The Richmond region offers diverse camping experiences on lakes, rivers, and wooded areas within central Maine's varied landscape. Seasonal patterns affect water levels, with tidal rivers fluctuating daily and lake levels changing throughout the year. Most camping areas near Richmond can accommodate everything from tents to large RVs with varying hookup options and site layouts.
What to do
Disc golf at family campgrounds: Jellystone Park™ Androscoggin Lake provides disc golf among its numerous recreational offerings. "Amazing campground. Has a lot of stuff for kids including playground, pool, water slides, canoeing, kayaking, mini golf and disc golf. Great sites and plenty of them," notes Peter F.
Kayaking in tidal waters: The waterways around Thomas Point Beach and Campground allow paddlers to experience changing landscapes. One visitor explains, "We put our kayaks into the water right at the beach and had a nice float in the bay. The campground is close to Topsham and Brunswick."
Farm exploration with animals: Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Campground combines camping with agricultural experiences. Jessica M. describes, "Kids really enjoy running in field and that there is a working farm within the camp ground," while another camper adds, "My kids enjoyed visiting with the farm animals and walking along the rocky shore each day."
What campers like
Access to saltwater areas: Many campers appreciate Chewonki Campground's coastal setting. One reviewer describes it as "Situated on a river/inlet" while another mentions, "Kayaking, salt water pool and scenic walking trails blends in with the variety of singing birds under several tall pine trees."
Christian-based camping atmosphere: Visitors seeking a faith-focused environment enjoy the structured programs at More to Life Campground. A guest reports, "Christian based, Nice, clean, family friendly campground. Plenty to do with the family including a beach, playground, water activities, and crafts! Fun activities every week and a nice game room."
Lobster delivered to campsites: Fresh seafood is available right at camping locations. "Lobsters for sale straight out of the tank cooked and delivered to your site every day. Don't forget to add corn and potatoes," shares an Erin O. about Meadowbrook Camping.
What you should know
Site drainage issues during rain: Heavy rainfall can affect camping conditions in the region. At Meadowbrook Camping, a guest reported "We had brown water and were extremely thankful for our multiple water filters" while noting electrical issues as well.
Seasonal operations: Most camping sites near Richmond, Maine operate between May and mid-October. Duck Puddle Campground runs "from May 1 to Columbus Day" with many campgrounds following similar schedules to avoid the harsh winter months.
Tidal considerations for water activities: Coastal and river camping requires attention to tides. A visitor at Shore Hills Campground observed, "The river is tidal and so unless you want to wade threw mud there is not access beyond a couple hours around high tide."
Tips for camping with families
Look for theme weekends: Family-oriented campgrounds often schedule special events. "Duck Puddle Campground was celebrating 'Christmas in July' and so a lot of the campers had put up lights and decorated. They had a band play on Sat night and large bonfire," notes rachel S.
Consider waterfront safety: When choosing camping sites near Richmond with water access, evaluate swimming conditions. A Thomas Point Beach reviewer warns that "beach not safe to swim in" while some lake campgrounds offer safer swimming for children.
Expect shared facilities: Most campgrounds have community bathrooms and showers. At Chewonki, a camper noted, "Clean bathroom, although chilly in the 3rd week in May," highlighting the early season temperature variations in facilities.
Tips from RVers
Bring extension cords: Electrical hookups may require additional equipment. A Thomas Point camper advises, "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 and there's no water or sewer hook ups so fill ur water tank before parking."
Check site levelness: The terrain at many camping sites near Richmond creates challenges for RV setup. At Meadowbrook Camping, a 45-foot RV owner reported, "We were assigned a pull thru that had such a steep incline we determined it best to actually back into the site so we didn't bottom out trying to get up the hill."
Monitor electrical service quality: Voltage issues can affect RV systems. A Meadowbrook camper warned, "We paid for a 30 amp service, but had low voltage the entirety of our stay. They had several campsites on the same breaker, something we have never seen at any campground in our 3 years of travel."
