Sandy Pines Campground provides luxury glamping accommodations near Kennebunkport, Maine, just a short distance from Biddeford. This 4.7-rated property operates seasonally from May 11 to October 14, offering well-appointed safari tents, A-frame chalets, and custom wagons within a wooded setting adjacent to a salt marsh. The campground connects to local preserves through mountain biking trails, allowing guests to explore the natural surroundings while maintaining proximity to coastal attractions.
What to do
Kayak through Scarborough Marsh: At Wild Duck Adult Campground, campers can access nearby waterways for paddling adventures. "The campground is about a mile from the Eastern Trail through the Scarborough Marsh. This campground is small but well maintained," explains Kevin W. The marsh offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities from spring through fall.
Explore downtown Old Orchard Beach: Old Orchard Beach Campground provides convenient access to the town's attractions. "Old Orchard is known for their amusement park, arcade, pier, fun downtown, and expansive beach with seven miles of room to walk. Here you can stroll along the streets listening to the melodic sounds of an arcade, buy an airbrushed t-shirt and eat pier fries and fried dough," notes Nancy W.
Cycle the Eastern Trail: The multi-use trail system connects several campgrounds to natural areas. "There is a public biking/hiking trail just down the road and goes through the Scarborough Marsh," says a visitor to Bayley's Camping Resort. The flat, gravel surface makes it accessible for most fitness levels and bikes.
What campers like
Adult-only environments: Wild Duck Adult Campground caters specifically to campers seeking quieter settings. "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," shares Heather C. The 21+ policy creates a distinct atmosphere compared to family-oriented options.
Beach access: Proximity to shorelines ranks high among camper priorities. "We stayed here 3 nights. Wonderful showers and very accommodating staff. There is a fantastic Mexican restaurant we ate at twice, less than a mile away. The beach is close but not close enough to walk too," reports April C. from Old Orchard Beach Campground.
Clean facilities: Paradise Park Resort maintains high standards that campers appreciate. "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," mentions Alycia G.
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Most campgrounds in the Biddeford area have close quarters. "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 Tonisha T. about Paradise Park Resort.
Seasonal differences matter: Bayley's Camping Resort changes character throughout its operating season. "We have stayed at Bayley's a lot over the years and have watched it grow into an RV Resort. 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 Claire T.
Mosquitoes can be intense: The proximity to marshlands creates challenges. "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 Megan W. Pack adequate repellent, especially during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Choose off-peak times for quieter experiences: When glamping close to Biddeford, Maine with kids, timing matters. "We took a mid-September vacation and love how nice it is with fellow campers spread out. We are not resort campers, but this is very nice now that children are back in school," notes Celeste C. about Sandy Pines Campground.
Consider resort-style options for amenities: Family-oriented campgrounds offer extensive activities. "This park has so many amenities and things to do that it is a destination in itself and you and your kids will be busy the entire time. The camp store is fully stocked, there are fishing ponds, golf cart rentals, numerous pools and hot tubs, daily activities, weekly poolside entertainment, playgrounds, mini golf, café, game room, arcade, and more," shares Nancy W.
Look for shuttle services: Transportation options simplify beach trips with children. "We're typically state park campers, but decided to stay 2 nights at a resort campground to recharge and be close to the beach. We had a great experience! Awesome amenities, close to the beach (they offer a shuttle too) and great pool. The kids didn't want to leave!" reports Nathan S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters for privacy: When booking glamping close to Biddeford, Maine, consider your location preferences. "We stayed in the Beach Rose section and we have full hookups. We took a mid-September vacation and love how nice it is with fellow campers spread out," shares a visitor to Sandy Pines Campground.
Check hookup options carefully: Not all sites offer equal amenities. "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 Nancy W. about Old Orchard Beach Campground.
Seasonal campers create community: Long-term residents influence the campground culture. "We have been camping at Wild Acres for over 10 years. We were even seasonal for awhile. There is so much for everyone to do. We will however, never return on Labor Day weekend - way too noisy and quiet hours were not respected (like people partying until 4am), that is just over the top!" advises Lowiejean from Wild Acres RV Resort.
