Tent camping options near Kittery, Maine range from modest primitive sites to full-service campgrounds within a 35-mile radius. The coastal climate creates favorable camping conditions from May through mid-October, with average summer temperatures between 70-85°F during the day. Most tent sites in this region are situated on wooded terrain offering natural drainage during occasional coastal rain showers.
What to do
Swimming access: Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach provides convenient beach access via seasonal trolley service. One camper noted that "the trolley will pick you up from the campground and take you to Old Orchard Beach," eliminating parking challenges during peak season.
Environmental exploration: The Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge offers hiking trails through coastal marshlands within 30 minutes of most Kittery area campgrounds. As one visitor described, "There is a small welcome center and trails that wind through the marsh with some beautiful views (and dog-friendly)."
Water activities: The Saco River Marsh provides paddling opportunities for all skill levels. "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."
Family entertainment: Salmon Falls River RV Resort and Family Campground offers extensive on-site recreation. According to a visitor, they have "2 pools 2 hot tubes, a giant water slide that is even fun for the adults!!! Campsites are level and site is fairly easy to maneuver with bigger rigs."
What campers like
Privacy level: Tent sites at many campgrounds offer more seclusion than RV areas. At Cape Ann Camp Site, a camper mentioned that "it doesn't look like much but it is absolutely lovely when you actually pull in! We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area."
Natural surroundings: Wooded sites provide shade and habitat viewing. One visitor noted "spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc." while another mentioned appreciating "beautiful tent sites" with natural forest surroundings.
Proximity to coastal towns: Most Kittery area campgrounds offer easy access to historic villages and shopping areas. "This campground is close to Old Orchard Beach, the city of Portland, and towns of Kennebunkport, Ogunquit, Wells and Kittery Outlets."
On-site dining options: Several campgrounds feature food service, reducing meal preparation needs. "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."
What you should know
Shower facilities: Coin-operated showers are common at campgrounds in this region. At Cape Ann Camp Site, "showers require payment with quarters" with some visitors noting "25 cents per 5 minute hot shower is offered in the public restroom."
Campsite surfaces: Most tent sites feature natural surfaces rather than prepared pads. "The sites are all dirt. There is no concrete pads" is a typical observation for tent camping throughout the Kittery region.
Seasonal considerations: Most facilities operate from mid-May through mid-October. Most campgrounds list their operational dates as "May 15 - Oct 15" with limited shoulder season availability.
Reservation requirements: Advanced booking is essential during summer months, particularly for weekend stays. The most desirable tent sites at Huttopia Southern Maine fill quickly during peak season, especially for family-oriented sites.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Multiple campgrounds feature pools and water attractions. According to visitors at Salmon Falls River campground, "If you have young kids this place is so fun! Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!!"
Organized recreation: Scheduled activities keep children engaged. "Kid activities were done regularly. Pizza and breakfast is very good if you do lunch want to cook. Outdoor movies were fun."
Playground options: Military Park New Boston Air Force Station New Boston Recreation Area provides open recreation space with "nice scenery with fresh air and freedom sunshine!" ideal for active families.
Site selection strategy: Request sites away from main roads for family safety. The most family-friendly tent sites are often those "in nice wooded sites" with natural boundaries that provide playground borders.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks. According to one RVer, "Campsites are level and site is fairly easy to maneuver with bigger rigs" at Salmon Falls River, though this isn't universal across all campgrounds.
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary significantly between properties. One camper noted "they have water, sewer, and electric hookups" at Cape Ann Camp Site, while others may offer more limited services.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide on-site sanitary dumps. "There is no sewer hook up however, near the street there is a 'dump station'" reflects the typical arrangement at many facilities.
Size restrictions: Larger RVs face limitations at certain campgrounds. Several tent-focused campgrounds are marked as "NO big-rig-friendly" in their amenities listings, requiring advance research for RVers with larger setups.
