Located in southwestern Maine, Casco sits on the northern shore of Sebago Lake, the state's deepest and second-largest lake at 316 feet deep. The region averages 90°F in summer months with cooler 55-60°F nights. Several glamping properties near Casco remain open into mid-October when fall foliage reaches peak color, though water activities typically end by late September as water temperatures drop below 65°F.
What to do
River tubing trips on the Saco River: Visitors at On the Saco Family Campground can arrange shuttle service for kayak or tube trips. "We took a shuttle up with some kayaks, reasonably priced, and drifted back down 10 miles right to our site," reports camper Kristy B., who appreciated the convenience of ending at her campsite.
Astronomy programs and night sky viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer organized astronomy events during summer months. "They had a nice astronomy program by the local telescope club while we visited and the rangers spoke of other programs," mentions Harry H., who enjoyed stargazing opportunities during his visit to Point Sebago.
Hiking at Pleasant Mountain: Located near the camping areas, Pleasant Mountain offers hiking trails with panoramic views. Christopher K. from On the Saco Family Campground notes, "Camping for the night before the hike to the summit of Pleasant Mountain! The river was perfect, sandy bottom, refreshing current."
What campers like
Private wooded sites for tent camping: Papoose Pond Family Campground receives high marks for spacious wooded tent sites. Kaileigh K. shares, "The campsite was large and private with good distance between the next sites. We were on the pool/rec hall side and it definitely seemed less condensed over there than the pond side."
Clean facilities and bathhouses: Maintaining sanitary conditions is a priority at campgrounds throughout the region. At Loon's Haven Family Campground, Angela M. observed, "This campground has the cleanest bathrooms I have ever seen while camping. The pond is crystal clear and we boated over to one of the small islands."
Sandy beaches and swimming areas: Most waterfront properties maintain dedicated swimming zones. Peter F. from Loon's Haven mentions, "Great views of this quiet pond. Quiet campground with great campsite amenities." Many properties rake their swimming areas daily to maintain sandy bottoms.
What you should know
Seasonal site access limitations: Several campgrounds close their reservation systems during certain months. At Poland Spring Campground, operations run "from mid-May to Columbus Day," requiring advance planning for peak summer dates.
Campsite privacy varies significantly: Jean C. reports about Poland Spring Campground, "We tent camped in a loop where the sites were wooded and close together, but others are well suited to larger rigs and offer full hookups. If you're tenting and don't need electric, sites 101-106 offer slightly more seclusion and are close to the water."
Gate closures and check-in times: Most properties implement security measures with specified arrival windows. Jean C. further notes, "The gate is secured; plan to arrive by 9pm for check-in." Travelers should confirm their campground's specific check-in process and gate closure times.
Tips for camping with families
Organized children's activities: Acres of Wildlife Family Campground schedules regular programming for younger guests. "Amazing family activities to keep kids occupied," says Sarah L., who has been returning with her family for multiple years. "It's the only camp ground my kids request!"
Multiple playgrounds for different age groups: Several family-oriented facilities feature multiple play areas. Darci F. notes that Acres of Wildlife has "activities and 2/3 playgrounds. This camp ground is FULL of fun for kids."
Water recreation equipment rentals: Campgrounds along lakes and ponds typically offer watercraft. "The waterfront offers a beach and a place to put in your boat (paddle or <10hp)," explains Jean C. about Poland Spring, highlighting the accessibility of water activities without needing to transport your own equipment.
Tips from RVers
Site layout and hookup locations: At Sebago Lake State Park Campground, Jennifer F. notes, "This is a large campground right on the lake. Half of area is set up with RV hookups, so it nicely separates the tents from the RVs." This separation provides a quieter experience for both camping styles.
Maneuvering challenges on narrow roads: Several reviewers mention tight access roads at Lakeside Pines Campground. Katie B. cautions, "The road is tight so be prepared to drive close to trees." Larger rigs should consider campgrounds specifically marked as big-rig friendly.
Extension cord requirements: Ed C. advises at Acres of Wildlife, "Be sure to bring extensions for electrical and sewer as a lot of sites are set up with difficult connection spots. Relatively level sites, long dirt road to get to is a bit of a problem."
