Best Tent Camping near Orrs Island, ME

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Coastal forests surrounding Orrs Island, Maine provide several tent camping options within a short drive. Rustic Retreat, located approximately 20 miles from Orrs Island, offers walk-in tent sites with basic amenities in a wooded setting. Tiny Cabins of Maine, situated about 35 miles north, features dedicated tent camping sites with pond access and wooden platforms. Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach, though primarily an RV park, maintains designated tent-only areas with tall pine trees providing natural shade for tent campers seeking coastal proximity.

Most tent campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with limited availability during shoulder seasons. Tent sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables, though amenities vary significantly between locations. Rustic Retreat provides basic toilet facilities and trash disposal but lacks drinking water at individual sites. Tent campers should prepare for variable weather conditions typical of coastal Maine, including fog and sudden temperature changes. Walk-in tent sites at Tiny Cabins of Maine require a short hike from parking areas but reward campers with greater privacy and natural settings compared to drive-in options.

Tent campers at Tiny Cabins of Maine frequently mention the serene pond views and privacy. According to one visitor, "The tent camping amenities, including the pop-up toilet and sturdy wooden platform, were thoughtfully provided," though they noted "some distant road noise at night." For primitive tent camping experiences, tent sites at Sun Outdoors offer varying levels of seclusion, with sites numbered P1-P5 providing the most shade and privacy according to camper reviews. During summer months, tent campers should book well in advance, particularly for weekend stays. Sites farther from main roads offer deeper seclusion and reduced noise levels, making them ideal for backcountry tent camping enthusiasts seeking a more authentic outdoor experience.

Best Tent Sites Near Orrs Island, Maine (13)

    1. Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach

    22 Reviews
    Saco, ME
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 282-0502

    "The campground sits among tall pine trees which offer nice shade helps alleviate some of the feel of a crowded campground. "

    "We tent camped at Saco/Old Orchard Beach KOA. The staff was very friendly and when I called to book the site, they assisted in helping us pick out the nicest campsite."

    2. Rustic Retreat

    Be the first to review!
    Isle of Springs, ME
    18 miles
    +1 (207) 380-3463

    3. Mac's Camping Area

    1 Review
    West Poland, ME
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 998-4238

    $40 - $45 / night

    "Mac's camping has large RV Sites with access to their private beach & boat launch!  Make sure to check them out and leave a review on the Dyrt about your stay!"

    CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

    4. Tops’l Farm

    2 Reviews
    Waldoboro, ME
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 640-6440

    "The common spaces are equally as luxurious. The bathhouse was just like a four-star hotel. They provide you with shampoo, conditioner and body wash. There is even a hair dryer!"

    "Located in Waldoboro, they create a wonderfully balanced experience between the outdoors and glamp.  While their model continues to evolve, camping is not available on all days/weekends.  "

    5. Tiny Cabins of Maine

    2 Reviews
    Coopers Mills, ME
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 798-3132

    $50 - $120 / night

    "I recently stayed at the Tiny Cabins of Maine with my family for two nights, opting for their tent camping site. From the moment we arrived, the host's warm welcome made us feel right at home."

    "This smaller campground offers great privacy on a large pond in the Maine forests. "

    7. Riverbend Campground

    1 Review
    Leeds, ME
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 524-5711

    8. Webbs Mills Stead

    Be the first to review!
    Casco, ME
    30 miles
    +1 (413) 813-1547

    $5 - $40 / night

    9. Hemlocks Campground

    Be the first to review!
    West Poland, ME
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (207) 998-2384

    10. Boothby's Orchard

    1 Review
    North Turner, ME
    44 miles
    Website

    "However, it is a beautiful space and well worth checking out for weddings or other get togethers. They also have cabins you can stay in as an alternative but those are limited."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 13 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Tent Camping Reviews near Orrs Island, ME

552 Reviews of 13 Orrs Island Campgrounds


  • L
    Aug. 20, 2021

    Desert of Maine Campground

    Aesthetically pleasing campground-- good for tent campers

    Desert of Maine campground is an excellent choice just 4-5 miles from the heart of Freeport at interstate exit # 22. This campground is well-imagined. Sites are close together, and some are small. There are 2 hike-in sites which are set apart. Wifi is provided throughout the campground and most sites have power. They must have studied "best practices" when designing this lovely campground. 

