Peaks Island RV campgrounds operate primarily from spring through mid-October, typically closing during Maine's winter season. The area has several seasonal options within 20-25 miles of Portland. Sites are generally gravel or grass with varying levels of privacy between them. Most campgrounds require advance reservations during summer and early fall, with many filling completely during holiday weekends and peak leaf season.
What to do
Explore Scarborough Marsh: Wild Duck Adult Campground sits adjacent to the protected wetland area, allowing for wildlife observation opportunities. "During sunrise and sunset, the marshes reflect the sun and give the perfect picture for relaxation," notes a camper at Wild Duck Adult Campground. The Eastern Trail is about a mile away, offering multi-use paths for walking and cycling.
Visit nearby beaches: RV parks provide various beach access options. "The beach is a short 15-minute walk," from Thousand Trails Moody Beach, according to a recent visitor. Several campgrounds offer trolley service directly to the beaches during summer months, eliminating parking concerns.
Use shuttle services: Many campgrounds provide beach transportation. "Great location trolley will pick you up from the campground and take you to Old Orchard Beach," explains a visitor at Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach. This reduces parking issues during peak summer periods when beach lots fill quickly.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campground bathroom cleanliness varies widely across the region. "The bathrooms were very clean," notes a visitor at Wild Acres Sun RV Resort. Bathroom availability is limited at some locations, with Shamrock Campground offering toilet facilities but no shower options.
Pool access: Most parks feature swimming pools as alternatives to beach days. "The pool is heated and has an amazing water slide and themed," reports a guest at Cole's Mine RV Resort. Several campgrounds maintain adults-only hot tubs separate from family pool areas.
Family activities: Organized events supplement beach visits. "Kid activities were done regularly. Pizza and breakfast is very good if you do lunch want to cook. Outdoor movies were fun," reports a camper about Sun Outdoors. Some parks charge additional fees ($1-10) for certain activities.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Expect considerable differences in site density between parks. "Sites are pretty close together" is a common observation at Sea-Vu West Premier RV Resort, though they note "you have plenty of space to just sit on your other side of your RV and use that for shade."
Seasonal population: Many parks have permanent or seasonal residents. "Nice management but too many transient sites becoming seasonal sites in the past few years," reports a Wagon Wheel visitor. This affects availability for short-term stays, especially during peak periods.
Noise considerations: Train tracks run near several campgrounds. "The trains all blow there horn and you will hear it if your at one of the site 'by the ocean'," warns a Wild Acres visitor. Site selection can significantly impact sleep quality, especially at parks advertising oceanfront locations.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with kid amenities: Some parks offer extensive children's activities. "There is a nice play area with really nice playground equipment," notes a visitor at Sea-Vu West. This park also features paved roads that are "so kids can ride their bikes with ease."
Consider quieter timing: Weekdays typically see lower occupancy and noise levels. "Sun night was way quieter than Fri and Sat night," reports a guest at Wild Acres, who described weekend atmosphere as "large groups, loud music and managed chaos."
Book specific site types: Family camping experience varies based on site location within parks. "We were in the A70s with friends. The area had a lot more space than other areas, the sites were level and groomed with a rocky parking area," notes a visitor at Wagon Wheel Sun RV Resorts.
Tips from RVers
Site configuration awareness: RV sites at some parks have unusual layouts. "The 30 amp sites are very close together. The campground layout is quite unusual, with campers parked lengthwise along the road," explains a Thousand Trails Moody Beach visitor.
Consider membership options: Discounted stays may be available through camping networks. "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," advises a Moody Beach camper.
Internet access varies: WiFi reliability differs greatly between parks and within individual campgrounds. "The WiFi is awful away from the registration office," notes a camper at Thousand Trails, adding "those camping on the outskirts seemed able to utilize their Starlink."
