The Kittery Point area sits along Maine's southern coastline, characterized by rocky shores and wooded inland areas with elevations rarely exceeding 100 feet. Camping options near Kittery Point typically remain open from mid-May through mid-October, with peak summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and 55-65°F at night. Mosquitoes and ticks are active from late spring through early fall, making insect protection necessary for outdoor activities.
What to do
Beach access for dogs: York Beach Camper Park provides wooded sites within a 10-minute walk to Short Sands Beach. "This campsite has a great view over the ocean towards the lighthouse. The site is very tidy and toilets clean! Everything you would need available," notes one visitor who gave the park a 5-star rating.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Salisbury Beach State Reservation offers coastal wetlands with wildlife observation. "We stayed here with my partner for her birthday while we were up in the Plum Island/Rockport area. Beautiful ocean access and great facilities," reports a camper who found the location perfect for exploring the region.
Lighthouse visits: Libbys Oceanside Camp provides views of Nubble Lighthouse from several campsites. "Nubble Light house is minutes away from the campsites you can see the lighthouse from the campsite," states a reviewer who recommended visiting "Beach town village in York Maine" with its "great little shops and ice cream shops."
Whale watching excursions: Several campgrounds are within 30 minutes of whale watching tours that depart from Rye, New Hampshire. According to a Libbys Oceanside camper, "Go to Granite Whale Watching at Rye, Maine," for excellent marine wildlife viewing opportunities from late spring through early fall.
What campers like
Oceanfront privacy options: Dixons Coastal Maine Campground offers sites that vary in seclusion levels. "Some sites are in the woods, some are in the field. The pool and restrooms are spotless. There are yurts, power and water available, plus tent-only sites," explains a 5-star reviewer who has already made reservations for the next season.
Clean facilities: Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort maintains high standards. "This is one of the cleanest, most meticulously maintained campground we have been to. So quiet and peaceful as well. Wifi service was excellent," reports a camper who plans to return.
Family atmosphere: Multiple campers note that Pawtuckaway State Park Campground offers excellent water activities. "This a a fantastic little camp for if you want to go canoeing or kayaking or boating of any kind! It's set up of three islands and a large majority of the campsites are right on the water," writes a visitor who found the park ideal for families.
Off-season benefits: Many campgrounds offer significantly reduced crowds during May, June, and September while maintaining full services. "We were there in the off-season (May) and didn't have any neighbors so it was pretty quiet," notes a camper who found shoulder season visits particularly peaceful.
What you should know
Campsite spacing varies: At Libbys Oceanside Camp, "Campsites very close together, only the front row right on the ocean can make wood burning fires." Another camper notes, "Are sites very close together? Yes. We would return to Libby's tomorrow if we could, the town and location are great."
Seasonal restrictions: Some New Hampshire state parks have pet restrictions during peak months. "We stayed here twice... Tried to plan ahead this year and get a prime site to learn they don't allow dogs anywhere in the campground during summer months," reported a visitor to Pawtuckaway State Park.
Shower costs: Several campgrounds charge for showers. At Dixons, expect "50 cents for 5 minutes to take a shower with hot water," according to reviewers who found the value reasonable.
Weather considerations: Coastal Maine camping experiences frequent fog, especially in June mornings. Wakeda Campground provides inland shelter from coastal weather. "Great employees, clean reliable power. No issues great spread out sites," notes a camper who appreciated the woodland setting during variable weather conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities planning: Pawtuckaway State Park offers multiple water-based options. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" says one camper who recommends reserving waterfront sites 6 months in advance.
Playground considerations: Thousand Trails Moody Beach offers family amenities that vary by season. "For children, there is a swimming pool, a basketball court and a small playground," explains a reviewer who found the facilities sufficient for a short stay.
Budget-friendly options: Salisbury Beach State Reservation provides affordable camping with beach access. "Clean facilities, super quick access to the beach, friendly staff, sites are pretty close together with little separation between each other. RV & tent sites available," notes a family who found the value excellent despite the proximity to neighbors.
Pet-specific areas: Some campgrounds have designated dog exercise spaces. "They also had a game room, miniature golf, coffee shop and dog park," reports a Wakeda visitor who appreciated the dedicated pet amenities that keep dogs from disturbing other campers.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: At Old Stage Campground, RVers note spacious options for larger rigs. "Its a nice no frills campground. We stayed in one of cabins and it served its purpose especially during a passing storm. It was nice to sit in the front porch and watch the storm," shares a camper who found the location convenient for exploring coastal areas.
Power reliability: Multiple RVers mention consistent electrical service at campgrounds near Kittery Point. "Our site (#124) was one of the new sites which they had just completed. It was a gravel back-in which was plenty long and level," notes a Sea Coast camper who appreciated the recently upgraded infrastructure.
Water pressure considerations: RV users report variable water pressure at coastal campgrounds. "Some of the best clear, clean, drinking water at high pressure we have come across," comments a reviewer at Sea Coast who found this aspect particularly noteworthy compared to other New England campgrounds.
Seasonal site availability: For pet-friendly RV camping near Kittery Point, booking early is essential. "Half of the park is seasonal campers (which is a lot more cramped and more junked up) and the other half is for transients," explains a visitor who recommends requesting sites in newer sections when making reservations.
Guide
