2 min read

As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, you may be starting to make reservations for a camping trip into the many state parks and public lands that dot the Rangeley region.

For those with a car full of kids, it may be difficult to truck out to a remote reserve without a bathroom or shower available. Here is a list of parks and reserves where you can camp with some of the comforts of home nearby.

Please note that campsite reservations fill up fast, so it’s best to plan your trip far in advance.

RANGELEY LAKE STATE PARK

This state park offers ample fishing, hiking, swimming and boating with sweeping views of Rangeley Lake. There are showers, toilets and a playground on-site. The park offers campsites with water and electric hookups for an extra fee.

Just 15 minutes outside Rangeley, you’ll have all the nature you need, with the option to swing into town for any errands you may need to run. 

The park opens for the season May 1, with reservations opening on May 18. Reservations range from $20–$40, depending on state residency and campsite choices. Camping reservations should be made by calling the State Park Reservations Office or visiting the online reservation site.

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CATHEDRAL PINES CAMPGROUND

This campground in Eustis is only five minutes from Stratton and 20 minutes from the Bigelow Preserve. Cathedral Pines offers beach access on Flagstaff Lake with the local grocery store just down the road in case you forget to pack something.

The campground has showers, a bathroom, water and electrical hookups at select sites. There is also a public picnic area and a volleyball net.

Reserve a spot by emailing the office your first and second preferred sites. Reservations run between $44 and $52, depending on whether your site has hookups or is lakeside.

CUPSUPTIC LAKE PARK AND CAMPGROUND

The beautiful Cupsuptic Lake in Oquossoc offers waterfront campground sites on the mainland and on Birch Island, with a shuttle service offered to and from the island, perfect for those looking to fish or relax at the water’s edge. There are also 26 RV sites with utility hookups available.

This campground offers a supply shop, a bathhouse and a welcome center, and is part of the Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust. There’s a sandy beach and boat, kayak, canoe and paddleboard rentals.

The park opens in mid-May. Cupsuptic Lake Park and Campground accepts reservations only after an inquiry has been submitted from their website. You can also call or email.

Quentin Blais, an Illinois native, is the community reporter for the Rangeley Highlander. He covers Rangeley and the surrounding towns in northern Franklin County. Quentin studied photography and journalism...

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