Richmond, Maine campgrounds serve a diverse range of camping styles, from lake access sites to oceanfront options. The region's pine forests provide natural shade with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak season. Most campgrounds operate from mid-May through mid-October, with many closing after Indigenous Peoples weekend when fall foliage reaches its peak.
What to do
Kayaking at Scarborough Marsh: Just over an hour south of Richmond, Wild Duck Adult Campground provides access to water recreation. "We stayed for 3 nights in late July. This adult only campground is peaceful and quiet, with the sounds of birds and the trees being the main thing you hear - it is quite relaxing," shares Heather C. The campground is "within a mile of the Audubon center office, where you can either put in your own kayak/canoe or rent one."
Disc golf and water activities: Jellystone Park™ Androscoggin Lake offers multiple recreation options close to Richmond. "Amazing campground. Has a lot of stuff for kids including playground, pool, water slides, canoeing, kayaking, mini golf and disc golf," notes Peter F. The campground provides a good balance of water and land activities within a single location.
Beach access and public transportation: During summer months, beach trips become easier with shuttle services. "In the summer there is a shuttle that takes you to the beach which is convenient," explains Nancy W. in her review. Another camper adds: "Great location trolley will pick you up from the campground and take you to Old Orchard Beach. Very friendly staff."
What campers like
Tidal water views: Waterfront sites remain popular throughout the region. At Shore Hills Campground, Rachel S. found that "sites were fairly close to each other but we had a site at the end that had wonderful views of the river and we could angle our camper so we had privacy. The river is tidal and so unless you want to wade threw mud there is not access beyond a couple hours around high tide."
Private wooded sites: Shore Hills Campground & RV Park offers varied site options. "The great thing about this campground is that there is a such a large selection of sites that you pretty much can get what you want," according to a camper. "They also have some sites tucked in the woods that are super wide with huge patios and lots of privacy between you and your neighbor."
Fresh local food: Campgrounds with on-site food options earn positive reviews. "One of the nice features was the on-site restaurant which claims to be famous for their 'blueberry pancakes' and also offers Belgian waffles, pizza, hamburgers, and hot dogs. I admit the pancakes were delicious," shares Nancy W. Another visitor to a different rv park reported that "the pizza received very good reviews."
What you should know
Seasonal pricing variations: During peak summer season (July-August), expect higher rates. At The Moorings Oceanfront RV Resort, "the price which was $94/night for a FHU (50 amp) pull-thru on the hill in the front of the park without much in the way of a water view. Premier oceanfront sites are $110/night during high season."
Variable amenities between parks: Internet access varies widely between rv parks near Richmond, Maine. One camper noted, "Wifi was a service you had to pay for which is almost unheard of in todays campgrounds." Another mentioned "The wifi was a joke and we got frustrated and gave up."
Insect preparation essential: Marshland areas require proper planning. "BRING BUGSPRAY!!! My husband and I stayed here in our popup for two nights in June 2018. 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."
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Choose campgrounds with structured programs for different age groups. "Kid activities were done regularly. Pizza and breakfast is very good if you do lunch want to cook. Outdoor movies were fun," reports Jill P. Planned activities help keep children engaged throughout longer stays.
Site selection strategy: Thomas Point Beach and Campground offers diverse camping experiences. "Great campground for someone who enjoys a more social experience, and access to many activities! There was plenty of walking to do, a playground, and lots of marsh area to explore with snails and horseshoe crabs around," shares Anna W.
Campground scheduling considerations: Some campgrounds host large events that change the atmosphere. "This was a family campground years ago and used to be safe but was inherited by young people. Now it hosts loud Grateful dead and other big parties and music festivals all summer," warns one reviewer. Check event calendars before booking during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Augusta West Kampground offers full hookup RV sites with 50-amp service, but some other campgrounds have unique electrical setups. "The sites were only average, no water hook ups, and the electric hook up required a 50 ft. extension cord to reach a pole," reports one RVer. Pack additional electrical cords when traveling in this region.
Brewpub camping option: Boothbay Craft Brewery & RV Resort combines camping with craft beverages. "Owners are on site and very friendly. Brewery has fantastic beer and food," shares Robert D. Another camper adds, "My wife and I just spend an overnight here. The brewery is really cool, and the wood fired pizza is some of my favorite."
Road and site considerations: Tree branches can pose challenges at some campgrounds. "The roads are gravel with potholes and campsites are grassy or dirt depending on if you are under a tree or a previous campers patio mat killed the grass. 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."
