RV camping near Fryeburg, Maine provides access to various recreational opportunities with seven distinct lakes within a 20-mile radius. The White Mountain National Forest borders the area to the west, while the Saco River flows through town offering prime kayaking conditions from April through October. Winter temperatures frequently drop below 0°F, making most camping options seasonal.
What to do
Kayaking on Scarborough Marsh: Located near Wild Duck Adult Campground & RV Park, the marsh offers excellent paddling opportunities. "In theory, you can launch a kayak from the campground, but I would not recommend it. There is a culvert under Rt 9 that you need to pass under which is dangerous - the Audubon Center informed us that people have flipped in the culvert due to the current," notes Heather C., suggesting using the nearby Audubon center for safer launches.
Biking on Eastern Trail: This multi-use gravel path is accessible about 1.3 miles from Wild Duck campground. Kevin W. mentions, "My wife and I enjoy riding our bikes on rail trails. This quiet campground is about a mile from the Eastern Trail through the Scarborough Marsh."
Hiking at Franconia Notch: Just 30 miles from Fryeburg, Cannon Mountain RV Park offers access to several trails. Jean C. describes, "Just across the street is the short but rewarding hike up Artists Bluff, giving you a view into Franconia Notch; continue along the ridge and you'll enjoy the western views from Bald Mountain. The 8.8 mile multi-use recreation trail runs on the far side of Echo Lake through Franconia Notch State Park."
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach receives consistent praise for cleanliness. Brittany M. notes, "The bathrooms were the cleanest I've seen camping and the staff was incredibly friendly!" while Matt R. shares, "Great campground. Sites are not too close, clean bathrooms, friendly service."
Proximity to beaches: Many campgrounds offer beach shuttle services during summer. Nancy W. explains, "In the summer there is a shuttle that takes you to the beach which is convenient. During the shoulder season dogs are allowed on the beach but not the summer."
Family-friendly amenities: Cole's Mine RV Resort and Campground stands out for younger families. Laura C. shares, "This place is perfect for small families or parents of younger kids. 2 amazing playgrounds, clean facilities and one amazing pool." Another camper adds, "Super fun pool and a small campground so not many people crowding the pool."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate from May through mid-October. According to Kevin W., "We had a 'seasonal' site for two nights in September. It was very large and level with a picnic table and fire ring."
Insects: Mosquitoes can be problematic in certain areas, especially near marshlands. Megan W. from Wild Duck notes, "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."
Noise considerations: Train tracks run near some campgrounds. Bryan warns about Wild Acres Sun RV Resort: "The campground map is missing the train tracks that are between the campground and the ocean. The trains all blow there horn and you will hear it if your at one of the site 'by the ocean'."
Tips for camping with families
Look for adult supervision at water activities: Some campgrounds offer monitored swimming areas. Samantha N. mentions Cole's Mine has "many nice fishing spots and lots of play areas and outdoor recreation."
Consider cabin options: For families with young children, cabins provide comfort while maintaining the camping experience. Rachel P. describes her experience: "K16 was a single room cabin that could comfortably sleep 4, furnished with a full-sized bed and a bunk bed. We were shocked to find that the cabin had electrical, lights and a small heater."
Check scheduled activities: Danforth Bay Camping & RV Resort offers organized events for children. Jake C. notes, "They seem to always have events & family friendly activities to keep kids entertained. I always appreciate the onsite kayak rentals for exploring the river that runs along the campground."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Given the varied terrain, choosing the right site can impact your experience. Jean C. advises at Cannon Mountain RV Park, "There is a grassy area behind the RV sites. You'll enjoy more privacy farther from the beach entry."
Pay attention to seasonal camper concentration: Many parks have a high percentage of seasonal campers. David A. observes, "More of a festival than an RV resort. Extremely crowded, close sites, and heavy car traffic in walking and bike areas. Sun night was way quieter than Fri and Sat night."
Verify hookup specifications: Different parks offer varying levels of service. At some parks, the availability of 50-amp service is limited to certain sections, while others have sites with full hookups throughout.