Campgrounds in the Pemaquid area of Maine range from rustic wooded sites to waterfront locations with tidal access. The region experiences heavy coastal fog in early summer mornings and temperatures averaging 75°F during peak season. Most campgrounds in this area sit on granite bedrock, creating challenging terrain for tent stakes in some locations.
What to do
Kayaking from waterfront sites: At Sagadahoc Bay Campground, visitors can launch directly into the bay during high tide. "We put our kayaks into the water right at the beach and had a nice float in the bay," shares one camper about Thomas Point Beach. When the tide recedes at Sagadahoc Bay, "you can walk over a mile out towards the lighthouse on Sequin Island," making for unique shoreline exploration opportunities.
Clamming at low tide: The tidal flats expose excellent clamming grounds when the water recedes. "The clams there are the sweetest and most delicious I have ever tasted, not to mention freshest. Clamming license, tools for digging and even pots are available at the office," notes a visitor to Sagadahoc Bay Campground. Permits are required but can be purchased at most campground offices.
Explore nearby botanical gardens: Located near Boothbay Craft Brewery & RV Resort, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens offer unique attractions. "Don't miss the Guardians of the Seeds (trolls) at the Botanical Gardens! Truly a one of a kind campground with amazing restaurant and brewery on site," reports a camper. The gardens are approximately 5 miles from the RV resort and require an admission fee.
What campers like
Private wooded campsites: Greenlaw's RV Park & Campground offers secluded spots in the forest. "This is a small, wooded campground with large private sites. They are working to improve the campground everyday," notes one visitor. Other campers appreciate site U1, which is described as "the last site on the deadend road and very secluded."
Access to local towns: Campers appreciate the proximity to coastal villages. "This campground is in a great location to Camden and nearby towns. We loved taking the ferry to Vinalhaven Island for the day and picking up prepared food at the Market Basket and eating it along the Rockland Harbor waterfront watching the boats come and go," explains a visitor to Camden Hills RV Resort.
Dark skies for stargazing: Clear nights offer exceptional star viewing at several campgrounds. "At night the stars were absolutely amazing!" reports one camper at Sagadahoc Bay Campground. The lack of light pollution in this rural area provides optimal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts, particularly at waterfront sites away from tree cover.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation essential: The marshy coastal environment supports significant mosquito populations. At Wild Duck Adult Campground & RV Park, a camper warns, "They 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." Another notes, "Since it is by the marsh there were a lot of mosquitoes (August)."
Tidal considerations: Water access varies dramatically throughout the day. "The river is tidal and so unless you want to wade through mud there is not access beyond a couple hours around high tide," explains a visitor to Shore Hills Campground. Plan water activities accordingly, as tidal changes can strand watercraft or dramatically change shoreline accessibility.
Reservation systems vary: Many campgrounds maintain traditional booking methods. "Old school in that you have to call to make reservations and they do not accept credit cards," notes a camper at Shore Hills. Some locations use honor systems: "Once your reservation is made reservations are on the honor system that you show up. No prepayment was required," reports a visitor to Greenlaw's RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach proximity: Sherwood Forest Campsite offers convenient beach access. "This campground is also very close to a public beach and a very short drive to Darmascota," notes a camper. The path to Pemaquid beach is "right at the end of the driveway and not much further to the historic fort," making it ideal for families wanting to combine beach time with historical exploration.
Lakeside alternatives: For freshwater options instead of coastal camping, consider inland locations. "Loved our site right on the water and access to the docks for fishing & kayaking! Kids caught many sunfish & had loads of fun!" shares a visitor to Augusta West Kampground. Lakeside sites provide calmer waters for young swimmers and excellent fishing opportunities.
Educational opportunities: The region offers numerous learning experiences for children. "There is great hiking and beautiful views at the nearby Camden Hills State Park," notes a Camden Hills visitor. Many campgrounds are located near lighthouses, marine museums, and historic sites that provide educational value alongside recreational activities.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: At Thomas Point Beach and Campground, "the electric hook up required a 50 ft. extension cord to reach a pole." Another camper confirms: "The electrical hook ups are like 1 box for every 10 camping spots so they r kinda far away so make sure u have an extension cord of some sort."
Level site availability: At RV sites near Pemaquid, Maine, leveling can be challenging. "Luckily our site was level but some are not very level and would have been a problem for us," reports a Camden Hills visitor. At Greenlaw's RV Park, a camper noted their site "was fantastic" but had "a slight bump in it which made hooking and unhooking our travel trailer a little difficult."
Tree clearance concerns: Many campgrounds feature dense forest which may impact larger rigs. A Camden Hills visitor warns: "Lots of tall pine trees provide shade but also make it a little difficult to navigate the roads. We had to go pretty slow to avoid hitting tree branches. Parking under the pines also meant a lot of sap on our roof which was a bear to remove."
