Seasonal glamping in Stillwater, Maine generally operates from May through mid-October, with temperatures ranging from daytime highs of 75°F in summer to 40°F during spring and fall. The area sits at approximately 130 feet elevation with pine forests and freshwater lakes characterizing the landscape. Water access varies significantly between properties, with some offering direct lakefront sites and others requiring short walks to reach swimming areas.
What to do
Kayaking on Branch Lake: Branch Lake Camping Area offers 26.5 miles of shoreline perimeter and depths reaching 124 feet for paddling enthusiasts. Some waterfront sites allow direct kayak launching. "We had loons come in close to our site. Saw an Eagle too. We sat our chairs in the water and cooled down everyday and floated on our noodles," reports a visitor at Branch Lake Camping Area.
Wildlife watching: The lakes and ponds around Stillwater attract diverse wildlife viewable from many campsites. "The lake has 26.5 miles perimeter and a maximum depth of 124'. We had loons come in close to our site. Saw an Eagle too," notes a camper at Branch Lake Camping Area.
Disconnect from technology: Several glamping sites offer intentionally limited connectivity. "It is very quiet and there is 0 cell service! Perfect place with lots to do at the campground! Great location to just disconnect from the rest of the world!" shares a visitor at Great Pond Outdoor Recreation Area.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Restrooms and common areas receive consistent praise across multiple properties. "The bathrooms and bath houses are extremely clean," reports a camper at Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA, while another notes "Quick walk to bathrooms & showers, which are very clean" at Bangor Holden KOA.
Helpful staff: Multiple reviews highlight exceptional service at glamping sites. "The staff member was incredible with his directions and helped me back it into a small lot that went down hill and around a corner. I could have hugged him," writes a visitor about Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA.
Convenient access to area attractions: Many glamping options provide strategic positioning for exploring the region. "Close to all the attractions," notes a Paul Bunyan Campground reviewer, while another mentions it's "Close to the cross center and the waterfront concerts."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Proximity to neighbors differs greatly between properties. "Very nice, but expensive and very close quarters," reports one camper about Paul Bunyan Campground. Another notes certain waterfront sites at Bar Harbor Campground are "pretty close together and hard to get."
Seasonal variations affect experience: Black fly season impacts outdoor enjoyment. "Only downside was we went during black fly season, wait until they are gone to be able to enjoy it fully!" advises a Great Pond visitor.
Reservation systems differ: Some properties operate on first-come, first-served basis rather than advance booking. "This large campground over looks Frenchmens bay... No reservations though. Come in early morning and wait for others to leave to grab the best sites," explains a Bar Harbor Campground reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Look for organized activities: Some glamping facilities offer structured programming. "We booked Holden KOA for a quick weekend getaway... Lots of organized activities and great Bingo on Saturday night. We did the pancake breakfast for donation, crafts, and wagon ride during the day," shares a visitor at Bangor Holden KOA.
Consider sites with playgrounds: Multiple facilities offer play areas for children. "The kids loved the playground and the ice cream window," notes a Bangor Holden KOA reviewer, while another mentions "Small kids fishing pond, couple of small older playgrounds, dog walking area" at Pleasant Hill Campground.
Pack for variable weather: Maine temperatures can shift dramatically, even in summer. "We tent camp, without power, so we are way out back. no car noise, Private, a bit of a walk to the showers and bathrooms but the privacy is worth it," explains a Bar Harbor Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Site terrain varies across glamping facilities. "It was raining when we got here but our site was relatively level and we were ok until things dried up and we could finish leveling," shares a camper at Pleasant Hill Campground.
Internet access challenges: WiFi quality varies significantly between properties. "Only real disappointment was lack of cell coverage for AT&T and if you want internet you must buy a package... We paid $69 for 3 devices for 30 days," reports a Pleasant Hill visitor.
Hookup availability: Different sites within the same campground may offer varying utility connections. "Full hookup (sewer, water, 50 AMP). Lots of Amenities. Cons: Gravel site, Not much shade," notes a Bangor Holden KOA reviewer, while another explains "Not all sites full hookup but it's coming next year" at Bar Harbor Campground.