Campgrounds near Ogunquit are nestled within southern Maine's rocky coastline where the average summer temperature ranges from 70-80°F during the day, dropping to the 50s at night. Most campgrounds in this region sit on relatively flat terrain with mixed wooded and open sites, typically at elevations under 100 feet above sea level. Fall camping extends through mid-October when nighttime temperatures can dip into the 40s.
What to do
Beach shuttles and trolleys: Many campers use trolley services from Sandy Pines Campground to avoid parking fees at popular beaches. "The proximity to goose rocks beach was a major plus!" notes Kaileigh K., highlighting the convenience of beach access without driving.
Kayaking in tidal waters: Paddle directly from campsites into connected waterways. J.W. at Sandy Pines comments, "There is a small waterway that leads right out to some tidal rivers that go to the ocean, great for kayaking and fishing."
Fall foliage viewing: Visit in autumn for colorful landscapes with fewer crowds. Marilea G. shares, "We stayed here to see the fall colors. The park is laid out very nice. The sites are nice size with gravel. They are under trees so we could watch the colors change."
Lighthouse visits: Libbys Oceanside Camp offers views of iconic Maine lighthouses. One camper notes, "Nubble Light house is minutes away from the campsites you can see the lighthouse from the campsite."
What campers like
Ocean views from campsites: The direct sight of water is a top draw at coastal locations. At Libbys Oceanside Camp, "Many sites right on the oceanfront. Many pull thru sites with ocean views," mentions Peter F., emphasizing the premium ocean-view locations.
Clean bathroom facilities: Beaver Dam Campground receives consistent praise for cleanliness. Nancy states, "Campground is superior in its warmth, cleanliness, dog friendly and access to points of interest."
Swimming options: Many campgrounds offer both pool access and ocean swimming. Pat from Beaver Dam Campground appreciates both: "The pond is tranquil and our site was right on the pond."
Proximity to coastal towns: Campers value being near multiple communities rather than just one beach town. Chris from Sandy Pines mentions being "a very short bike ride from Cape Porpoise, home of Nunann's Restaurant, Mussette, Lost Fire and Pier 77. Some of the best food in the area without having to deal with the crushing crowds of the Kennebunkport scene."
What you should know
Site layout variations: Thousand Trails Moody Beach has unusual configurations. Arno W. notes, "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."
WiFi limitations: Many campgrounds advertise WiFi but service can be spotty. At Sun Outdoors Wells Beach, Russ V. reports, "Stayed back in 2023 with travel trailer and experienced almost zero wifi signal as well as verizon cell signal."
Tent camping challenges: Some campgrounds primarily cater to RVs with limited tent options. Tim S. observed at Sandy Pines, "The most significant con was that this campground is truly only for RV camping. Us tent campers were on sites with zero trees. It almost felt as if they were trying to dissuade tent campers from coming here."
Reservation requirements: Weekly minimum stays apply at certain campgrounds, particularly during peak season. Cape Neddick Oceanside Campground has "weekly or longer rental spots" according to Peter F., limiting options for short-term visitors.
Tips for camping with families
Playground quality: Check facility ages and conditions before booking. Sun Outdoors Wells Beach has "playgrounds are older and could definitely use updates" according to Aliceon W., while Sea-Vu West Premier RV Resort offers "a nice play area with really nice playground equipment" per Susan J.
Pool availability: Heated pools extend swimming season when ocean waters are too cold. Celeste C. from Sandy Pines notes, "The pool is heated and very inviting."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Emily B. at Thousand Trails Moody Beach appreciates the "Very quiet at night, which is helpful in such a family environment."
Pet policies: Rules vary significantly between campgrounds. While many welcome pets, Cape Neddick Oceanside Campground doesn't allow pets at all, which may impact family plans.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Dixons Coastal Maine Campground requires careful booking. Dan G. advises, "Site can vary in size. So check when you book that your site will be big enough."
Seasonal camping options: For longer stays, consider seasonal arrangements. At Thousand Trails Moody Beach, Austin M. recommends, "Great place to have or visit for the summer/fall. Super friendly area with a lot to do at the campground."
Campground memberships: Some locations offer better value through membership programs. Paulina B. suggests, "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."
Big rig accessibility: Limited options exist for larger RVs. Steve K. notes that Sandy Pines has "only a few transient sites that can handle a camper over 30ft," which requires advance planning for those with larger rigs.
