Tent campsites near Ogunquit, Maine range from basic walk-in sites to full-service camping areas with amenities. Most campgrounds open from mid-May through mid-October when temperatures average 70-80°F during summer days and 50-60°F at night. The coastal region receives moderate rainfall year-round, with August typically being the driest month for camping in the area.
What to do
Beach exploration: The Saco region offers less crowded alternatives to Ogunquit's main beaches, especially during weekdays. At Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach, campers can take advantage of the beach shuttle service. "There is a trolley to the beach which is convenient. During the shoulder season dogs are allowed on the beach but not the summer," notes Nancy W.
Wildlife viewing: Set aside time to visit natural areas around camping spots. "A great place to explore is Rachael Carson National Wildlife Refuge. There is a small welcome center and trails that wind through the marsh with beautiful views (and dog-friendly)," shares one camper about excursions from their Saco campsite.
Water activities: Rivers near camping areas provide paddling opportunities away from ocean crowds. "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," advises a visitor.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campers prefer woodland tent sites for privacy. Cape Ann Camp Site offers particularly well-spaced sites according to visitors. "Cape Ann Campground is clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites. The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites," reports Della S.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms consistently rank high in camper reviews. One visitor to Huttopia Southern Maine noted, "Grounds are manicured and aimed to be family friendly," highlighting the attention to cleanliness at camping areas near Ogunquit.
Food options: On-site dining receives praise from tent campers who appreciate break from cooking. "The on-site Merry Moose cafe was definitely a nice touch! I can't say this was truly 'camping' but it wasn't bad!" shares Rachel P. about her experience at a nearby campground.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Summer weekends book months in advance, particularly for sites with water views or prime shade. Off-season camping offers more availability and lower rates.
Shower facilities: Pay showers are common at campgrounds in the region. "Clean Bathrooms and pay showers (5 cents)," notes Della S. about facilities at Cape Ann Camp Site, while other campgrounds may charge more for shower access.
Seasonal closures: Most camping facilities near Ogunquit shut down by mid-October. "We stayed for 3 nights in a pop-up while my mother rented a cabin. We loved that were able to stay right next to each other and were still in nice wooded sites with an awesome space for the fire," notes Erin M. about Salmon Falls River RV Resort and Family Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water attractions: Family-oriented campgrounds often feature pools and water amenities. "Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!! My niece had so much fun!" reports Samantha N. about Salmon Falls River RV Resort.
Organized activities: Look for campgrounds with scheduled family events. "Kid activities were done regularly. Pizza and breakfast is very good if you do lunch want to cook. Outdoor movies were fun," shares Jill P.
Cabin options: Consider cabin rentals for mixed family camping experiences. "We stayed for 3 nights in a pop-up while my mother rented a cabin. We loved that were able to stay right next to each other and were still in nice wooded sites with an awesome space for the fire," notes a visitor to Viewland Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request wooded RV sites for better privacy when available. "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," shares Cristina P. about her experience at Cape Ann.
Local attractions: RVers benefit from using campgrounds as base camps. "This campground is close to Old Orchard Beach, the city of Portland, and towns of Kennebunkport, Ogunquit, Wells and Kittery Outlets. We enjoy staying here," notes Ben P. about Browns Ridge Family Farm.
Utility access: Check water and electrical hookup availability when reserving tent sites. "We paid $60 a night for a 30 amp spot with water," reports Ben E., providing a concrete example of utility costs in the region.