RV sites near New Gloucester, Maine offer diverse camping experiences during spring and fall shoulder seasons when temperatures range from 30-70°F. The area's mix of pine forests and coastal marshland creates distinct camping environments within a 30-mile radius. Most campgrounds in this region operate from April through mid-October, with peak rates during July and August when advanced reservations become essential.
What to do
Beach access with trolley service: At Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach, a trolley picks you up directly from the campground for beach outings. "The trolley will pick you up from the campground and take you to Old Orchard Beach. Very friendly staff. Kid activities were done regularly. Pizza and breakfast is very good if you do lunch want to cook. Outdoor movies were fun," notes Jill P.
Kayaking the marshes: The Scarborough Marsh offers paddling opportunities near several campgrounds. "In theory, you can launch a kayak from the campground, but I would not recommend it. There is a culvert under Rt 9 that you need to pass under which is dangerous - the Audubon Center informed us that people have flipped in the culvert due to the current," warns a camper about the waterways near Wild Duck Adult Campground & RV Park.
Wildlife refuge exploration: The Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge provides hiking trails through coastal marshlands. "A great place to explore is Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. There is a small welcome center and trails that wind through the marsh with some beautiful views (and dog-friendly)," shares Nancy W. about day trip options when staying near Old Orchard Beach.
What campers like
Heated pools and amenities: Cole's Mine RV Resort and Campground receives high marks for its recreational facilities. "Super fun pool and a small campground so not many people crowding the pool. Many nice fishing spots and lots of play areas and outdoor recreation. Owner was around and super nice!" notes Samantha N.
Adult-only environments: For those seeking quieter camping experiences, adult-focused options exist. "This adult only campground is peaceful and quiet, with the sounds of birds and the trees being the main thing you hear - it is quite relaxing. It has both tent and rv sites, some with full hookup and some with power and water only," explains Heather C. about Wild Duck Adult Campground.
Wooded sites vs. open layouts: Campgrounds offer varied site types based on preference. "We had our choice of wooded sites or new sites with gravel. The wooded sites are pull through and back in, depending on the row. There are cabins and rentals as well. Fire pits and charcoals grills at all wooded sites," reports Kasey M. about her stay at Thousand Trails Moody Beach.
What you should know
Train noise near beaches: At some oceanside campgrounds, proximity to train tracks affects the camping experience. "And now the Bad: most sites your right on top of each other. And the campground map is missing the train tracks that are between the campground and the ocean. The trains all blow there horn and you will hear it if your at one of the site 'by the ocean'," warns Bryan about his experience at Wild Acres Sun RV Resort.
Mosquito preparation: The Scarborough Marsh area requires bug protection, especially in early summer. "The only negative of this place was the mosquitoes. They were TERRIBLE. In the time it took after we parked the camper, to when I could dig the bug spray out of our truck I was covered in bites," shares Megan W. about her June visit.
Site density varies significantly: Many RV parks pack sites closely together, particularly in newer sections. "The 30 amp sites are very close together. The campground layout is quite unusual, with campers parked lengthwise along the road. This means that you share the space where you sit outside with the camper behind you, resulting in very little privacy," notes Arno W. about the layout at Thousand Trails Moody Beach.
Tips for camping with families
Shoulder season advantages: Avoiding peak summer periods offers better value and less crowding. "We took our family of 5, and my mom for a weekend getaway! It was perfect. So much to do. Women's room by the tent sites had a couple problems, like a shower stall out of order, but not a big deal. Very quiet at night, which is helpful in such a family environment," shares Emily B. about Thousand Trails Moody Beach.
Movie nights and scheduled activities: Shamrock Campground offers family-friendly entertainment. "Owners are so nice. Camping spots are a bit cramped. We have a huge tent. But everyone was super nice. Kids had a blast with Friday and Saturday movie nights," says Leona about their family experience.
Bathroom cleanliness considerations: Facility maintenance varies by campground. "The bathrooms were very clean. I will say that at Saco/Old Orchard Beach KOA the bathrooms were the cleanest I've seen camping and the staff was incredibly friendly!" reports Brittany M. about the facilities during her stay, despite camping in wet conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For RV campers near New Gloucester, site location impacts your camping experience. "This spot is central to local spots in Ogunquit, ME or Wells, ME. The spots in the front are the newest area of the park and mainly available for the 50AMP consumers," suggests The G. about Naples Campground.
Seasonal amenities timing: Many campground facilities operate on limited schedules. "We came in in October, the foliage is beautiful on the 'wooded' sites. Lounge closed for Covid, pool closed for season. Events and activities are run by management. Great location for beach and stores," notes Kasey M. about her off-season experience.
Thousand Trails membership value: For frequent RVers, membership programs offer cost savings. "Consider the Thousand Trails membership when booking this site. Our annual membership fees basically covered what it would cost to camp here for two weeks," advises Paulina B. about camping at Thousand Trails Moody Beach.