Camping options near North Yarmouth, Maine include both inland forests and coastal settings within a short drive. The area sits at just 80 feet above sea level, creating easy access to both the Atlantic Ocean and numerous freshwater ponds with minimal elevation changes. Summer camping temperatures typically range from 60-80°F, while spring and fall can drop into the 40s at night, requiring proper bedding for comfortable tent camping.
What to do
Kayaking at Scarborough Marsh: Launch from Wild Duck Campground for easy access to protected waterways. "It is within a mile of the Audubon center office, where you can either put in your own kayak/canoe or rent one," notes one camper at Wild Duck Adult Campground, though they caution about launching directly from camp.
Mountain biking at Bradbury Mountain: The network of trails starts right at the campground with no need for additional driving. "Lots and LOTS of trails surrounding the campground. Great for biking and trail running," reports a Bradbury Mountain State Park visitor who praised the convenience of direct trail access.
Explore working farms: See sustainable agriculture in action at several area campgrounds. A visitor to Recompence Shore explained, "This campground is located on an organic dairy farm. There is a farm cafe on site with local food. We loved that! We went into Freeport and did a lobster charter on the Jenny ellen boat."
What campers like
Clean, modern bathrooms: The renovated facilities at Desert of Maine receive particular praise. "The bathrooms and showers were some of the nicest I have EVER seen at a campground (public or private)," reported one Desert of Maine Campground visitor who also appreciated the completely remodeled grounds.
Outdoor cooking amenities: Bradbury Mountain provides a community kitchen area for meal prep. "The kitchen/dish washing lean-to was a wonderful addition! Loved that it had a coffee maker," noted one visitor who found this feature particularly useful during their stay.
Beach shuttles and water access: Several campgrounds offer transportation to nearby beaches. At Bayley's Camping Resort, "You will definitely want to take the short drive (or the free shuttle service offered at the campground) to the nearby beach and visit the beachy boardwalk town of Old Orchard Beach."
What you should know
Insect considerations: Mosquitoes can be intense in certain locations, especially near marshes. "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," warned a camper at Wild Duck Adult Campground.
Advance planning required: Sites with ocean views book up quickly. "Each site offered cable but for whatever reason ours didn't work so I'm not sure if that was for the whole campground or just our site," mentioned a Wassamki Springs visitor who also noted spotty cell and internet service.
Seasonal variations: Camping experiences differ dramatically by season. "This visit we had our hybrid camper in one of the wooded sites. The Halloween celebration is really well done- campers decorate their sites, there is an in-costume parade, and the central, bigger rigs are set up for trick or treating," reported a Freeport/Durham KOA camper describing their fall experience.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Many area campgrounds welcome pets but have specific rules. "We give this park two thumbs up for their dog park which is ten times the size of the average KOA dog park. My lab had plenty of room to run and chase a ball and there were never any other dogs there which was nice."
Water recreation for kids: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas and water activities. "The pond is warm water and sandy entrances although a little mucky further in from fallen pine needles. Water shoes suggested," advises a Wassamki Springs visitor about the swimming conditions.
Educational experiences: Farm-based campgrounds offer learning opportunities. "The kids playgrounds are dangerous with huge pieces of concrete protruding out of ground around the base of slides and swings. Lots of stubbed toes and cut feet," warned a Bayley's Camping Resort visitor, suggesting closer supervision may be needed.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Choose based on privacy needs and campground layout. "Sites 19-27 face a shared square with excellent access to the modern and stylish bath house. Other sites have a somewhat further walk. Sites 17-27 are best for tents due to the configuration of the sites," advises a Sebago Lake State Park visitor who carefully researched site options.
Seasonal deals: Significant cost savings are available outside peak periods. "Nightly rates in peak season are outrageous but you can find much cheaper rates if you stay in the shoulder season or go with 30 amp electric and no sewer," noted a camper about pricing variations at Bayley's Camping Resort.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional equipment for proper setup. "Site 18 was not level and we had difficulty leveling our small motorhome. The campfire was also too close to the tent spot," reported a Desert of Maine Campground visitor, suggesting bringing leveling blocks when camping in the area.
