Tent camping in Phillips, Maine offers wilderness experiences at elevations between 1,100 and 4,000 feet across the Western Maine Mountains. Summer nights typically drop to 50°F even when daytime temperatures reach 80°F, requiring appropriate sleeping gear. Dirt roads accessing many sites become challenging after rainfall, with 4x4 vehicles recommended for remote locations.
What to do
Paddle to island campsites: At Stephen Phillips Memorial Preserve Wilderness, campers can rent canoes to access secluded spots. "You can either stay on the mainland and walk your belongings to the site, or use the canoes to transport your gear to the island. We've loved both, but prefer the island simply because we know our dogs can't go far!" reports Emily R.
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "I've personally never seen so many stars as I did out on the lake in the evenings," notes a Phillips Preserve visitor. Campers regularly report identifying constellations and occasionally the Milky Way without telescopes.
Hiking the Bigelow range: Sites at Round Barn Campsites provide direct access to mountain trails. "It is right next to the stafford brook trail to hike to the top of Bigelow and you can easily hike from your campsite to the top of the mountain and back within a day," explains Xzavier.
What campers like
Water proximity: Many campers value sites with immediate water access. At Myers Lodge East, visitors appreciate "having water access right from our site and the ability to park within steps of our tent," according to Anna W., who adds that the area offers "AMAZING water and mountain views."
Minimal noise pollution: The absence of human-made sounds creates a natural soundscape. "The only sounds you will hear at night are the loons!" reports Sarah C. about Smudge Cove, which offers "a lovely amount of privacy."
Wildlife encounters: Morning moose sightings occur regularly at lakeside sites. "Moose come right through the campground at night. It's amazing," reports Melissa N. about her experience at Cupsuptic Campgrounds, where wildlife observation opportunities abound without leaving your campsite.
What you should know
Limited site availability: Popular locations fill quickly, especially on weekends. "Stopped in to try and camp here, all the spots were taken. There were even people camping in their rooftop tents," reports Miccal M. about Round Barn Campsites, indicating the need for early arrival, particularly during summer months.
Weather preparedness: Rapid weather changes affect water-accessible sites. At Phillips Preserve, Melissa G. warns that "weather can change quickly out there. Gets windy. So be prepared." Wind gusts on larger lakes can exceed 20 mph even on otherwise calm days.
Water sources vary: Some sites have unreliable seasonal water sources. At Moose Falls Campsite within Bigelow Ecological Reserve, Paul S. found that the "'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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites: Beginners should start with sites offering basic facilities. "Nice campground. Super friendly people. Very busy campground, but everyone is very respectful. Great place for kids and families," reports a visitor about Cupsuptic Lake Park & Campground, noting that "bathrooms and showers very clean."
Beach access options: Several locations offer swimming areas suitable for children. Round Barn Campsites has "a nice beach area big enough to accommodate however many people you bring," according to Xzavier, who notes the protected swimming conditions where "the cove makes for safe swimming away from the wind and waves offshore."
Insect protection: Bug activity peaks June through August. Erika H. reports sites can be "incredibly buggy" at Cupsuptic Lake Park. Families should bring appropriate repellent, clothing, and mesh shelters, particularly for evening meals when mosquito activity intensifies.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Approach roads require careful driving and clearance consideration. "The Road is rough, but with care you can get there, just go slow," advises Miccal M. about accessing Round Barn Campsites. Many access roads remain unpaved with seasonal washouts.
Boondocking requirements: Wilderness camping requires self-sufficiency. "Tented here 30 years ago and in a motor home this year," shares Kevin W. about Maine Huts & Trails, demonstrating that RV camping is possible but requires preparation for limited services.
Site clarification: Verify RV accessibility before arrival. A visitor to Myers Lodge East warns: "It mentioned on this site that it's for RV parking, but that isn't accurate. There is a parking lot (which you cannot camp in) and you must walk in (tent only)." Always call ahead to confirm current access conditions.
