The coastal region around Bristol, Maine experiences seasonal average temperatures of 70°F in summer and 30°F in winter with annual precipitation of 46 inches. Morning fog frequently dissipates by late morning during summer months, particularly in July and August. Campsites near Bristol, Maine are predominantly open from mid-May through mid-October, with some extending their season through Columbus Day weekend.
What to do
Clamming at low tide: Sagadahoc Bay Campground offers direct access to clam flats during low tide. The tidal movements create a unique opportunity for visitors to harvest their own seafood. According to one visitor at Sagadahoc Bay Campground, "When the tide goes out you have the entire inlet to walk around in and explore. At night the stars were absolutely amazing!"
Kayaking on tidal waters: Duck Puddle Campground provides kayak rentals for exploring the protected waters of their lake. The campground sits on a freshwater lake that offers safer paddling conditions than open ocean waters. A recent camper noted, "We enjoyed our stay at Duck Puddle Campground. The staff were friendly and the place seemed well run. The site we had was on the water and had great views."
Visit local lighthouses: Pemaquid Point Lighthouse is accessible from several nearby campgrounds. The lighthouse stands on rocky coastal formations typical of the Maine coast. "Spent a night here as we took a road trip up the coast of Maine to Acadia National Park... Right down the road from the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse with a wonderful breakfast spot right next door," writes a camper who stayed at Pemaquid Point Campground.
What campers like
Oceanfront camping: Waterfront sites with tide views rank consistently high in camper reviews. At Shore Hills Campground & RV Park, one camper described their experience: "What a beautiful and well cared for campground! We got a space on the water (82) and the view is so beautiful. Picnic table is clean and sturdy, bathrooms very clean."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness receives frequent positive mentions across multiple campgrounds. Many facilities offer coin-operated showers which typically cost 25¢ for hot water. A Sherwood Forest Campsite visitor commented, "Clean bath house with plenty of hot water…metered but plenty of time. Adequately sized sites with a bit of privacy...everyone was friendly and kind."
Farm-based camping: Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Campground combines camping with access to a working organic farm. The 626-acre property includes four miles of coastline and agricultural operations. "A beautiful place with a farm, campground and state park all together! The working farm is open to visit and walk around. Pet the baby cows and see the pigs and goats," writes one camper.
What you should know
Site reservation timing: Many campgrounds fill completely for summer weekends by early April. Holiday weekends typically book 6-8 months in advance. One camper at Sherwood Forest Campsite noted, "Not many campers here in October. Plenty of room, great showers, even though they cost a whole quarter! Dark and quiet, just the way we like it."
Tidal access limitations: Water-based activities require attention to tide schedules which can limit boat launching and water access. The dramatic tide changes of 9-11 feet significantly alter shorelines throughout the day. A visitor at Boothbay Craft Brewery & RV Resort observed, "The upside is you can easily ride the bike lane into town for some exploring without having to deal with tourist parking. Especially in the summer time, parking is at a premium."
Road noise considerations: Campgrounds near main routes may experience traffic noise during peak tourist season. Sites deeper within campgrounds typically offer more quiet. "The sites are close together but we had a site at the end that had wonderful views of the river and we could angle our camper so we had privacy," reported a Shore Hills Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. Duck Puddle Campground features both playground equipment and open field space for active play. A camper shared, "Great beach for swimming, playground for playing. We have already booked our next trip in a few weeks!"
Farm animal experiences: Children particularly enjoy interacting with farm animals at select campgrounds. These educational opportunities provide hands-on learning about agriculture. According to a Wolfe's Neck visitor, "My kids enjoyed visiting with the farm animals and walking along the rocky shore each day. Plenty to do between biking, kayaking, farm experience and visiting downtown Freeport close by."
Seasonal activities: Chewonki Campground offers organized family activities during summer months. Events vary throughout the season and often include nature programs. One visitor wrote, "Spent a late September weekend with kids and pets at Chewonki, and had a great time. Such a friendly atmosphere, the golf green was a blast!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds have sloped sites requiring leveling blocks. The natural terrain of coastal Maine creates uneven camping areas. A visitor to Lake Pemaquid Campground noted, "This campground has a wonderful location and every amenity. It does however need lots of upgrades. By this I mean better roads, modernized bathrooms etc."
Laundry facilities: Limited laundry options exist at campgrounds in the Bristol area. Most offer coin-operated machines with variable availability. According to a visitor at Boothbay Craft Brewery & RV Resort, "Very clean. Two all-in-one units with shower, sink, and toilet. Although not marked, one had a urinal (made out of a beer keg!) In the same cabin was also laundry."
Generator restrictions: Many campgrounds limit generator use to specific hours or prohibit them entirely. These rules help maintain the natural quiet of wooded camping areas. A Sherwood Forest visitor observed, "The only drawback was the noise from generators but grateful they limited the hours here. Made for a bit of a noisy couple hours during peak times but otherwise a great place!"
