Tent sites near Kennebunk, Maine offer rustic camping alternatives just a short drive from the town's coastal attractions. The camping season typically runs May through October, with most local campgrounds situated within pine forests that provide natural shade. Nighttime temperatures can drop below 50°F even during summer months, requiring appropriate sleeping gear.
What to do
Beach access options: Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach provides trolley service to Old Orchard Beach during summer months. According to one visitor, "This campground is four miles from Old Orchard Beach which is a trip. It is a throw-back from your childhood when carnival rides and funnel cakes made you so happy."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge offers walking trails through coastal marshlands near Kennebunk. A camper noted, "A great place to explore is Rachael Carson National Wildlife Refuge. There is a small welcome center and trails that wind through the marsh with some beautiful views (and dog-friendly)."
Water recreation: Paddle sports are available on the Saco River Marsh, with boat rentals nearby. "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," reports a Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach visitor.
What campers like
Natural screening between sites: The tent camping areas at many campgrounds provide some privacy through natural vegetation. One camper at Huttopia Southern Maine reported, "Grounds are manicured and aimed to be family friendly."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness receives consistent praise at most Kennebunk area campgrounds. "The bathrooms were the cleanest I've seen camping and the staff was incredibly friendly!" notes one visitor to Sun Outdoors Saco.
Local food options: On-site dining provides convenience at several campgrounds. A camper mentioned, "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."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends near Kennebunk. Weekday availability remains more flexible through the season.
Transportation considerations: Some campgrounds provide shuttle services to beaches and local attractions. "There was a trolley to the beach but lots to do at the campground too," explains a visitor to Salmon Falls River RV Resort and Family Campground.
Site selection strategy: Request sites away from main roads for tent camping. "My sister and I lucked out with our cabin and the cul-de-sac it was in. It overlooked the woods and was a bit more secluded than many of the other sites. KK15, K3, K2 and K1 are great options as well, located along the wooded edges of the grounds," advises a Sun Outdoors camper.
Seasonal weather preparation: Pack for variable conditions with temperatures ranging from 50-85°F during camping season. Rain gear is essential as coastal storms can develop quickly.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Multiple swimming options exist beyond ocean beaches. "If you have young kids this place is so fun! Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!! My niece had so much fun!" reports a visitor at Salmon Falls River RV Resort.
Campground activities: Structured programming keeps children engaged at many locations. A camper noted, "Kid activities were done regularly. Pizza and breakfast is very good if you do lunch want to cook. Outdoor movies were fun."
Day trip destinations: Funtown Splashtown USA water park operates just outside Saco, approximately 20 minutes from Kennebunk. "If you have kids and like water parks, Funtown Splashtown USA is a popular place especially on warm days and just down the street," suggests a Mac's Camping Area visitor.
Noise considerations: Select tent sites further from common areas for earlier quiet hours. Several campgrounds maintain family sections away from the main activity centers.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Tent campers should note that some campgrounds primarily cater to RVs. "The road was very narrow and we were very close to some RV's that had been on the property for decades," reports a visitor to Viewland Campground.
Walk-in options: For tent campers seeking more seclusion, some campgrounds offer walk-in sites separate from RV areas. "Campsites are level and site is fairly easy to maneuver with bigger rigs. Have great activities daily for the kids a nice store onsite," notes a Salmon Falls visitor.
Water access: Campgrounds with lake or river access provide additional recreation options. "Mac's camping has large RV Sites with access to their private beach & boat launch!" reports a Saco Bound camper who added, "Right on Saco river. Gets busy in the summer."