    I booked an extra night.

    This is an outdoor experience campground- not a wilderness adventure -- but perfect for young families…especially for those new to camping or those for whom a very sanitary classic bathroom is needed.Children find and entertain each other in the common area.

    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.. Tent sites # 2 & # 3 are short walk-in and very private, but lack easy access to the bath house. Almost all sites in this campground have shade and are under a beautiful canopy of old pine, maple and balsam.

    Site 24 is lovely & slightly set apart and cars are parked close by but not on the tent site. Site 27 is located down a steep slope and is very private but has difficult access. I would categorize site 27 as a hike-in site, but not # 24.  All sites are generally level and have been graded. Sites have scant privacy in front, but back up to forest. Sites 4, 6,17, 19, 23 & 26 have slightly more space but space is not the defining issue in this campground. RV's that are large should not try this campground. The maintenance is superb; and the thoughtful design of the overall campground is aesthetically pleasing. 

    This attractive campground is small-scale and personally managed. 

    Ice is available for purchase…as is wood. 

    Beware of speed trap on the 2 mile access road between the interstate & campground.

  • k
    Aug. 15, 2019

    Dixons Coastal Maine Campground

    LOTS of people but lovely campground

    This is an extremely large campground.  It seems that most of them on the coast of Maine are.  We didn't get a very good sight, but the person who answered the phone basically told us that when we called and it was all they had, so I can't say too much about that either (#17).  The sight was small and between the two driveways.  All of the sights seem to have rocky ground, so I recommend a sleep pad and a footprint for your tent so you don't rip the bottom.  

    Now, on to the other stuff.  There is a small playground that is weathered but in decent shape.  The pool is lovely and meticulously kept.  The grounds, bathrooms and showers are spotless.  It's 50 cents for 5 minutes to take a shower (unheard of) with hot water.  There is even hot water to wash your dishes next to the bathrooms.

    They sell ice, wood ($7) and many "I forgots" in the store (bacon, milk, etc...).  They give you a security card to get into the grounds ($10 deposit).  The campground was SUPER quiet and quiet hours go to 8am (thank you)!  Only an RV about to leave made a ton of noise at 7.

    I would go there again.  It was a safe place close to so many things.  The beach and everything else is VERY close but not so close as to be annoying.... 5 minutes at most.

  • Jess G.
    Aug. 19, 2017

    Sebago Lake State Park Campground

    In the woods but very crowded

    This campground was in the woods and was well maintained. The campsites definitely felt like they were on top of each other and are pretty small. We picked a medium one and could barely fit 2 tents and 2 cars with a safe distance from the fire. 2 sites were within 15ft of our fire pit. The bathrooms were very clean. The lake was nice too, sandy beaches. For a large portion of our stay it torrentially downpoured. The trees allowed us to canopy a tarp but our fire pit completely flooded and we had to bail it out when the rain finally stopped. If the sites weren't so close together and small I would definitely give this place 5 stars.

  • P
    Apr. 24, 2024

    Tiny Cabins of Maine

    Wonderful Camping Spot

    I recently stayed at the Tiny Cabins of Maine with my family for two nights, opting for their tent camping site. From the moment we arrived, the host's warm welcome made us feel right at home. Despite some distant road noise at night, the overall ambiance was serene and beautiful. The tent camping amenities, including the pop-up toilet and sturdy wooden platform, were thoughtfully provided. The fire pit and picnic table were perfect for evening gatherings, and the hammock added an extra touch of relaxation. We enjoyed the pub's games and even tried our hand at axe throwing. Kayaking in the pond was a highlight, thanks to the convenient dock. While the trails required attention to follow, the directional signs helped. Overall, I highly recommend Tiny Cabins of Maine for a memorable small family retreat, and we're already looking forward to returning in the future.

  • Jason D.
    Aug. 22, 2018

    Lake Pemaquid Campground

    Crowded, but great for kids

    lots of great amenities and events for kids. tent sites are on top of each other, but easy walk to camp store and bath houses. beach access for swimming in the lake. can be noisy outside of quiet hours, but becomes surprisingly quiet later at night.

