Hastings Campground

- South Oxford, ME 04217

Hastings Campground is a well-regarded destination for those seeking an authentic and tranquil camping experience deep within the natural beauty of Western Maine. Situated in the Maine portion of the vast White Mountain National Forest, this campground offers a unique blend of rustic isolation and essential, well-maintained amenities. For Maine residents looking to disconnect from the hustle of daily life and reconnect with the outdoors, Hastings provides a quiet, forested haven. Its reputation for cleanliness and its friendly on-site hosts have made it a favorite among both tent and RV campers who appreciate a simpler, nature-focused getaway. This spot is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a portal to the famed trails, pristine waters, and breathtaking scenery that define the Maine mountains.

The campground is established on the historic site of the old logging town of Hastings from the late 1800s, giving it a unique sense of place that blends history with nature. It’s surrounded by a young, mixed hardwood forest with ample open areas, creating a scenic and peaceful atmosphere. Whether you are an experienced hiker, a family looking for a safe, natural environment for your children, or simply someone who craves the quietude of a campfire under the stars, Hastings Campground offers an idyllic setting for all your outdoor adventures.

Located officially in South Oxford, ME 04217, USA, Hastings Campground is uniquely positioned on Route 113, often referred to as Evans Notch Road, near the shore of Evans Brook. While the official address places it in South Oxford County, its remote location situates it deep within the Androscoggin Ranger District of the White Mountain National Forest, close to the towns of Gilead, Maine, and Gorham, New Hampshire. This placement makes it an incredibly convenient basecamp for Mainers looking to explore some of the most dramatic and least-traveled sections of the White Mountains without having to travel far into New Hampshire.

Accessibility is generally straightforward via major state routes leading to Route 113. The campground is nestled off the main highway, and while it feels remote, the road leading into the area is typically well-maintained, allowing for easy access for both passenger vehicles and RVs. Visitors should note that the secluded nature of the campground, while a major draw, means that nearby amenities like large grocery stores or gas stations require a short drive—the town of Bethel, for instance, is approximately 10 miles away and serves as a good spot for last-minute supplies. This blend of accessibility and seclusion is a major benefit for local users, providing a true escape that is still within a reasonable driving distance from many southern and central Maine communities.

Hastings Campground focuses on providing essential, well-maintained services to ensure a comfortable yet rustic camping experience. The emphasis here is on basic needs and natural immersion rather than full-service, developed resort amenities.

• Campsites for Tents and RVs: Individual sites are available and are known to be spacious, wide, and flat, suitable for both tent setup and accommodating RVs and trailers up to approximately 30-35 feet.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each individual campsite is outfitted with a picnic table and a fire ring, complete with a grate for cooking over an open fire, a staple of any true camping experience.
• Drinking Water: Clean, potable water is available via a hand pump (water spigot) located within the facility, offering a classic, rustic way to collect water.
• Vault Toilets: The campground features pit or vault toilets that are frequently noted in reviews for being remarkably clean and well-kept by the on-site hosts.
• On-site Host/Attendant: A friendly and attentive host is typically on site to manage the grounds, offer local tips, and assist campers.
• Firewood for Sale: Firewood is often available for purchase from the camp host, a convenient service for those who arrive without their own supply.
• Trash Collection: Designated trash collection facilities are provided to help campers maintain the pristine environment.

It is important to note that Hastings is a "no-frills" experience in terms of modern hookups; there are typically no electrical, sewer, or water hookups at the individual sites, and cell service is generally non-existent in the area, contributing significantly to its peaceful, off-the-grid ambiance.

Hastings Campground is distinguished by its unique natural and environmental features that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.

• Proximity to Evans Notch: The campground is located near the northern end of Evans Notch, a stunning pass in the White Mountains that provides access to some of the area's most beautiful and less crowded trails and scenic views.
• Access to Hiking Trails: It serves as a fantastic launching point for numerous hiking opportunities, including the popular Roost Trail and trails leading up Royce Mountains and Mt. Hastings, catering to various skill levels.
• Wild River and Evans Brook Access: The campground is situated near Evans Brook and offers easy walking access to the Wild River, providing opportunities for fly fishing, wading, and finding small, sweet sandy spots for swimming.
• Pristine and Peaceful Environment: Consistently praised in reviews for its quiet, peaceful nature, well-spaced sites, and immaculate grounds, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and wildlife viewing (including moose, deer, and various birds).
• Shaded, Private Campsites: The individual sites are shaded and well-separated, often with small wooded sections in between, enhancing privacy for campers.
• Large Open Play Area: A large, open grassy area is available within the facility, which is a great space for children to play or for group activities like frisbee.
• Historic Location: The site's history as an old logging camp and the former town of Hastings adds a layer of intrigue and connection to the region's past.

For booking and general inquiries, Hastings Campground is managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the White Mountain National Forest. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during the peak summer and fall foliage seasons, and can typically be made up to six months in advance.

Address: South Oxford, ME 04217, USA

Phone: For general information regarding the White Mountain National Forest campgrounds and to make reservations, it is best to contact the Androscoggin Ranger District directly or use the federal reservation website. General contact numbers are typically available on the U.S. Forest Service website for the White Mountain National Forest.

Hastings Campground is a true gem and an ideal destination for residents of Maine. As locals, we understand and cherish the unique, rugged, and pristine quality of the Maine outdoors, and Hastings embodies this spirit perfectly. It’s an easy-to-reach but remote escape that offers a genuine disconnect from the everyday digital world, allowing you to embrace the state's natural heritage.

For Maine families, it provides a safe, clean, and educational environment for children to learn about nature, explore the woods, and enjoy old-fashioned camping. For the serious outdoor adventurer, its strategic location on Route 113 provides unparalleled access to some of the best hiking, mountain biking, and fishing opportunities not just in Maine, but in the entire Northeast. Unlike larger, more commercial parks, Hastings retains a quiet, community feel, supported by dedicated hosts and a commitment to maintaining a pristine environment.

Choosing Hastings Campground means supporting the preservation of a beautiful, historic corner of our state and gaining a peaceful retreat right in our own backyard. It is the perfect place to create lasting Maine memories, from the sound of the owls at night to the smell of pine and campfire smoke in the cool mountain air. Plan your trip and discover why this "hidden gem" remains a closely-guarded favorite among those who truly know Maine camping.

Hastings Campground

South Oxford, ME 04217, USA