Several campgrounds near Ogunquit offer camping options within 15 miles of town. The coastal region features sandy beaches alternating with rocky outcroppings, with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F during peak season. Many campgrounds in the area remain open from mid-May through mid-October, with some sites providing direct water access.
What to do
Kayaking on salt marshes: At Sandy Pines Campground, campers can explore tidal waterways leading to the ocean. "There is a small waterway that leads right out to some tidal rivers that go to the ocean, great for kayaking and fishing. Beautiful wooded sites with sunrises over the marshes," notes camper J.W.
Mountain biking on local trails: The area offers excellent biking opportunities connecting natural preserves. "For those so inclined, there is great mountain biking either through the Tyler Preserve down to Cape Porpoise or North through the Emmitt Smith Preserve," shares Joe R. from Sandy Pines.
Beach access without crowds: Several campgrounds offer proximity to less-crowded beaches. "Ride 10 minutes in the opposite direction and you arrive at Goose Rocks Beach, the best shoreline beach on southern Maine," notes Chris from Sandy Pines, providing alternatives to the main Ogunquit Beach.
Visiting coastal lighthouses: Dixons Coastal Maine Campground provides convenient access to iconic Maine lighthouses. "Don't miss Nubble Light House and Fox's Lobster house. Around the corner is a great Ice Cream shop," recommends Bob W.
What campers like
Clean, updated facilities: Old Orchard Beach Campground receives praise for its well-maintained amenities. "Recent renovation and focus on the facilities have yielded excellent results. We have been three times now and will go many times again. Pull-thru and back in RV sites are very roomy and well laid out," writes Steve K.
Proximity to dining options: Campers appreciate the easy access to local restaurants from campgrounds. "Sandy Pines is located 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," mentions Chris.
Heated pools for variable weather: Sea-Vu West Premier RV Resort offers temperature-controlled swimming options. "Roads are paved so kids can ride their bikes with ease. Place is very clean and close to the beech. Staff is very friendly and accommodating," shares Nick, highlighting amenities beyond beach access.
Variety of accommodation options: Many glamping destinations near Ogunquit feature multiple lodging types. "Sandy Pines has impeccably maintained campsites for all style of camper and tent. If you do not have either one, you can rent one of their super funky Gypsy Wagons, A Frame chalets or Glam-tents on the platform. Just add yourself and stir," writes Chris.
What you should know
Off-season availability: Many campgrounds offer different experiences in shoulder seasons. "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," says Marilea G. about Sandy Pines, noting autumn camping benefits.
Tent camping limitations: Some luxury campgrounds aren't ideal for traditional tent setups. At Sandy Pines, Tim S. notes: "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."
Site privacy varies significantly: Beaver Dam Campground and others offer varying levels of seclusion. "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," explains Pat.
Beach transportation options: Some campgrounds provide alternatives to driving. At Old Orchard Beach Campground, "There is a trolly that will take you to the city for $2, but if you have a bicycle it is a quick 15-minute ride to the beach," explains Shawn B.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: York Beach Camper Park offers easy beach access for families. "We stayed here in June for the weekend. The staff are super friendly and it's very close to the beach. We loved being able to walk down for sunset and sunrise each day!" shares Katie R.
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with play areas for children. "The playground and pool were a hit with the kids. The bathrooms were always clean and single user, some had showers as well. The proximity to goose rocks beach was a major plus!" writes Kaileigh K. about Sandy Pines.
Activity planning for rainy days: Several glamping options near Ogunquit have indoor alternatives. Old Orchard Beach Campground provides "a basketball court, Wiffle ball field, horseshoes, badminton, playgrounds, arcade, swimming pools and hot tub, group bonfire, and dog park," according to Nancy W.
Seasonal programming: Many campgrounds offer structured activities during peak months. "There are SO many amazing activities for the whole family. Would absolutely recommend!" notes Joseph I. about Beaver Dam Campground.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Bentley's Saloon and Campground provides complete RV services. "Been planning to do this for 2 years.. finally made it! If you are into Harley Davidson and riding motorcycles then this is your place. Clean campground, very good price, clean bathrooms," reports Mark A.
Site leveling considerations: Check site terrain when booking. "Our gravel site was perfectly level with no potholes and the roads leading to our site were easy to navigate in our 45' motorhome," notes Nancy W. about Old Orchard Beach Campground.
RV size restrictions: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "The only reason I give it 4 instead of five stars is that there are only a few transient sites that can handle a camper over 30ft," explains Steve K. about Sandy Pines.
Winter storage options: For seasonal visitors considering glamping in Ogunquit, Maine for multiple trips, check if the campground offers storage. Most luxury sites don't provide off-season RV storage, requiring alternative arrangements.