  • C
    Jul. 6, 2021

    Powder Horn Family Camping Resort

    Unbelievably clean and quiet!

    Powder Horn is the best place we’ve ever stayed. Yes, it’s large. Yes, there are people who live there for months at a time, but this park is crazy clean … roads & restrooms. It reminded me of Disney in the way we never saw trash on the ground. They have quiet hours, large pool, activities for the family, movie nights, etc. They also have a shuttle to the beach.

  • Jean C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 1, 2021

    Hermit Island Campground

    Family-focused off-grid, beachside camping

    I’ve been to nearby Popham Beach SP a few times and wanted to check out camping in the area. I’d read good things about Hermit Island. If you camp here, you won't need to venture over to Popham Beach because the beaches are on site.

    This large coastal campground has campsites nestled among trees or dunes. Where natural separation of trees and grasses are insufficient, they’ve provided visual separation between sites, adding small fences where necessary. Some are expansive with plenty of space while others you’ll be cozy with your single vehicle and tent; others are walk-in sites. Sites have picnic tables and fire rings. There are lots of narrow curvy roads to the sites; you’ll want the map and read the street signs! Pop-ups are permitted on some sites, but absolutely no hard-sided trailers, no, not even teardrops(I mention this because I’ve seen some teardroppers expect to be treated like a tent, but that’s not an option here). With all the water around, have a plan for dealing with insects.

    It’s a bit of a haul to get here once you turn off the main road, so plan to do any last minute shopping in Bath or Brunswick(30 minutes to Bath without summer traffic). I could not get cell service at the campground, though I had spotty phone coverage on the road before the turnoff, but calls dropped randomly even when I was standing still.

    Reservations are by snail mail or phone months in advance and the prices are steep compared to a no-frills campground elsewhere; you’re paying for the privilege of being on the beach. There’s a large open to the public beach near the entrance and a few smaller beaches along the island. Bring your bikes and/or wagons…you’ll want them to get to the beach, explore the trails, or ride up to the camp store/snack shop. There are places to launch a kayak.

  • J
    Jul. 8, 2020

    Papoose Pond Family Campground and Cabins

    Best. Campground. Ever.

    I spend one week at this campground every year, and I am so sad covid killed that for us this year! However, I’m going to write this to share just how awesome it is because I can’t wait to go back!

    We stay in an HHK which is a site that has its own electric stove, kitchen sink, covered picnic table, and small bathroom in the back! It’s definitely more lux than a standard site, but it makes camping with kids insanely easy. There are a million other options from plain tent sites to rentable cabins and everything in between, there’s something for everyone.

    There are two sides across a road of this campground-pond side and pool side. Pond side is a lot more crowded and desired so if you’re more into a quiet experience, stick to pool side.

    They have weekly events that we love! Tuesday trivia, Wednesday beach party, Thursday dance party, and Friday karaoke- the latter being the most fun! There are so many things for kids to do throughout as well, there’s very little time for down time or boredom!!

    My one con is the location of public restrooms. There aren’t many, hence why we stay on a site with our own, and some are extremely far away from campsites that don’t allow campers. There’s a site called the Tree House and because the treehouse is a ‘structure’ (it contains two bunk beds) you aren’t allowed to put a tent or a camper on the site. I personally think that’s absurd, because the nearest rest room is FOREVER away. I would never be able to get my kids to the bathroom in time all the way over there. It would be amazing if they changed this policy or added another bath structure. Just keep an eye on the map when you book!

    I couldn’t recommend this place more. I can’t imagine anything happening that would cause me not to return next summer or every single summer from now on. I fully intend on making this a lifetime trip.

  • Rachel P.
    Jun. 8, 2022

    Augusta / Gardiner KOA

    Endearing, but in need of a little love…

    BF and I wanted a last minute fall weekend getaway in Maine, and ended up at the Augusta-Gardiner KOA. Generally tough to accomplish during leaf-peeping season, but we worked it out. We stayed at site T5, which was wooded but pretty open. Size was decent enough.

    Overall, I’d say sites T8, T9, T10 are best if you’re tent camping. While all tent sites are tightly spaced next to one another, these 3 provide the most shade and privacy of the bunch.

