The coastal camping opportunities near Peaks Island, Maine center around the numerous small bays and inlets that stretch from Portland to Kennebunkport. Many campgrounds in this region sit at elevations under 100 feet, creating easy access to both sandy beaches and protected marshlands. Most locations experience morning fog patterns from June through September, with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 80°F during camping season.
What to do
Kayaking at the marsh: The Scarborough Marsh area provides excellent paddling opportunities for campers staying at Wild Duck Adult Campground. "It is within a mile of the Audubon center office, where you can either put in your own kayak/canoe or rent one," notes Heather C. The marsh offers wildlife viewing with minimal boat traffic.
Visit working farms: Farm-based camping allows visitors to experience agricultural life while enjoying oceanfront camping. "This campground is located on an organic dairy farm. There is a farm cafe on site with local food. We loved that," shares Tonya M. from Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Campground. Many children enjoy seeing farm animals up close.
Beach trolley services: Several campgrounds offer convenient transportation to nearby beaches, eliminating parking hassles. "There is a trolley that will pick you up from the campground and take you to Old Orchard Beach," explains Jill P. from Sun Outdoors Saco. Beach access without parking concerns appeals to families wanting to maximize beach time.
What campers like
Adult-only camping options: For those seeking quieter environments, adult-focused campgrounds provide peaceful alternatives. "This adult only campground is peaceful and quiet, with the sounds of birds and the trees being the main thing you hear - it is quite relaxing," mentions Heather C. about Wild Duck Adult Campground.
Modern bathroom facilities: Several campgrounds have invested in high-quality shower facilities. At Desert of Maine Campground, "the restrooms and showers were some of the nicest I have EVER seen at a campground (public or private)," according to Tucker B. LoneCamper C. adds that the bathrooms are "modern, clean and individual shower rooms. Spotless."
Proximity to coastal towns: Many campers appreciate the balance between natural settings and access to nearby attractions. "Downtown Freeport, with lots of stores and LLBean, is within a 5 minute drive," reports Heather J. from Winslow Park And Campground. This allows campers to enjoy shopping and dining options during their stay.
What you should know
Reservation timing matters: The most desirable waterfront sites book quickly, especially at popular campgrounds. At Hermit Island Campground, the reservation system is "very old school - mail a letter and wait," explains Lauren A., and "the beach sites look amazing but I've never been lucky enough to nab one."
Insect preparation is essential: Coastal and marsh-adjacent campgrounds can have significant insect populations. "BRING BUGSPRAY!!! The mosquitoes 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," warns Megan W. about Wild Duck Adult Campground.
Cell service varies dramatically: Most campgrounds have limited connectivity, with wifi often restricted to registration areas. At Hermit Island, Brandon C. notes there is "No cell service (you may be able to get a little at the office)," adding that he loves "the feeling of 'being in the middle of nowhere with no cell service' it really brings back the good old days of camping."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When booking sites with children, consider proximity to play areas. At Old Orchard Beach Campground, Nancy W. notes, "There are lots of amenities in the campground like a basketball court, Wiffle ball field, horseshoes, badminton, playgrounds, arcade, swimming pools and hot tub."
Look for farmyard experiences: Children often enjoy interactive farm activities at certain campgrounds. "My kids enjoyed visiting with the farm animals and walking along the rocky shore each day," shares Michele S. about Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Campground. Farm settings offer educational opportunities alongside camping.
Beach shuttle services: When camping with children, look for properties with transportation to beaches. "The beach is close but not close enough to walk too. We were in an rv and had to unhook to go anywhere," explains April C. about Old Orchard Beach Campground, highlighting the importance of understanding access options.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites that can complicate RV setup. "Site 18 was not level and we had difficulty leveling our small motorhome," reports Lisa W. about Desert of Maine Campground. Bringing additional leveling blocks can help address this issue.
Size restrictions vary: Larger RVs have limited options at some of the best places to camp near Peaks Island, Maine. Steve K. notes that Sandy Pines Campground has "only a few transient sites that can handle a camper over 30ft." Calling ahead to confirm site dimensions is recommended for larger rigs.
Pool and amenity access: RV campers often choose campgrounds with additional facilities. "We had a great time! The grounds are beautiful, the sites are well spaced and not cramped, and we had no problems with the staff," shares Monica J. from Paradise Park Resort, which includes "a pool and small playground" according to Alycia G.
