Fall camping fun in Maine

Fall Camping Fun: Things to Do in Maine This Season

September 10, 2025
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Fall in Maine is a magical time to experience the great outdoors. With the crisp air, vibrant foliage, and cozy camping atmosphere, it’s the perfect season for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a first-time camper or a seasoned veteran, Maine offers a wealth of activities that make fall camping unforgettable. From seasonal festivals to scenic hikes, here’s a look at some of the best things to do in Maine this fall.

1. Enjoy Scenic Hikes and Fall Foliage

Maine is renowned for its breathtaking fall foliage, and there’s no better way to experience it than by hitting the trails. Whether you’re staying at Papoose Pond or exploring nearby parks, there are countless hiking opportunities that offer sweeping views of vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves. Some of the top trails to explore include:

  • Pulpit Rock Preserve (Waterford, ME)
  • Grafton Notch State Park (Newry, ME)
  • Mount Katahdin (Baxter State Park)

These hikes offer something for everyone, from easy walks to challenging mountain climbs. Be sure to pack your camera—the autumn views are absolutely stunning!

2. Attend the Fryeburg Fair

If you’re camping in late September, don’t miss the Fryeburg Fair. Taking place from September 27 through October 5, 2025, this festival is a celebration of “Maine’s Blue Ribbon Classic”. Come to the fair and see competitions, horse pulls, all types of farm animals, Firemen’s Muster, Grand Parade, rides, food, entertainment and more. 

The festival is a perfect addition to your fall camping trip, with tons of fun things to do for everyone in the family. Plus, you’ll be just a short drive from Papoose Pond!

More Info: Fryeburg Fair

3. Waterford Fall Foliage 5K Road Race & Fun Run

For those who enjoy staying active during their camping trips, the Waterford Fall Foliage 5K Road Race & Fun Run is a perfect way to get some exercise while taking in the beautiful fall scenery. This annual event takes place on October 12, 2025, at 11:30 AM, and features a 5K road race, fitness walk, and 1-mile fun run. Proceeds from the event benefit the Tony Waldeier Scholarship Fund, supporting local students.

If you’re up for the challenge, it’s a great way to kick off your day before heading back to the campground to relax by the fire. The event is family-friendly, so you can bring the kids along for the fun run or walk the course at your own pace. And, it’s our last week of being open at Papoose Pond so help us close down with a bang! 

More Info: Waterford Fall 5K

4. Pumpkin Picking & Seasonal Treats

No fall season would be complete without a visit to a pumpkin patch or apple picking! Several local farms within an hour of Waterford offer pumpkin picking, apple cider tastings, and homemade seasonal treats. Here are a few farms to consider visiting during your fall camping trip:

  • Maine’s Harvest Hills Farm (Harrison, ME)
  • Pineland Farms (New Gloucester, ME)
  • Ricker Hill Orchards (Turner, ME)
  • Wallingford’s Orchard (Auburn, ME)

After picking out your perfect pumpkin or bag of apples, head back to your campsite and enjoy a cozy evening making pumpkin pie or roasting pumpkin seeds by the campfire. Don’t forget to try hot apple cider or s’mores for the ultimate fall camping experience!

5. Cozy Campfires & Starry Nights

One of the most enjoyable aspects of fall camping is the opportunity to cozy up by the fire. After a day of outdoor adventures, there’s nothing like a warm campfire to gather around with friends and family. Share stories, toast marshmallows, and enjoy the crackling of the fire under the crisp night sky. 

The cooler fall temperatures make for ideal stargazing conditions. Bring a blanket, lie back, and marvel at the clear, crisp night skies. Whether you’re an experienced astronomer or just someone who enjoys the beauty of the cosmos, fall offers some of the best stargazing in Maine. Just make sure to book quickly, as our last weekend is October 13, 2025! 

6. Local Fall Festivals 

In addition to the Rangeley Fall Festival, Maine is home to numerous other fall festivals and fairs that celebrate local culture and the harvest season. Here are a few to consider:

  • Oxford County Fair (Oxford, ME): Tons of fun to be had at this fair, taking place September 10-13, see headliner’s Kylie Morgan and Lily Rose perform, enter the apple pie contest, or check out the new Cirque Cyber entertainment! 
  • Common Ground Fair (Unity, ME): From September 19-21, 2025, enjoy the Common Ground County Fair hosted by the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association including 1,000-plus exhibitors and speakers!
  • Sunday River Fall Festival (South Ridge, ME): Come enjoy this quirky event that advertises as an opportunity to see peak foliage, plus original events like Wife Carrying, cornhole, a craft fair, and more. Held October 11-12, 2025, you get to help close out the season at Papoose Pond with fun for everyone. 

These festivals are a great way to support local businesses and find unique handmade items that make perfect souvenirs for your trip. All of these festivals are close enough to the Pond to make us your home base while you enjoy all that Maine has to offer and help us close our season out with a bang. 

Conclusion

Maine is the ultimate destination for fall camping fun. With so many outdoor activities, local festivals, and seasonal events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during your visit to Papoose Pond. Whether you’re hiking through the fall foliage, attending a local festival, or just relaxing by the campfire, Maine offers the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable fall camping experience.

Don’t wait—book your fall camping getaway at Papoose Pond today and make the most of the beautiful season through October 13, 2025.