    Owners are super nice, but the campground could use a little love. Bathrooms and amenities are a little tired. There’s potential though, and some really cute details, like a little fairy house and homemade, bear-carved benches around a KOA-community fire pit, that make the campground endearing. Also, there’s a bunch to do during prime season, particularly for the kiddies- pool, mini-golf, bounce house, playground and space to runaround.


Guide to Orrs Island

Tent camping near Orrs Island, Maine offers access to several forested and pond-adjacent sites within driving distance. Most primitive camping spots remain active from mid-May through mid-October with seasonal fluctuations in availability. Overnight temperatures can drop below 50°F even in summer months, requiring appropriate sleeping gear for coastal Maine weather patterns.

What to do

Kayaking pond access: Tent campers at Tiny Cabins of Maine can take advantage of the private dock for water activities. "Kayaking in the pond was a highlight, thanks to the convenient dock," notes reviewer Paige A.

Beach shuttle convenience: For tent sites without water access, Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach offers transportation to coastal areas. "There is a trolley that takes you to the beach which is convenient. During the shoulder season dogs are allowed on the beach but not the summer," mentions Nancy W.

Wildlife refuge exploration: Environmental enthusiasts camping near Orrs Island can visit the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, located approximately 30 minutes from many camping areas. "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)," according to Nancy W.

What campers like

Fire pit areas: Tent sites at Webbs Mills Stead include dedicated fire areas with firewood available for purchase. The site combines electric hookup options with traditional tent camping amenities like picnic tables.

Bath facilities: Many tent campers appreciate well-maintained restroom facilities. "The bathrooms were the cleanest I've seen camping and the staff was incredibly friendly!" writes Brittany M. about her experience at Sun Outdoors Saco, despite camping during rainy conditions.

Private tent platforms: Mac's Camping Area provides tent campers with lake access via their private beach and boat launch. "Mac's camping has large RV Sites with access to their private beach & boat launch!" notes Jake C.

What you should know

Trail navigation challenges: When hiking from tent sites, pay attention to trail markings. "While the trails required attention to follow, the directional signs helped," mentions Paige A. about exploring the paths at Tiny Cabins of Maine.

Road noise considerations: Some tent sites experience moderate traffic sound. "Despite some distant road noise at night, the overall ambiance was serene and beautiful," reports Paige A. about the tent camping at Tiny Cabins of Maine.

Event-based availability: Some camping options operate only for special occasions. Boothby's Orchard offers limited tent camping. "The campsite they have here is not open all the time and only available for special events so definitely make sure to check in advance," advises Asher K.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Families tent camping near Orrs Island appreciate campgrounds with dedicated children's areas. "Amenities include a heated pool, hot tub (adults only), basketball, volleyball, playground, and various activities like s'mores, crafts, ice cream socials and more," explains Nancy W. about Sun Outdoors.

Activity scheduling: Plan for organized family events offered by established campgrounds. "Kid activities were done regularly. Pizza and breakfast is very good if you don't want to cook. Outdoor movies were fun," shares Jill P. about her family's experience.

Site selection for shade: When tent camping with children, Riverbend Campground offers sites with natural coverage. "Just a beautiful, wild spot," notes Mike M. about the location, making it suitable for families seeking more natural surroundings.

Tips from RVers

Site spacing considerations: RV campers who set up tents for additional sleeping space note that site size matters. "Sites are not too close, clean bathrooms, friendly service," reports Matt R. about Sun Outdoors, indicating adequate room for tent expansion.

Cabin alternatives: When weather threatens tent plans, consider cabin options at established campgrounds. "We stayed for 3 nights in a pop-up while my mother rented a cabin. We loved that we were able to stay right next to each other and were still in nice wooded sites with an awesome space for the fire," shares Erin M.

Multiple bathhouse locations: Larger campgrounds maintain several restroom facilities, reducing walking distance from tent sites. "The facilities were clean and you constantly saw yellow-shirted people busily working," mentions Nancy W. about the maintenance at Sun Outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Orrs Island, ME?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Orrs Island, ME is Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach with a 4.2-star rating from 22 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Orrs Island, ME?

TheDyrt.com has all 13 tent camping locations near Orrs Island, ME, with real photos and reviews from campers.