluded campsites and log cabins.
$25 / night
Located in the heart of Mount Washington Valley, Jellystone Park™ Glen Ellis offers a picturesque camping experience the whole family will enjoy. Get out and explore nature by kayaking, tubing, or fishing the two rivers, watching a sunset over the mountains, or hiking the Whites. Whether you prefer to sleep under the stars in a tent, or set up your RV, Jellystone Park™ has a spot with your name on it – start planning your getaway today!
Basin Campground is located in a rustic, remote part of White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire, about 15 miles north of Fryeburg, Maine. It is a small facility with access to hiking and mountain biking trails and proximity to a small pond for fishing and canoeing. The White Mountains boast pristine forests, clear mountain streams and rivers and the tallest peaks in the Northeast. The forest encompasses nearly 800,000 acres in New Hampshire and western Maine, and is one of the most popular in the country.
Hikers will enjoy exploring the 4.5-mile Basin Trail, which leaves from campground, and numerous other hiking and mountain biking trails within a short drive. Trout fishing is available in Basin Pond. The pond's calm waters are also ideal for canoeing. The area hosts four alpine and five nordic ski areas, which provide year-round recreation opportunities such as skiing, hiking, mountain biking, outdoor concerts, interpretive trails, special events and regional and national skiing and snowboarding races. Learn more about recreation in the national forest.
The campground is in a pleasant mixed hardwood forest a short distance from the 23-acre Basin Pond. The national forest is home to many species of northern wildlife, including moose, white-tailed deer and black bear. Almost 200 species of birds, including the rare Bicknell's Thrush, live in the White Mountains.
The town of Fryeburg, Maine has groceries, restaurants and gas. Campers might enjoy a scenic day trip to the Presidential Range, which consists of the tallest mountains in the forest, including the 6,288-ft. Mount Washington, the highest peak north of the Smoky Mountains and east of the Mississippi River.
$22 / night
Papoose Pond Campground is the favorite camping resort of thousands of families throughout New England. We’re located in the mountains of Western Maine on picture perfect, Papoose Pond. Our half-mile sandy beach, 30’X60′ heated swimming pool, 180 campsites and more than 55 rental cottages, cabins and trailers provide the facilities for the ideal vacation. We offer more than 100 planned activities and nightly entertainment each week during our mid-season. Rent one of our 50 Canoes, Kayaks, Paddleboats, Rowboats, or bring your own. Mini-Golf, Tennis, Bocce, Volleyball, Horseshoes, Basketball, Softball, Weekly Tournaments, 3 playgrounds and our Antique Carousel are only a few of the reasons the whole family will enjoy Maine’s Premiere Family Resort. Experience Papoose Pond by trying one of our popular Weekend Escapes in June or September. One price includes everything – accommodations, 5 great meals and the use of all our boats, mini-golf, a hayride and our carousel. It’s a great deal. Ask your friends or check us out online at www.papoosepondcamping.com Come visit Papoose Pond Campground and discover for yourself why more than 80% of our guests return year after year.
$25 / night
Opened to the public in 1938, Sebago Lake State park camping was one of the five original state parks of America. Nestled near the foothills of the White Mountains the park’s 1,400 acres of vast woodlands, sandy beaches, vibrant ponds, and deep emerald bogs inspire wonder and awe. A windy river snakes through one of the oldest historical locks in the region; while surrounding miles of expansive land create diverse habitats for a variety of plant and wildlife.
Sebago Lake was carved by ancient rivers and Ice Age Glacier fallout. The now filled granite basin provides recreation and watersport activities to thousands every year. The region is an impressive feat of scenery, boasting dense forests of pine, aspen, and birchwood. A multitude of these directly touch the shore of Maine’s deepest and second largest lake.
Subsequently, Sebago Lake Campground provides year-round camping and recreation to thousands. There are a number of popular activities, including lake (and river) swimming, sport fishing, camping, and even boating. The summer is especially busy thanks to the variety of large trees creating an abundance of breezy, shaded areas to escape the heat and hide the perfect makeshift rope swing.
Unique to this area is the historic Songo Lock, the last surviving lock of Cumberland and Oxford Canal, built in the 19th century. It can be found directly on the Songo River, just above the intersection of Crooked River and the Northern End of Sebago Lake State Park in the town of Naples. The lock was built in 1830, featuring granite walls with real wooden control gates to control water levels. Other locks have since been updated, however this has been preserved for its historical relevance.
Camping here provides the right environment for romantic nights under the stars, and misty mornings on the lake. There are 250 campsites available year-round, although tent camping here in the winter will get pretty chilly. That said, cross country skiing and distance snowshoeing are extremely popular winter activities. The campground also has good park service, various group picnic shelters, a fully functional playground, RV dumping station, and a limited amount of RV hookups for electric and water. There are even showers with working hot water, and facilities nearby for laundry.
