Winthrop, Maine sits on the eastern shore of Cobboseecontee Lake at an elevation of 242 feet, with a humid continental climate featuring warm summers and cold winters. Seasonal camping options near Winthrop typically operate from mid-May through September, with most private campgrounds closed during winter months due to freezing temperatures and snow accumulation.
What to do
Water recreation opportunities: Augusta West Kampground provides direct lake access for fishing and kayaking. "Loved our site right on the water and access to the docks for fishing & kayaking! Kids caught many sunfish & had loads of fun," notes one visitor about Augusta West Kampground.
Hiking trails: Several nature preserves offer well-maintained trails within driving distance of Winthrop. "Nearby is the Ovens Mouth Preserve which has great hiking and nice water views and is just one of many nature preserves in the area which all are very nice, well-marked, well-maintained, and dog-friendly," according to a review of Shore Hills Campground.
Disc golf course: Recreation activities beyond swimming and hiking are available at certain campgrounds. "Very nice campground with a good camp store and disc golf course. We will stay again!" reports a camper who stayed at Jellystone Park Androscoggin Lake.
What campers like
Lakeside views: The region offers numerous waterfront camping options with views of lakes and ponds. "This a beautiful spot, right on the Lake, listened to the loons, watched Canadian Geese with their goslings and saw a bald eagle swoop down and try to get something," shares a visitor from Augusta West Kampground.
Beach access: Many campgrounds feature private beach areas for swimming. "There's a pond with a private beach within walking distance and great for kayaking and swimming," notes one camper about More to Life Campground in Winthrop.
Amenities for various budgets: RV parks near Winthrop offer different price points and amenity levels. "The pricing has increased from the dyrt's listed prices. We paid $40 for a tent site with elec. and water," reports a More to Life camper who visited in 2023.
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites than others. "The sites are pretty much on top of one another which is the only reason it's a 4 star for me. I prefer a little more secluded. If I go back, itll probably be on either end of the season with hopefully less people," notes a visitor to Martin Stream Campground.
Cell service considerations: Coverage can be spotty depending on location and carrier. "The wifi was a joke and we got frustrated and gave up. Not sure if it is any better in other areas of the park but it seems to be a common complaint that they tend not to fix," mentions a camper at Shore Hills Campground.
Dump station limitations: Not all campgrounds offer unlimited access to dump facilities. "There are no sewer hookups (which is fine) but you are only allowed ONE use at dump station upon leaving the campground," explains a recent Martin Stream visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Jellystone Park Androscoggin Lake offers numerous facilities for children. "Amazing campground. Has a lot of stuff for kids including playground, pool, water slides, canoeing, kayaking, mini golf and disc golf. Great sites and plenty of them," shares one visitor about Jellystone Park.
Organized events: Some campgrounds schedule regular activities for children and families. "This is a beautiful, family and pet friendly campground. Very well kept. The bathrooms and showers were always clean. Plenty of activities. There is a beautiful nature trail along the stream!" reports a Martin Stream camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The lakes provide opportunities for wildlife observation. "Loved waking up to the sounds of the loons & even spotted a bald eagle! We would deff return!" notes a visitor to Augusta West Kampground.
Tips from RVers
Electrical connection challenges: Some sites require additional equipment to access power. "The electrical hook ups are like 1 box for every 10 camping spots so they r kinda far away so make sure u have an extension cord of some sort," advises a camper at Thomas Point Beach and Campground.
Site selection for large rigs: RV parks near Winthrop offer varying degrees of access for larger vehicles. "We stayed in the 'new sites' adjacent to the entrance road; it was a long nice site with gravel but was not private," notes a visitor to Augusta West Kampground.
Water management preparation: Not all campgrounds provide full hookups. "There's no water or sewer hook ups so fill ur water tank before parking," recommends a Thomas Point Beach camper.