Several RV camping facilities operate seasonally in the Perry, Maine region with oceanfront access as a defining feature. The area experiences cool nights even in summer, with average July temperatures dropping to 55°F after sunset, requiring campers to pack warm sleeping gear regardless of season. Most campgrounds in this coastal area require reservations well in advance for summer months, especially waterfront sites.
What to do
Water activities: Kayaking in the tidal waters surrounding Sunset Point Campground provides access to abundant wildlife viewing. One visitor noted, "There's a boat dock and a short trail along the coast with benches to watch the sunset." Bring your kayak for morning paddling when the water is calmest.
Fishing: Smallmouth bass opportunities exist at Machias Rips Campsite, where the river offers productive angling. "I've caught smallmouth bass, chubs and trout in the river so far! Black and silver Jerk baits work great," recommends one angler. The site is free to access and located directly on the Machias River.
Wildlife viewing: Bald eagles frequent the coastline near RV campgrounds in Perry, Maine. Visitors to Sunset Point RV Park reported, "After a busy morning of hiking or paddling we loved hanging out at our campsite in the afternoon and watching the seals, bald eagles, seabirds, and the tides come and go." Bring binoculars for optimal viewing.
What campers like
Waterfront proximity: The coastal sites at Seaview Campground offer direct ocean access. One camper described, "Our site had an unobstructed view of the bay, right under a nice size pine tree. The staff was amazing, even the gentlemen contracted for landscaping was super nice." Oceanfront sites book earliest in the season.
Clean facilities: Campground bathrooms in the Perry area receive consistent praise. A Cottonwood Camping visitor mentioned, "Outstanding bath facilities with unlimited hot water, (free too!)." This helps offset the limited shower facilities at other parks in the region.
Lobster cooking amenities: Several RV campgrounds near Perry provide lobster cooking equipment. "The campground has free use of lobster pots, burners, and propane tanks if you want to cook your own lobster and there is a seafood place right down the street that sells live lobster," noted one reviewer about local facilities. Fresh lobster typically costs $10-15 per pound in season.
What you should know
Site spacing concerns: Many RV campgrounds in the Perry region have tight site spacing. "Sites are very close together with no physical separation between them in typical RV park fashion," mentioned a visitor to Sunset Point RV Park. Select corner or end sites for more privacy when available.
Tidal considerations: The extreme tidal range affects water activities. "Beware that the tidal range is around 20 feet so make sure you paddle around high tide or you will have to cross a mucky, seaweed covered, rocky clam flat to get back to shore," advised one kayaker. Check tide charts before planning water activities.
Wind exposure: Coastal RV campgrounds in Perry experience strong winds. "Since you are right on the ocean, it can get quite windy so be sure not to leave your awning out if you go away," warned a reviewer. Secure loose items and consider portable windbreaks for tent camping.
Tips for camping with families
Insect preparedness: Black flies and mosquitoes can be intense near Perry, Maine. "Screen rooms are a good idea because the black flies and mosquitoes in Maine can be quite pesky in the spring and summer," advised a camper. Bring head nets in addition to repellent for children.
Local attractions: Cottonwood Camping & RV Park offers unique camping experiences for families. As one visitor described, "This campground is absolutely adorable. RV, tent, Treehouse camping to camping out in a Teepee! I surprised my husband with the Teepee- we were not disappointed!" The teepee includes a comfortable queen bed and costs around $89 per night.
Free camping options: For budget-conscious families, free sites exist at Machias Rips Campsite. "There are 2 RV sites, 3 tent sites and a lean-to shelter, all situated right on the bank of the river," noted a camper. The lean-to offers protection during unpredictable weather but has "quite the slope to it."
Tips from RVers
Alternative accommodations: When RV sites are full, South Bay on Rocky Lake provides options. "Picked this location because it was close to several locations we could take day trips to the coast. Visited Bar Harbor, Eastport and several places in between," shared one visitor. The free sites lack hookups but provide boat launch access.
Site selection strategy: At RV campgrounds near Perry, Maine, waterfront sites offer dramatically better views. "The tent sites are great — right on the water's edge — and much more spacious and private than the hookup sites," explained one reviewer. Request sites 12A, 12B, 12, or 16 for optimal water views when making reservations.
Parking considerations: Many Perry area campgrounds have limited parking at prime sites. "After turning off the highway you take a dirt road for about a mile until you see a sign for the campsites. My sedan easily made it down the road," noted a visitor to South Bay. Most remote sites accommodate vehicles up to 20 feet in length.
