Kennebunkport and surrounding coastal Maine communities offer several campground and glamping options within a 30-mile radius. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with proximity to beaches, salt marshes, and coastal attractions. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing with summer highs averaging 75-80°F, making it ideal for outdoor recreation during peak season.
What to do
Kayaking on the marsh: Wild Duck Adult Campground provides access to Scarborough Marsh for paddling enthusiasts. The location offers a serene outdoor experience with natural views. One camper noted, "This quiet campground is about a mile from the Eastern Trail through the Scarborough Marsh. This campground is small but well maintained."
Beach excursions: Paradise Park Resort offers convenient beach access with transportation options to Old Orchard Beach. According to a visitor, "There is a trolley that will take you to the city for $2, but if you have a bicycle it is a quick 15-minute ride to the beach." Many campgrounds provide free shuttle services or are within walking distance of popular beaches.
Biking local trails: The Eastern Trail connects several campgrounds to scenic marsh views and coastal points. One reviewer at Wild Duck noted, "During sunrise and sunset, the marshes reflect the sun and give the perfect picture for relaxation." The trail provides a flat, accessible route suitable for casual cyclists and families.
What campers like
Adult-only accommodations: Wild Duck Adult Campground caters to adult travelers seeking a quieter experience. A reviewer shared, "Hidden Portland Gem...Close to the city of Portland, about 20 minutes, but tucked away in the beautiful riverside marsh. 21+ up, I called here short notice and they were able to bring me in for a budget friendly price."
Clean facilities: Dixons Coastal Maine Campground maintains high standards for their amenities. According to a camper, "We've been there twice and have reservations for next year. Some sites are in the woods, some are in the field. The pool and restrooms are spotless." Most area campgrounds feature regularly maintained bathrooms and shower facilities.
Off-season camping: Visiting in September or early October offers a different experience with fewer crowds. A visitor to Dixons noted, "We took a mid-September vacation and love how nice it is with fellow campers spread out. We are not resort campers, but this is very nice now that children are back in school."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly with different levels of privacy and shade. At Old Orchard Beach Campground, a reviewer reported, "Our gravel site was perfectly level with no potholes and the roads leading to our site were easy to navigate in our 45' motorhome. The patio was gravel and there was some grass between campsites."
Insects can be problematic: The proximity to marshes means mosquitoes are common, particularly in early summer. One camper at Wild Duck advised, "BRING BUGSPRAY!!! The campground was veeerrryyy quiet, we almost felt bad making noise as we set up upon arrival. The grounds were well maintained and the owners were very nice and accommodating. The only negative of this place was the mosquitoes."
Noise considerations: Train tracks run near some campgrounds, creating periodic noise disruptions. A camper at Wild Acres Sun RV Resort observed, "The Good with the Bad... the campground map is missing the train tracks that are between the campground and the ocean. The trains all blow their horn and you will hear it if your at one of the sites 'by the ocean'."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Bayley's Camping Resort offers multiple swimming options for different age groups. A visitor mentioned, "There is a kids pool and a pool for the adults only w/bar. A pond for fishing, there are kayaks etc... Shower throughout and I might add very clean."
Seasonal planning: Most family-friendly amenities operate fully during peak summer months. One reviewer noted, "We took a mid- September vacation and love how nice it is with fellow campers spread out. We are not resort campers, but this is very nice now that children are back in school."
Transportation options: Many campgrounds offer shuttle service to nearby beaches and attractions. A reviewer shared, "Old Orchard Beach is known for their amusement park, arcade, pier, fun downtown, and expansive beach with seven miles of room to walk. And the best thing is there is a trolley that takes you from the campground to the beach so you don't have to deal with parking."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Sea Vu Campground, RVers appreciate the well-maintained sites. According to one camper, "It was very clean and convenient. The best bathhouse that I have seen. The only negative is the site we stayed at was mostly dirt and it rained and was a mess."
Seasonal considerations: Fall camping offers unique advantages for RV travelers. A reviewer noted, "We stayed here to see the fall colors. The park is laid out very nice. The sites are nice size with gravel. They are under trees so we could watch the colors change."
Connectivity concerns: WiFi quality varies significantly between campgrounds. One RVer at Old Orchard Beach Campground mentioned, "Great sense of community. Overly friendly people at the front desk that are accommodating. The spaces are very close to each other. The Wi-Fi does not work very well (WFH employees trying to see the world)."
