Brunswick offers a mix of RV parks and tent campgrounds within 30 miles of Midcoast Maine's coastal attractions. The region experiences warm summers with average temperatures around 75°F and cool evenings, while fall brings vibrant foliage and temperatures between 45-65°F. Coastal campgrounds often have tidal considerations that affect water access during certain hours.
What to do
Kayaking the Saco River Marsh: At Saco/Old Orchard Beach KOA, located about 40 miles southwest of Brunswick, water enthusiasts can explore tidal 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," notes Nancy W.
Visit Maine Botanical Gardens: Near Boothbay Craft Brewery & RV Resort, campers can explore impressive gardens just a short drive away. "Don't miss the Guardians of the Seeds (trolls) at the Botanical Gardens! Truly a one of a kind campground with amazing restaurant and brewery on site!" recommends Anna C.
Beach access with trolley service: Some campgrounds provide convenient transportation to beaches. At Wild Acres Sun RV Resort, "Great location trolley will pick you up from the campground and take you to Old Orchard Beach. Very friendly staff. Kid activities were done regularly," reports Jill P.
What campers like
Waterfront camping views: Thomas Point Beach and Campground offers direct ocean views just minutes from Brunswick. "We arrived at night and woke up to a beautiful view of the water. The sites are well kept and the bathroom was spotless!" writes Taylor C.
Adult-only camping options: For travelers without children, Wild Duck Adult Campground & RV Park provides a quieter experience. "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.
On-site dining: Several RV sites near Brunswick, Maine feature food service. "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 Nancy W. about a local KOA.
What you should know
Tidal considerations: Coastal campgrounds experience significant water level changes. At Shore Hills Campground & RV Park, "The tides are crazy in Maine so be careful if you use the boat launch that you don't get stuck on a mud flat when the 9-11' tide disappears," cautions Nancy W.
Insect preparation: Marshy areas near Brunswick require bug protection. "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. about Wild Duck Campground.
Train noise: Some oceanfront sites have railroad tracks between the campground and water. "The trains all blow there horn and you will hear it if your at one of the site 'by the ocean'. I would stay at the campground again but will be sure not to be so close to the 'ocean'," advises Bryan about Wild Acres.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-specific facilities: Select campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "There are a myriad of sites including rustic tent, cabins, and full hook-up RV sites that accommodate the largest of RV's... Amenities include a heated pool, hot tub (adults only), basketball, volleyball, playground, and various activities like s'mores, crafts, ice cream socials and more," explains Nancy W.
Consider seasonal timing: Family-oriented campgrounds change character throughout the season. "We stayed a weekday night and over the weekend and the weekend was crazy busy. A little too much," reports Daria about Shamrock Campground, which has "a heated pool for de kids to enjoy."
Reserve activities early: Popular campground features often require planning. "The adventure park was $25 but well worth it. The kids had a blast!" notes one camper, while another mentions, "Outdoor movies were fun" at Wild Acres Sun RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup extensions: At some Brunswick-area campsites, power connections require preparation. "The electric hook ups are like 1 box for every 10 camping spots so they r kinda far away so make sure u have an extension cord of some sort," advises Shannon M. about Thomas Point Beach.
Cell service and internet considerations: Connectivity varies widely between parks. "WiFi is not good. Even when they let us upgrade to the premium," reports April C., while Sarah A. notes, "Wifi not great and we have starlink - lots of obstruction so if you need uninterrupted access I'd check with the front desk to see if there are clearer areas for your satellite."
Dump station availability: Many campgrounds provide dump facilities but not all sites have sewer hookups. Shore Hills Campground offers full hookup sites with 30/50 amp service and sewer connections, though some campgrounds like Thomas Point Beach only offer electric and water with a central dump station.