Camping options near Warren, Maine include sites in wooded settings and along lakeshores, most operating from May through mid-October. The area experiences average summer temperatures of 70-80°F during peak camping season, with cooler nights around 50-60°F. Rainfall averages 3-4 inches per month during summer, making waterproof gear essential for early season or fall camping trips.
What to do
Hiking trails: Camden Hills State Park Campground offers immediate access to multiple hiking trails ranging from easy to advanced difficulty directly from your campsite. "The park has around 100 sites that are categorized by size, and allows rvs and tents... The top portion of the park, where all the campsites are, has direct access to Mount Megunticook, and Mount Battie, and offers easy to advanced hikes," notes Heather C., who appreciated being able to complete numerous hikes without leaving the park.
Kayaking and canoeing: Chewonki Campground provides watercraft access to explore tidal rivers. "Kayaking, salt water pool and scenic walking trails blends in with the variety of singing birds under several tall pine trees," writes Cheryl R., who found the campground exceptionally relaxing. The tidal environment creates changing water conditions throughout the day.
Beach access: Sherwood Forest Campsite offers convenient access to Pemaquid Beach. "The path to Pemaquid beach is right at the end of the driveway and not much further to the historic fort. The Pemaquid Point lighthouse is 15 minutes away," explains Kevin W., highlighting the campground's strategic location near several coastal attractions.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Duck Puddle Campground features premium lakeside sites with varied amenities. "The waterfront sites (61-66) offer direct access to the lake and have trees between the site for a more private feel. Some have a private dock for fishing or sitting, others have a small beach area," reports K R., who prefers visiting during quieter shoulder seasons for maximum enjoyment of these premium locations.
Spacious sites: Shore Hills Campground provides diverse site options to match different camping preferences. "The campground has a wide variety of sites that can accommodate everything from the biggest size RV to tents. Some of their 30-amp waterfront sites come with great views. They also have some sites tucked in the woods that are super wide with huge patios and lots of privacy between you and your neighbor," notes Nancy W., detailing the range of available accommodations.
Community activities: Searsport Shores Ocean Campground organizes regular gatherings for guests. "They have casual jam sessions every night around the bonfire (bring your instrument and they'll fit you in!) and the lobster bake on Saturdays," shares Grace M., who appreciated the friendly, laid-back atmosphere. The campground also features gardens and art installations throughout the property.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Camden Hills State Park Campground offers both wooded and open sites. "Our large back-in site was set in an open sunny area but most of the sites are nicely tucked into the woods with plenty of space between them," explains Nancy W., who notes approximately half the sites have water and electric hookups while others have no hookups.
Reservation policies: Camden Hills State Park Campground has specific booking rules. "Reservations can be made on-line but only about half of the sites are reservable leaving the other half for walk-ups. I would advise making reservations if you want to stay over a weekend or during the summer season as this park really fills up," advises Nancy W., highlighting the need to plan ahead during peak periods.
Seasonal considerations: Shoulder seasons offer quieter experiences at many campgrounds. "We love coming to Duck Puddle in the shoulder season (spring and fall) when it's quiet," reports K R. Similarly, Missy R. notes about Camden Hills, "I was worried when I decided to come to this part of Maine in the fall without reservations. It's early October, and I learned that Maine State Parks are first come first serve at this point. I was pleasantly surprised to arrive and find plenty of vacant spots."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Sennebec Lake Campground offers recreational facilities for children. "There is a small arcade, store, and 24/7 laundry. Activities started up again this year, with events such as kids' crafts, a kids vs adults water gun fight, cornhole competition, and a DJ for an evening of dancing - just on the weekend we were there," reports Pam A., who has camped there for three consecutive years with children.
Beach activities: Duck Puddle Campground provides swimming areas for children. "Great beach for swimming, playground for playing. We have already booked our next trip in a few weeks!" enthuses Andrew G., who found the campground suitable for family recreation during warmer months.
Special events: Shore Hills Campground hosts seasonal activities. "A great place to escape to nature. Bring, rent or buy a Kayak or canoe," suggests Peter G., pointing to water recreation as a primary family activity. Nancy W. adds that "nearby is the Ovens Mouth Preserve which has great hiking and nice water views," offering additional family exploration options.
Tips for RVers
Site accessibility: Shore Hills Campground & RV Park accommodates larger rigs with varying site types. "The roads to our site were easy to navigate with our 45' RV and tow car but the check-in area near the office is very small and tight and at times, it was very backed up and RV's were out on the main road," cautions Nancy W., noting potential congestion during busy check-in periods.
Hookup availability: Campgrounds offer varying levels of services for RVs. "We could have chosen lakefront but they were just water and electric and since we were staying 4 days we chose the full hookup in a nicely wooded site," explains Carol C. about Duck Puddle Campground, highlighting the tradeoff between premium locations and full-service hookups.
Leveling requirements: Camden Hills State Park has well-maintained sites. "Sites and patios are gravel and level with a picnic table and fire pit," reports Nancy W., which minimizes setup time. She adds, "Although the park accommodates larger RV's, there are a limited number of sites for those over 35 feet and the gravel roads are easy to navigate in a big rig."