Don’t skip out on Lake Sebago State Park. It’s a blast for anyone willing to put themselves through the effort of packing the car up and getting out there. There’s a ton to do, with giddy feelings and laughs around the campfire. The region is well maintained, with all the benefits of a beachside resort without the expensive costs. If you don’t mind paving your own fun, you’ll be rewarded exponentially on the shores of Lake Sebago.
$25 - $30 / night
Located 6 miles south of Gorham, New Hampshire at the base of New England's tallest peak, the historic Dolly Copp Campground is a large facility that accommodates a range of campers and provides access to some of the most popular hikes in the White Mountains. Lush forests, spectacular mountain views and convenience to outdoor recreation and scenic driving draw visitors from all over to Dolly Copp. The surrounding White Mountain National Forest encompasses nearly 800,000 acres in New Hampshire and western Maine, and is one of the most popular forests in the country.
The campground is a hub for hikes into the Presidential and Carter-Moriah Ranges. The Daniel Webster Scout Trail leads from the campground into the Great Gulf Wilderness on the northeast side of Mount Washington. Many more miles of trails can be accessed within a short drive. Within the facility, anglers can try their luck for brook trout in the creek and river. Families can learn more through educational programs presented on weekends in July and August. The end of the camping season may also bring great opportunities for viewing fall foliage. Learn more about recreation in the national forest.
Dolly Copp is situated in a mixed hardwood, spruce and pine forest at the base of 6,288-ft. Mount Washington, the highest peak north of the Smoky Mountains and east of the Mississippi River. The Peabody River and Culhane Brook pass through the facility. The national forest is home to many species of northern wildlife, including moose, white-tailed deer and black bear. Almost 200 species of birds, including the rare Bicknell's Thrush, live in the White Mountains. Summer temperatures are often very pleasant; however mountain weather can change drastically, putting visitors at risk for exposure to cold, rain and snow even during summer. Campers should come prepared.
Numerous hiking trails, mountain biking trails and rock climbing routes are within a short drive of the campground. The nearby towns of North Conway, Jackson and Gorham provide shops, restaurants, supplies and other conveniences. In clear weather, confident campers can try the drive up the steep Mount Washington Auto Road to catch a view from the Northeast's highest peak. Guided tours are also available. The Cog Railway ascends the other side of the mountain, and is about an hour drive from Dolly Copp.
$34 / night
Scout
I have been there earlier this month during a week day for a last minute break from work. Experience was great. Not only the ambiance (one of the rare locations to be just in front of this beautiful river) but also the location that is near all key hiking trails and attractions (ski resorts, breweries and restaurants).
Ranger
Very nice campground. Plenty of space for 2 vehicles in campsite. Sites are spacious and and shaded. Flush toilets well stocked and clean. Showers available at camp store. Very nice and helpful staff. Surprising that campground does not allow pets. The campground is close to main road and was noisy at night. Visitor center and Flume Trail are nearby.
Scout
Have stayed at all upper sites. Beautiful serene and quiet. Site 4 and 5 get some cell service. Upper two top sites beware of bears especially the right side site. Game trail heaven. Amazing little larry brook. Great flat sites except top two. Highly recommend
Scout
Great spot w an exception of local officer Rowe. Comes to site unannounced or invited then fabricates the visit.
Other than that it's wonderful. Some really amazing river sites. Moose pond at top left fork has reception as well as lower gate.
Scout
Slice of heaven! One of the most unique and ruggedly wonderful stays I've had. Be sure to visit the emerald pool just across the Hiking trail bridge..
Legend
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.
Guide
Loved this campground! Quiet and pretty private spots - outer loop a bit more. Great facilities w wash sink - nice camp store and not at all too close to town! 20 min drive to Mt Washington (be sure to check weather as we had rain at the campground which was ice on the mtn so we couldn’t go to top/they stopped us halfway.)
Ranger
Your typical first-come first-served National Forest campground with vault toilets and handpump water. The Albany Covered Bridge is a short walk away.
ScoutHad everything we needed
Scout
Very nice place. Lots of spots for tents and RV, I believe all of them with fireplace. Quiet and clean.
ScoutWe pulled in around 7:30 pm on a Sunday night and there were plenty of open spots. We took a huge one. Found a fairly flat area and stayed for the night.
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
ScoutGreat sites. Some right.on water. First come first serve, can get busy.
Traveler
Run down. Owner nice.
Traveler
About 1km (.6 miles) of gravel road, easy enough for a big road bike, but don’t go any further as it gets rough. Plenty of trees to hang your hammock. Enough space to put up to 3-5 tents. No fire allowed. Would be really quiet if not for the road across the lake. I saw one truck in the evening and one in the morning.
