RV sites near Arundel, Maine offer varying levels of accessibility to coastal attractions and Maine's forested interior. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from May through October, closing during winter months when temperatures regularly drop below freezing. Elevation changes are minimal throughout the area, with most camping facilities situated at less than 100 feet above sea level on relatively flat terrain.
What to do
Beach access: Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach provides convenient transportation options to nearby beaches. "The trolley access to the beach area was great and people are friendly," notes a visitor at Wild Acres Sun RV Resort. Another camper mentioned, "This campground is four miles from Old Orchard Beach which is a trip. It is a throw-back from your childhood when carnival rides and funnel cakes made you so happy."
Wildlife viewing: The Scarborough Marsh area offers excellent bird watching opportunities. "My wife and I enjoy riding our bikes on rail trails. This quiet campground is about a mile from the Eastern Trail through the Scarborough Marsh," writes a camper about Wild Duck Adult Campground. Another reviewer suggests, "A great place to explore is Rachael Carson National Wildlife Refuge. There is a small welcome center and trails that wind through the marsh with some beautiful views (and dog-friendly)."
Water recreation: Kayaking and canoeing are popular in the region's waterways. "If you like to paddle, head to the Saco River Marsh. Here you can put in your own boats or rent some and paddle through beautiful marsh – just watch the tides," advises a camper. Some campgrounds offer on-site water activities: "There was a nice pool for the kiddos, as well as kayaks and water toys for the pond, which looks like a lake."
What campers like
Private campsites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded spots away from crowds. "My sister and I lucked out with our cabin and the cul-de-sac it was in. It overlooked the woods and was a bit more secluded than many of the other sites," writes a visitor to Saco Old Orchard Beach KOA. They continue, "K3, K2 and K1 are great options as well, located along the wooded edges of the grounds. Tent sites 96, P5, P4, P3, P2 and P1 were also among the best spots, offering full shade and privacy."
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained bathroom facilities. "The bathrooms were very clean. We were even seasonal for awhile. There is so much for everyone to do," says a regular visitor to Wild Acres. Another camper reports, "The bathrooms and showers were really clean and you constantly saw yellow-shirted people busily working."
Entertainment options: On-site activities provide added value for many guests. "The park has great amenities, and well run but just be prepared for large groups, loud music and managed chaos," notes one camper about Wild Acres Sun RV Resort. Tuxbury Pond RV Campground offers "a band setting up for their afternoon show. The live band was cool" followed by evening entertainment where "all 3 comedians were clearly aware that there was a child in the audience."
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds have railroad tracks nearby. "The train honking behind of our RV and a big construction besides of our windows with huge trucks coming and going all day long since 7:00 AM," writes one visitor about Wild Acres Sun RV Resort. Another camper advises, "The campground map is missing the train tracks that are between the campground and the ocean. The trains all blow there horn and you will hear it if your at one of the site 'by the ocean'."
Bugs: Proximity to marshland means insect preparation is essential. "The only negative of this place was the mosquitoes. They were TERRIBLE. In the time it took after we parked the camper, to when I could dig the bug spray out of our truck I was covered in bites," warns a visitor to Wild Duck Adult Campground.
Seasonal factors: Camping experiences vary greatly depending on when you visit. "We went in October, the foliage is beautiful on the 'wooded' sites. There are new sites with gravel and no trees as well, we had our choice," notes a camper at Thousand Trails Moody Beach. Another explains that "Sun night was way quieter than Fri and Sat night" at Wild Acres Sun RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Look for campgrounds with multiple recreation facilities. "We had a blast and plan on visiting again next year! This place is well payed out and very well taken care of. The pool is heated and has an amazing water slide and themed," shares a visitor to Cole's Mine RV Resort. Another camper adds, "Super fun pool and a small campground so not many people crowding the pool. Many nice fishing spots and lots of play areas and outdoor recreation."
Weekend considerations: Family experiences differ between weekdays and weekends. "We stayed a weekday night and over the weekend and the weekend was crazy busy. A little too much," reports one camper. Another notes, "Quiet hours were not regulated and although we did appreciate being able to sit at the fire past 11, the drunk people walking and driving golf carts around was a bit much."
Camp store conveniences: On-site stores can save trips to town. "One of the nice features was the on-site restaurant which claims to be famous for their 'blueberry pancakes' and also offers Belgian waffles, pizza, hamburgers, and hot dogs. I admit the pancakes were delicious and loved eating them campfire side," writes a camper about Sun Outdoors Saco.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose your RV site strategically for comfort. "Sea-Vu West Premier RV Resort offers "wide/grassy sites and quietness" according to one camper who adds, "If you want shade, not much but you have plenty of space to just sit on your other side of your RV and use that for shade."
Road conditions: Paved roads are available at some campgrounds. "Roads are paved so kids can ride their bikes with ease. Place is very clean and close to the beech. Staff is very friendly and accommodating," notes a visitor about Sea-Vu West.
Seasonal benefits: Consider extending your stay for the best experience. "If we make it back to Wells, we will choose this Resort again....that says a lot with all the options in the area," writes one RV camper. Another advises, "This is a great base for sightseeing" regarding campgrounds in the region.