Mountain Lake Camping at Its Finest
Rangeley Lake State Park sits on the south shore of Rangeley Lake, one of Maine’s most celebrated mountain lakes. The park’s 50 campsites occupy a wooded peninsula that juts into the lake, giving many sites water views or direct shore access. At an elevation of 1,520 feet, this is mountain country, the air is cooler, the nights are crisper, and the stars are brighter than at lower-elevation campgrounds closer to the coast.
Rangeley Lake is the centerpiece of the Rangeley Lakes region, a cluster of large lakes and ponds in the Western Mountains that has drawn anglers, paddlers, and outdoor enthusiasts since the 1800s. The lake covers about 6,000 acres and is surrounded by forested mountains rising to 3,000 feet and above. Saddleback Mountain, one of Maine’s 4,000-footers, dominates the skyline to the east. The town of Rangeley, a classic Maine mountain village with restaurants and outfitters, is about a 10-minute drive from the park.
The campground is smaller and more intimate than the big state park campgrounds like Sebago Lake or Mount Blue. With only 50 sites and a relatively remote location, it attracts campers who are willing to drive a bit further for a quieter, more scenic experience. The trade-off is worth it, Rangeley Lake at sunset, with the mountains going pink in the alpenglow, is one of the great visual experiences in Maine.
The Campground
The 50 sites are arranged along a network of loops on the wooded peninsula. Sites vary from small tent pads deep in the spruce forest to larger, more open sites near the water. There are no hookups, but the campground has flush toilets, hot showers, and a dump station. Every site has a picnic table and fire ring.
The lakefront and near-lakefront sites are the most desirable and book up first. These give you the sound of water lapping on shore and quick access to the beach and boat launch. Interior sites are more shaded and cooler, an advantage during the occasional hot spell, though Rangeley’s elevation keeps temperatures moderate even in summer.
A sandy swimming beach is the campground’s social hub. The beach faces north across the open lake, and on clear days you can see the mountains beyond the far shore. The water is cold, Rangeley Lake is deep and at elevation, but most campers are swimming by mid-July. A boat launch near the beach provides access for canoes, kayaks, and motorboats.
Sites on the outer edge of the peninsula (roughly sites 35-50) have the best water access and views. These book up fast when reservations open in February. If lakefront sites are taken, sites 15-25 are well-shaded and only a two-minute walk to the beach.
Things to Do
Fishing is the marquee activity on Rangeley Lake. The lake is famous for its wild brook trout and landlocked salmon fishery, which has drawn anglers from across the country since the 19th century. The Rangeley region was the birthplace of American fly fishing culture, and the tradition continues. Trolling and fly fishing from a boat are the most productive methods. A Maine fishing license is required, and special regulations apply to some waters in the region.
Bald Mountain, just a short drive from the park, offers a moderate 2-mile round trip hike to a fire tower with panoramic views of the Rangeley Lakes chain. It is one of the best short hikes in western Maine and is suitable for families. For more ambitious hikers, Saddleback Mountain (4,120 feet) and the Appalachian Trail are within 30 minutes of the park.
Paddling Rangeley Lake is a full-day activity. The lake has numerous coves, islands, and undeveloped shoreline to explore. Moose frequent the marshy areas at the lake’s inlets, and loons are abundant. For a multi-day paddling trip, the Rangeley Lakes chain connects several large lakes and ponds through portages and connecting waterways.
Rangeley Lake is deep and at high elevation. Water temperatures remain cold even in summer, typically peaking in the mid-60s. Swimming is refreshing but can be dangerous for extended exposure. Hypothermia is a risk for paddlers who capsize. Wear a PFD on the water always.
When to Go
Spring
Ice-out is typically mid-May. Fishing is excellent right after ice-out but the air and water are cold. Campground opens mid-May.
Summer
July and August offer the warmest weather and best swimming conditions. Still cool at night, bring warm layers.
Fall
September foliage in the Western Mountains is stunning. The lake reflects the colors. Campground closes end of September.
Winter
Campground closed October through mid-May. The town of Rangeley stays open year-round with snowmobile and ski access.
Getting There
From Portland, take Route 4 north through Farmington and Phillips to Rangeley. The park entrance is on the south shore of Rangeley Lake, about 3 miles south of the town on South Shore Drive. The total drive is approximately three hours, with the last 45 minutes on scenic mountain roads.
From Bangor, take Route 2 west to Farmington, then Route 4 north to Rangeley. The drive is about three and a half hours. The park is well-signed from the town of Rangeley.
The town of Rangeley has several excellent restaurants and a vibrant small-town atmosphere. The Gingerbread House for breakfast and the Loon Lodge for dinner are local favorites. Stock up on groceries at the IGA in town before heading to camp. The Rangeley Outdoor Sporting Heritage Museum is worth a visit for its history of the region’s fishing tradition.
Rangeley Lake Camping Packing List
- Tent with warm-weather sleeping bags (nights drop to 40s)
- Warm layers, fleece and long pants for evenings
- Camp stove and cookware
- Fishing rod, flies, and Maine license
- Canoe or kayak with PFD
- Rain jacket (mountain weather changes fast)
- Binoculars for moose and loon watching
- Swimsuit (the lake is cold but worth it)
- Firewood (available at park or in town)
- Bug spray for evening mosquitoes
FAQ
How cold does Rangeley Lake get at night?
Even in July and August, overnight temperatures at Rangeley's 1,520-foot elevation regularly drop into the 40s. Bring a sleeping bag rated to at least 40 degrees and warm layers for evenings around the fire.
Is the fishing really that good?
Yes. Rangeley Lake has been a premier brook trout and landlocked salmon fishery for over 150 years. The lake is managed for wild fish and the fishing is consistently excellent, particularly in spring and fall.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are allowed in the campground on a leash. They are not permitted on the swimming beach during the summer season.
Can I bring a motorboat?
Yes. The park has a boat launch on Rangeley Lake. All Maine boating regulations apply. Motors are allowed on the lake.
How do I make a reservation?
Through the Maine state park reservation system (campwithme.com), which opens February 1 for the full season. Rangeley is popular but less competitive than Sebago or Acadia-area campgrounds.
