Camping options near Kittery, Maine range from wooded inland sites to coastal locations within a 30-mile radius. The region experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F from June through August, with coastal areas often 5-10 degrees cooler than inland campgrounds due to ocean breezes. Fall camping extends into October with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 40s, requiring warmer sleeping gear.
What to do
Beach access and exploration: Sites at York Beach Camper Park provide easy walking distance to Short Sands Beach. "We loved being able to walk down for sunset and sunrise each day!" notes camper Katie R., who stayed there in June.
Kayaking and canoeing: Pawtuckaway State Park Campground offers water activities on its series of connected ponds. "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," explains Matt R.
Mountain biking trails: Bear Brook State Park features extensive biking networks accessible directly from campsites. One reviewer mentioned, "Mountain biking is awesome here, can ride right off the campground and onto the trails! Will def be coming back." The park maintains over 40 miles of trails ranging from beginner to advanced.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded water-view options at Beaver Dam Campground. A camper named Pat shared, "Small quiet campground not too far from Dover, NH. Sites are narrow but wooded. Bathrooms are modern and spotless. Owners on site are wonderful. The pond is tranquil and our site was right on the pond."
Clean facilities: Wakeda Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. Zachary W. noted, "Great employees, clean reliable power. No issues great spread out sites," while Kelly F. commented, "We have been camping here for many years. The staff and seasonal campers are all very friendly. The campground and bathrooms are kept very clean."
Family-oriented atmosphere: Most campgrounds in the Kittery region feature playgrounds and organized activities. According to Lisa H. at Winding River Campground, "We had a great time here camping with our kids and grandkids. River is not much to look at but the pool was great and there were great events like foam parties, DJ at the pool, pancake breakfast and live music to name a few."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds require booking months ahead for summer weekends. At Bear Brook State Park, one camper observed, "During the peak season, I'm sure it's a different story given its proximity to Concord and Manchester and the variety of activities available."
Weather considerations: Coastal locations experience fog and cooler temperatures than inland sites. Pack layers regardless of season as nighttime temperatures can drop significantly even in summer.
Mosquito preparation: Wooded areas near water can have significant mosquito populations. Campers at Sea Coast Camping noted the presence of mosquitoes in low-lying areas, particularly in June and July after rainfall.
Site selection variations: Research specific site numbers when booking. At Dixons Coastal Maine Campground, one camper advises, "Site can vary in size. So check when you book that your site will be big enough."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Sea Coast Camping offers well-maintained swimming facilities for kids. Stephen R. reported, "Very nice campground, well maintained, beautiful lake," making it suitable for families seeking water recreation without ocean conditions.
Playground options: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Wakeda Campground, facilities include "trading post that had camping goods and snacks, WiFi hotspot, pool table, and lounging area. They also had a game room, miniature golf, coffee shop and dog park."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature observation possibilities. One visitor to Wakeda noted, "Walking around we saw wild turkeys, bunnies, and a hummingbird."
Shower considerations: Most campgrounds charge for showers. One camper at Dixons advised, "It's 50 cents for 5 minutes to take a shower (unheard of) with hot water. There is even hot water to wash your dishes next to the bathrooms."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks. At Tuxbury Pond RV Campground, a reviewer noted, "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."
Water quality varies: Several campgrounds offer excellent water quality. Chuck H. at Sea Coast Camping noted, "No issues with electric, sewer or water hookups. Some of the best clear, clean, drinking water at high pressure we have come across."
Navigating interior roads: Some campgrounds have tight access roads. One RVer mentioned, "The roads in the park are fairly narrow and we had to drive over the grass across from our site in order to back in." Plan your approach strategy before arrival.
Seasonal glamping close to Kittery, Maine: For those seeking luxury glamping near Kittery, several campgrounds offer specialized accommodations. Beaver Dam Campground provides cabin options with amenities not found in traditional tent camping.