Traveler
I found this place on The Dyrt app, so I came to check it out, I made a reservation online just to make sure I guaranteed my spot when I arrived, which I didn’t had to worry about either way because there was lots of empty spaces, but you never know, even though I made my reservation my spot didn’t have my name on it or any information about when I was suppose to arrive and leave, there was nobody there, but made me wonder if there was someone already there, besides that, it’s a great place to camping, clean, quite, bathroom was close by, shower and everything, besides all that I was able to use my phone with no problems, I have AT&T btw, there is a Dunkin, General store and a gas station like 3 minutes driving, which is great in case you forgot to buy something or are too lazy to make coffee and breakfast, I stayed for 2 night, can’t complain, and will come back for sure, I highly recommend this place, although I recommend to get the side from 33 to 57 it’s on the other side and not too close from the highway.
Ranger
Came into the area after 7 PM on a Tuesday and found several open sites. We stayed one night in campsite 9. This site is about 90 yards from the fire tower trailhead.
Site #9 goes back about 70 to 80 feet back off the road. There appears to have been a longer site, but the Forest Service placed boulders blacking vehicles from going further. Just past the boulders is a large fire circle with room for 6 to 8 campers to sit around the fire.
We were able to collect sunlight onto our solar panel from the site.
The camp site are all disbursed enough that we did not hear any other camping sounds at all. It was so quiet I could hear the sound of crow wings flapping as they flew by.
We enjoyed a spectacular view of the Blood Super Moon from the campsite. Overall the site was open to the sky nea3 the road yet protected from the wind.
The only downside was the lack of any other amenities. As far as disbursed camping in the national forest, this place is not a decent unpaved road and our campsite was only about 3 miles from the highway.
Ranger
We came into the park on a Wednesday in mid September and found that over half the spaces were open. We grabbed a spot about 60 feet from the lake.
The camping sites are large enough for a tent and a couple of vehicles. There are a few larger sites here and there. Sites are very close to neighboring camp sites so Privacy is poor
There are very nice bathroom facilities with hot showers, dish rinsing sinks and hot showers.
The view from the lake is amazing. We walked to the beach every morning with our chairs for coffee. VERY RELAXING!
There is a building near the entrance of the state park that says its a store but it looks pretty old and closed.
The young lady who delivered our park permit was exceptionally friendly and helpful. However, the people that clean the restrooms are about as polite as construction workers in Queens. They do have a garbage dumpster but it is located about a mile from the campground. Not very convenient for tent or van camping.
Overall the price charged for the sites seems higher than the value received.
Ranger
The each campsite is nice and private--I was lucky enough to get a site on the lake for my stay! The shower houses/restrooms are amazing--one big open room with a large shower, toilet, sink, bench, and towel rack. The only downside is you have to press the button for the shower to run, and it's only a few seconds each push, so you're constantly pressing a button as you're mid scrubbing. But hey--after a long day of hiking or swimming, that's no big deal!
Ranger
The campground was nice and quiet during our stay, but the pit toilets near our campsite were quite rough--super smelly and an endless amount of flies flying out of the toilet.
Ranger
The staff was very nice and helpful during our stay. There are a variety of sites to choose from and a bunch of things to do around the campground. The campground store also had a good supply of items, too. It sounds like the new owners are making improvements around the campground, so I'm excited to see how it comes along if I'm in the area again in the future!
Ranger
Stayed for a night while passing through the area. Lots of space between sites and very clean facilities. Would stay again.
Ranger
I was lucky to snag one of the couple remaining campsites on a Saturday afternoon. The sites are spacious, the bathrooms with flush toilets are clean enough, and the river nearby is a great spot to rock-hop if you're not too busy hiking the many amazing trails in the area.
Traveler
Great campsite!
Bear box, food area, water source, cabin, Privy, and platforms.
Scout
Such a cute little spot for a nice get away, wood fired hot tub, and sauna. Would recommend this place to anyone!
Traveler
Stayed 5 nights with family on the next sight, great place for kids with lots of variety, animals and low traffic back roads for bike riding. Reserve early if you want hookups.
Traveler
We had a great stay at white lake state park. I was surprised that there was only a large log separating our site from the next one but luckily it was just my brothers family so it wasn’t awkward. Our sites (2-11 and 2-11a) survived a 2 hour monsoon with some water running through but other sites had some major flooding so just something to be cognizant of.
TravelerWe were there June 26-30, 2024 for a Hiker Trailer Campout. We had 17 trailers and 30 people. Lafayette Place was the perfect place for an event like that. The water points and restrooms were placed well throughout the campground. The quarter operated showers were nice and hot and very good pressure and flow. Our campsite (79) was a bit uphill from the road, but easily negotiable. As others have noted, there is a bit of noise from Rt. 93.
Camping near North Waterford, Maine, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near North Waterford, Maine, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near North Waterford, ME?
According to TheDyrt.com, North Waterford, ME offers a wide range of camping options, with 249 campgrounds and RV parks near North Waterford, ME and 11 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near North Waterford, ME?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near North Waterford, ME is Papoose Pond Family Campground and Cabins with a 4.9-star rating from 14 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near North Waterford, ME?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 free dispersed camping spots near North Waterford, ME.
What parks are near North Waterford, ME?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near North Waterford, ME that allow camping, notably Union Village Dam and Hopkinton-Everett Lake.
