Cabin rentals near Stow, Maine operate primarily from May through October, with most sites closing after Columbus Day weekend. Winter access to cabins in this area is limited due to seasonal road closures in the White Mountain National Forest. The region sits at elevations ranging from 500-1,000 feet, creating natural temperature variations between valley campgrounds and those at higher elevations. Cabin rentals tend to book 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends.
What to do
River activities: Explore the Saco River system that runs through multiple campgrounds in the region. At Eastern Slope Camping Area, one camper noted, "This is a nice little campground if you're doing the Saco, has a nice bath house, has a bunch of campsites, a good store that has everything that you might have forgotten! The river is right there and you can splash around in it." The Saco River offers gentle currents suitable for beginners.
Wildlife watching: Look for bears and other animals from the safety of your cabin. At Jellystone Park™ Glen Ellis, one visitor shared, "We spent 5 days and wished it was longer. There were 2 active bears while we were there. They circled our camper at night. It was incredible to watch. Of course we never left any food out!" Rangers at most campgrounds provide wildlife safety briefings upon check-in.
Hiking: Access nearby trails directly from some cabin properties. The Covered Bridge campground connects to hiking trails: "The campground is clean and well kept. Extra bonus is the Boulder Loop Trail that is attached to the campground(it's relatively short, offers several great vista views, and you can walk there from the campground and not have to deal with parking)." Most trails are marked with difficulty ratings at trailheads.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Some cabins offer seclusion while others prioritize convenience. At White Birches Camping Park, "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. 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."
Water access: Lakefront and riverside cabins provide immediate water access. At Lakeside Pines Campground, "We had a beautiful waterfront campsite (Site 113). The lake is gorgeous. Rocks make direct access to the water from the site difficult, but there is a beach for water access not too far away." Swimming areas typically range from 2-5 feet in depth near shore.
Winter options: Some cabins remain accessible in colder months. One visitor to Doublehead Cabin shared, "Great place year round. For those looking for some powder runs in the winter, camp here over night and do some touring during the day!" Winter cabins often require advanced planning as road access becomes limited after snowfall.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Many cabins close after Columbus Day and reopen in May. At Moose Brook State Park Campground, the season runs from "May 5 to November 4." Most facilities shut down water systems after the first freeze.
Primitive vs. luxury: Cabin amenities vary widely across the region. Some cabins include only beds and basic furniture while others offer kitchen facilities. One visitor at Timberland Campground mentioned, "When I stayed I had family staying so I rented one of their rental trailers. The bedroom wall was leaking at the headboard when it rained and there was even a hole in the wall from the water damage and warping."
Road access: Some cabins have restrictions on vehicle size or type. The Covered Bridge campground has specific height requirements: "To reach it from the Kanc, you'll need to cross the covered bridge where there's a height restriction. If your rig is >7'9" you'll need to enter via Passaconaway Rd via West Side Rd in Conway."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Check water depth and current before letting children swim. At Papoose Pond Family Campground and Cabins, "We have tent camped here for a week (if not twice) every summer for the last 5 years. Pond with rentals, pool, mini golf, daily activities, crafts....so family friendly." Most beach areas include shallow sections marked for younger children.
Entertainment options: Look for campgrounds with scheduled activities for different age groups. At Jellystone Park Glen Ellis, "They have lots of activities to do during the day, especially for the kids. There are a lot of campgrounds in the area that bill themselves as family campgrounds, but really aren't. This is place truly is a great family campground."
Off-peak benefits: Consider shoulder season visits when campgrounds are less crowded. Weekdays in September often offer cabin availability with fewer neighbors and lower rates. Eastern Slope Camping Area provides "Quiet and friendly. Great for the family fun," according to one visitor who stayed outside peak season.
Tips from RVers
Site preparation: Check cabin dimensions before arrival to ensure they match your needs. Many cabins advertise maximum occupancy but provide limited floor space. At White Birches Camping Park, "Varied sites that have what most are looking for. Some open sites up front with wooded sites further in. 2 bathroom areas with showers and laundry at the office area."
Utilities: Confirm which utilities are included with your cabin rental. Not all cabins include electricity or running water. Some cabins require guests to bring bedding, cooking equipment, and water containers. Others include these amenities but charge additional fees.
