Mollidgewock State Park Campground – June 23, 2011
Laying alongside the Androscoggin River the Mollidgewock State Park Campground is a fishermen and paddlers paradise. The parks 44 campsites all enjoy immediate access to the Androscoggin River, and convenient spots to launch canoes and kayaks are scattered throughout the park. With picnic tables, running water, fireplaces, recycling areas, outhouses and incredible access to the Androscoggin River, the campsites at Mollidgewock State Park make the ideal headquarters for a river trip in the Great North Woods.
I made my home in Mollidgewock State Park at Campsite 42, tucked into the woods at the very edge of the park along a section of quick moving currents. A short trail from the access road led to a small plank bridge over the mud to a wooden tent platform perched just above the river. The sound of the rapids couldn’t have been any closer, and if it weren’t for the thick tree cover I could have literally cast a line from my tent.
After setting up camp I was anxious to get on the river that had been taunting me from so close by. Launching a kayak from my own campsite I picked my way up the rapids, and around the bend of the river that forms the park. Just upriver from the rapids the Androscoggin River flattens and widens out making a much calmer place to paddle, and keep an eye out for wildlife. Moose sightings are frequent along this section of the Androscoggin River, and paddling along the rivers edge gives the perfect chance to sneak up on one.
With the sun starting to set I paddled back to my campsite. A single loon kept me company, swimming close by my kayak and then letting out that distinct howl as I pulled up back on shore. Winding down after dinner at camp, the crackling fire, and dry tent platform were all I needed to fall fast asleep.
Waking up early to bird-calls, and the sounds of the rushing river, I quickly started to notice small wooden boats of fly fishermen stopping in the rapids near my campsite. I realized that I must have picked the right spot to camp, and try my own line when they all began plucking trout out of the river one after the other. After fixing breakfast I paddled out of camp, casting a few lines before the rain moved in, and sent me back scrambling to pack up camp.
On my way out I stopped at the communal gazebo over looking the river in the center of the campground. Attempting to dry off before hitting the road I listened to the other campers compare their fishing stories from the past few days. Despite the rain, it seemed that everyone else enjoyed their stay at Mollidgewock State Park just as much as I had.
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I’m learning SOOO much about N.H. State Parks! (and I lived there for over 50 yrs) Thanks Danny
this is about site 42 at molidgewok state park is there room for 2 tents.? If anyone has camped in this site let me know please
Bob Harlow-Deerfield NH
I have been enjoying the Mollidgewolk camp grounds for about 50 years now. I have probably camped in every site there is. They have added a few since I first visited. #42 is a great site used it a few times. not since the platform was built, Was there last weekend with a friend for 2 nights, brought the 4 wheeler and my friend was on it in the late morning and the new care taker told us could be used there and I tried to tell her we was being courteous to the few other campers and going slow just taking in the beautiful sites and she told us it couldn’t be used there and never been allowed there. well in my 50 years going there I have seen lots of 4 wheelers and even last year there was a few there. she kind of told me I didn’t know what I was talking about, I didn’t argue. kind of put a hurtin on my week end. she needs to get the rules straight herself before she tried to enforce rules that she makes up. I will go back just because she soured this trip doesn’t mean I wont go back. maybe I will get the rules of the park and frame them and give it to her.
love the Mollidgewold.
Bob