The White Mountains region surrounding West Newfield, Maine sits at elevations ranging from 500-1,000 feet, creating a microclimate that brings cooler nights even during summer months. Campgrounds in this area typically operate from May through October, with most facilities closing after Indigenous Peoples' Day weekend due to seasonal temperature drops. Many sites require advance reservations during peak summer weekends when temperatures average 75-85°F.
What to do
Kayaking on Bunganut Lake: Paddle the quiet waters at Bunganut Lake Camping Area, where kayak and canoe rentals are available seasonally. A camper noted, "The lake is beautiful, a hidden gem," highlighting the peaceful paddling experience available.
Family hayrides at Eastern Slope: At Eastern Slope Camping Area, evening wagon rides are popular with younger campers. "At night they did wagon rides around the campground which our little ones really enjoyed," explains a visitor who appreciated this simple, low-cost activity.
Mountain biking from Sandy Pines: Access trail networks directly from your campsite. "For those so inclined, there is great mountain biking either through the Tyler Preserve down to Cape Porpoise or North through the Emmitt Smith Preserve," shares a camper who enjoyed the direct trail connections.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Chocorua KOA offers waterfront sites with custom amenities. "The waterfront site we had (site 38) was very nice, it's pretty spacious. The deck had furniture on it and a grill," explains a reviewer who enjoyed the lakeside setup.
Sandy beaches for swimming: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming areas with gradual entry points ideal for families. At White Lake State Park Campground, "the swimming area is shallow for quite a distance so you can feel comfortable with kids," according to an experienced camper.
Dog-friendly accommodations: Pets receive special treatment at select campgrounds. One visitor to Acres Of Wildlife Family Campground mentioned, "I felt it was very awesome that they tag your pets incase they get loose somehow then they can be returned to you. They also gift them nice milk bones."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: While some campgrounds offer privacy, others pack sites closely together. A visitor to White Lake State Park Campground observed, "Our site, #02 on Loop 2, was in very close proximity to all of the neighboring sites. We had children on several sides, and a rowdy group of adult men on another side."
Weather considerations: Rain can create challenges at some locations. At Salmon Falls / Lebanon KOA, "The campsite behind ours got totally flooded and the peoples stuff was soaked!" reported one camper after heavy rainfall.
Reservation timing: For prime summer weekends, book months ahead. During holiday periods like July 4th and Labor Day, campgrounds reach capacity quickly. "We stayed on Labor Day weekend, so it was probably louder and more crowded than usual," notes a White Lake visitor who found the campground completely full.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Choose campgrounds with varied play options for different age groups. "There is activities and 2/3 playgrounds. We went 2019 and It was tragic we were cancelled due to corona virus this year," shared an enthusiastic parent about Acres Of Wildlife Family Campground.
Beach access consideration: At some campgrounds, reaching water requires planning. "This is a VERY LARGE campground, it will be a trek to get to the bathrooms or showers or swimming. You do NOT get to park at the lake if you are a camper," explains a parent who stayed at White Lake State Park with children.
Family-focused activities: Scheduled events keep children engaged throughout the day. At On the Saco Family Campground, a visitor noted, "Excellent campground run by a great couple. The grounds are beautiful and everyone is so friendly. My kids loved every second."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Bring extra leveling blocks for waterfront sites. At Chocorua KOA, an RVer reported, "The only level part of the site is away from the deck and water. My wife wanted to get the camper up close to the deck so our area under the awning was close to that, which meant I had a lot more leveling to do."
Hookup locations: Check utility placement before arrival. "Be sure to bring extensions for electrical and sewer as a lot of sites are set up with difficult connection spots," advises an RVer who stayed at Acres Of Wildlife Family Campground.
Limited big rig access: Some glamping locations near West Newfield have tight roads and limited turning radius. A Sandy Pines Campground visitor noted, "The only reason I give if 4 instead of five stars is that there are only a few transient sites that can handle a camper over 30ft."
