Campers seeking pet-friendly accommodations near Portland, Maine will find options ranging from basic tent sites to full-service RV resorts within 30 minutes of the city. The coastal location creates a unique camping environment with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F during the day and dropping to 55-65°F at night, often with coastal fog in early mornings. Most campgrounds in this area operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with peak season extending from late June through Labor Day weekend.
What to do
Kayaking on tidal waterways: At Sandy Pines Campground, the salt marsh backdrop creates excellent paddling opportunities. "The back end of the campground is a salt marsh, campers can put in canoes and kayaks right from the campground," notes Steve K. Nearby, "the kayak/paddle board, canoe launch is great because the river is impounded so you never have to worry about the tide going out while you are paddling," according to Nancy W.
Beach access with shuttle service: Several campgrounds provide transportation to nearby beaches, saving you parking hassles and fees. "Free shuttle to transport you back and forth to ocean," highlights Amy R. about Bayley's Camping Resort. The shuttle operates hourly during summer months and eliminates the need to search for beach parking.
Trail exploration: The region offers interconnected trail systems for hiking and mountain biking. "Lots and LOTS of trails surrounding the campground. Great for biking and trail running," explains Mackenzie Z. about Bradbury Mountain State Park Campground. For extended rides, "just down the road is a public biking/hiking trail and goes through the Scarborough Marsh," adds Nancy W.
What campers like
Farm-based camping experiences: Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Campground combines farming with camping. "We stayed here this summer and was one of our favorites ever! This campground is located on an organic dairy farm. There is a farm cafe on site with local food," shares Tonya M. Other campers appreciate the educational aspect: "My son loved the working farm. Close hiking trails," notes Mike C.
Clean, modern facilities: Campgrounds in the region have invested in quality bathhouses and amenities. "The Desert of Maine Campground changed ownership in the winter of 2018-19. All of the reviews of this campground on The Dyrt are from before a complete renovation by the new owners," explains Doug H. from Desert of Maine Campground. Visitors are impressed with the improvements: "The restrooms and showers were some of the nicest I have EVER seen at a campground (public or private)," according to Tucker B.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The coastal setting provides habitat for diverse bird species. "We stayed on waters edge in a band of trees, breezes, birds, and fish jumping," shares Darin S. Another camper adds: "This campground is set on a working organic farm and non-profit organization. The farm is now open to the public, free of charge every day and is committed to continuing and improving upon the long tradition of sustainable agriculture, recreation and education."
What you should know
Seasonal mosquito challenges: Low-lying areas experience significant mosquito activity, especially near marshes. "The only negative of this place was the mosquitoes. 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," warns Megan W. about Wild Duck Adult Campground.
Site privacy variations: Campground layouts vary widely in this region. "Sites were nice. campground staff is good. clean shower building and dishwashing area," notes angie S. Other campers mention: "Most sites are close together, but sites 6, 12, and 16 are private with short, walk-in trails," according to Alyson D.
Varying pet policies: While most campgrounds allow pets, specific rules differ. Some limit pets to certain areas or charge additional fees. "They have a small, but very well-kept dog park," notes Shawn B. Other campgrounds charge per animal: "The dog fee was steep 25/pup but the complex is very well put together, maintained, and staffed," explains Patty V.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming options beyond the ocean. "This campground was really beautiful. Sites were not very private, but the views and scenery are spectacular. My kids enjoyed visiting with the farm animals and walking along the rocky shore each day," shares Michele S. Another parent adds: "Great family fun park. This park would be described as a local family getaway park, camping, swimming or just sitting by the ocean."
Playground availability: Several campgrounds have invested in play structures. "The campground has a kids pool and a pool for the adults only w/bar. A pond for fishing, there are kayaks etc... Shower throughout and I might add very clean," shares Christopher S. about Winslow Park And Campground. Another family notes: "We took a mid-September vacation and love how nice it is with fellow campers spread out. The pool is heated and very inviting. There is a playground."
Educational opportunities: Farm-based campgrounds offer learning experiences for children. "My kids really enjoyed the farm experience. Plenty to do between biking, kayaking, farm experience and visiting downtown Freeport close by." Another camper explains: "The working farm is open to visit and walk around. Pet the baby cows and see the pigs and goats. they have a ton of activities going on through the summer."
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: RVers should research specific site dimensions before booking. "Some sites are out in open, some have a little more privacy. Would have given 5 stars if there was a more privacy between sites," advises Kelly A. Another camper shares: "Our gravel site was perfectly level with no potholes and the roads leading to our site were easy to navigate in our 45' motorhome."
Hookup considerations: Water and electric availability varies by campground and site type. "The only reason I give if 4 instead of five stars is that there are only a few transient sites that can handle a camper over 30ft," explains Steve K. Other RVers note: "Pull-thru and back in RV sites are very roomy and well laid out," according to a review of Old Orchard Beach Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Late spring and early fall offer better availability for larger RVs. "We have camped here in early June for the past 2 years. The campground is small and in June it is relatively quiet," explains Heather J. Most RV campers report the best experience in shoulder seasons when campgrounds are less crowded but amenities remain open.
