Bar Mills camping options extend beyond coastal properties, with several family-friendly sites situated within wooded inland settings that feature tall pine canopies characteristic of the region. The camping season typically runs from mid-April through mid-October, with most facilities operating at reduced capacity during shoulder months. Seasonal temperature variations can be significant, with daytime highs reaching the upper 80s in July and August while dropping to the 40s during early spring and late fall evenings.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: The Saco River Marsh provides excellent kayaking and canoeing options for campers staying near Bar Mills. Some campgrounds offer rentals or launch points directly on property. "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 from Wild Duck Adult Campground.
Hiking and biking trails: The Eastern Trail, a multi-use gravel path, connects several camping areas around Bar Mills. "It is within a mile of the Audubon center office, where you can either put in your own kayak/canoe or rent one," notes a reviewer about the trail accessibility from Wild Duck Adult Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds maintain stocked fishing ponds for guests. "There is a pond for fishing, there are kayaks etc... Shower throughout and I might add very clean. Come check it out. Lots to do," writes a camper who stayed at Bayley's Camping Resort.
What campers like
Adult-only options: For campers seeking quieter surroundings, adult-focused campgrounds provide alternatives to family-oriented resorts. "This adult only campground is peaceful and quiet, with the sounds of birds and the trees being the main thing you hear - it is quite relaxing," describes a visitor at Wild Duck Adult Campground.
Transportation convenience: Many campgrounds offer shuttle services to beaches and attractions. "The trolly will pick you up from the campground and take you to Old Orchard Beach. Very friendly staff. Kid activities were done regularly," notes a reviewer from Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach.
Pond recreation: Multiple campgrounds feature fishing ponds that provide alternatives to ocean swimming. "This campground is very cute, oriented to families and couples. There are multiple pools and playgrounds. One pool has a hot tub for kids. There's also paddleboats available to rent," explains a camper who stayed at Paradise Park Resort.
What you should know
Mosquito conditions: The proximity to marshlands means insect protection is essential during summer months. "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 one camper about their experience near the marshes.
Internet connectivity: Digital connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "The Wi-Fi does not work very well (WFH employees trying to see the world). Other than the Wi-Fi, everything exceeded our expectations," notes a recent camper at Old Orchard Beach Campground.
Site privacy considerations: The level of privacy between campsites varies considerably between properties and specific site locations. "Depending on your site location you may get more privacy than if you stay in the big rig sites. The wooded sites tend to be more private and less loud. Staying by any of the pools will be louder," advises a regular visitor to Bayley's Camping Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Tent site selection: For tent campers with children, seek wooded sites away from high-traffic areas. "We tent camp but they also offer small cabins which looked adorable and glamping tents. Easy access to local trails and tourist spots," shares a visitor to Sandy Pines Campground.
Shoulder season visits: Family campers seeking less crowded conditions should consider early June or September stays. "We were in a tent and enjoyed it but there are also many mobile homes and RVs. The walk to Old Orchard Beach was about a 10 minute walk from our site and the town and shops nearby are cute and classic. We were there the first week of June and could walk up and get a site that day but they said that late June you need to schedule your stay in advanced," explains a camper from Paradise Park Resort.
Activity planning: Many campgrounds provide structured daily activities for children during peak season. "This is a family friendly campground that is a short shuttle ride (offered by the staff) or drive to the amusements and boardwalk at Old Orchard Beach. The pond is great for fishing but not swimming. There is a pool and small playground. The streets are flat for the kids to bike. They offer fun dances with kid games at night," shares a parent who stayed at Paradise Park Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site surface considerations: Many campgrounds feature gravel sites which can be uneven after rain. "Our gravel site was perfectly level with no potholes and the roads leading to our site were easy to navigate in our 45' motorhome. The patio was gravel and there was some grass between campsites," notes an RVer who stayed at Old Orchard Beach Campground.
Hookup availability: Full service sites with 50-amp connections are widely available but book quickly during peak season. "Site privacy varies considerably, with several reviewers noting that sites can be quite close together, particularly at the more developed resorts," according to experienced RVers who visit the area regularly.
Seasonal rates: RV campers can find significant discounts during shoulder seasons. "Nightly rates in peak season are outrageous but you can find much cheaper rates if you stay in the shoulder season or go with 30 amp electric and no sewer," advises a regular visitor to Bayley's Camping Resort.
