Rain or Shine: Rainy Day Activities for Campers Near Cold River Campground

Rain on a camping trip doesn’t have to mean “stuck under the tent.” In fact, rainy days often become some of the most memorable parts of a trip — full of adventure, discovery, and unexpected fun.

Here are great ideas to keep your campground stay exciting even when the skies are gray, including local Bangor, Maine indoor fun and cozy outdoor options.


☔ Run Errands and Have Fun in Bangor

Just a short drive from Cold River Campground, Bangor has plenty of activities that make rainy days feel like small adventures.

Indoor Museums & Learning Spots

  • Maine Discovery Museum – A multi-floor hands-on children’s museum with science, art, and engineering exhibits that delight both kids and adults.
  • Cole Land Transportation Museum – Explore historic vehicles and transportation displays — a fun way to learn and stretch your legs indoors.
  • Zillman Art Museum – Local art exhibitions offer a calm cultural experience on a cozy rainy day.
  • Maine Air Museum – Aviation history and interactive exhibits for curious minds.
  • Bangor Historical Society – Dive into local history and tales from the region (hours vary).
  • Hudson Museum – Explore anthropology and world cultures inside the University of Maine campus.

Interactive Entertainment & Activities

  • Bangor Escape Rooms – Test your puzzle skills with family or friends in themed escape challenges.
  • Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park – Burn off rainy-day energy with trampolines, climbing zones, and indoor fun.
  • G-Force Entertainment – Laser tag, axe throw, and arcade games keep all ages entertained.
  • The Sports Arena – Bowling, arcade games, and family fun indoors.
  • Family Fun Bowling Center – Classic bowling lanes and good times for a laid-back rainy afternoon.
  • Messology Maine – Indoor sensory and creative play (great for toddlers/kids).

☕ Cozy Campground Ideas That Don’t Require Sunshine

Even if you don’t want to drive into town, rainy weather is a perfect excuse for charming indoor campground moments:

🔥 Campfire Tales (Under a Canopy)

Rain or mist, a covered campfire area (or a well-placed tarp) turns into story time central. Swap fun memories, share past trip photos, or invent new campsite legends.

🎲 Games and Card Tournaments

Bring a favorite deck of cards, travel board games, or try a campground group game night — low prep, high laughs.

🍳 Rainy-Day Cooking Adventures

Try a new camp recipe you’ve been curious about. Rainy days are perfect for:

  • Dutch oven breads or desserts
  • Gourmet s’mores stations
  • Camp chili or stew simmering over coals

📸 Photo Share & Travel Stories

Pull out your travel pictures and share them with neighboring campers. People love showing off favorite spots, funny outtakes, and scenic shots from past trips. It’s like camping bingo for the soul.

📚 Library-Style Lounging (Yes, We’ve Got One!)

Rainy days are perfect for slowing down — and our fully stocked campground library makes it easy. Inside, you’ll find:

  • A variety of books for all ages
  • Board games and card games
  • Puzzles to pass the time
  • A collection of videos for relaxed, rainy afternoons

It’s a cozy spot to unplug, challenge your brain, or simply enjoy something low-key while the rain does its thing outside. Many campers wander in planning to stay for a few minutes… and end up lingering much longer than expected.

Sometimes the best rainy-day activity is just settling in and letting the day slow down with you.


☔ A Little Rain Never Hurt Anyone

Some campers treat rainy days like a detour — but in truth, they can become highlights of the trip. Whether you explore downtown Bangor or make cozy memories back at your campsite, rainy weather adds a layer of adventure, relaxation, and laughter.

And when the sun comes back out? You’ll be ready — refreshed, inspired, and maybe a little wiser about your next rainy-day activity. 🌦️