Tent campsites near Sanford, Maine provide access to both coastal attractions and inland forests. The region sits at the northern edge of the Atlantic Coastal Plain with elevations ranging from near sea level to approximately 1,000 feet in surrounding hills. Summer temperatures typically reach 70-85°F during camping season, with cooler evenings that can drop into the 50s.
What to do
Beach access and water activities: At Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach, campers can take advantage of seasonal shuttle service to Old Orchard Beach. "The shuttle to the beach is convenient," notes a camper. The campground's proximity to water activities extends beyond ocean access, as one visitor points out: "If you like to paddle, head to the Saco River Marsh. Here you can put in your own boats or rent some and paddle through beautiful marsh – just watch the tides."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers several nature preserves. "A great place to explore is Rachael Carson National Wildlife Refuge. There is a small welcome center and trails that wind through the marsh with some beautiful views (and dog-friendly)," shares one visitor at Sun Outdoors Saco.
Exploring nearby towns: The coastal Maine region contains several historic towns within 30 minutes of Sanford. One camper at Swans Falls Campground mentions: "The campground is in a nice, open pine forest and there is a beautiful walking trail by the Saco River." For those staying at tent sites near Sanford, day trips to surrounding communities provide shopping and dining options.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many tent camping locations prioritize cleanliness. A visitor at Salmon Falls River RV Resort states: "If you have young kids this place is so fun! Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!!" Though primarily an RV resort, their tent sites provide access to these same amenities.
Wooded settings: Tent campers appreciate natural surroundings and shade. According to one camper at Huttopia Southern Maine: "Grounds are manicured and aimed to be family friendly." This 107-site campground in Sanford offers walk-in tent sites with varying degrees of privacy.
On-site dining options: Some campgrounds near Sanford feature food service. A Sun Outdoors Saco visitor explains: "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 and loved eating them campfire side."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular tent sites fill quickly during peak season. At Squam Lakes Association, "The sites are pricey and fill up quickly when reservations open for the year on Feb 15, but the money supports the conservation of the area via the Squam Lakes Association."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal conditions may limit campfires. A recent visitor noted: "The camping area is a field in the back with fairly level ground and lots of space, and is a very short walk from the designated parking area."
Water access: Not all primitive sites provide potable water. One camper explains: "There is a composting toilet in each camping area, but no picnic table or drinking water. Come prepared with your own water...or a filter."
Site selection: At Sun Outdoors Saco, a visitor advises: "Tent sites 96, P5, P4, P3, P2 and P1 were also among the best spots, offering full shade and privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Campgrounds with swimming options are popular with families. At Salmon Falls River Resort, "If you have young kids this place is so fun! Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!! My niece had so much fun!"
Structured activities: Some campgrounds offer organized events. "Amenities include a heated pool, hot tub (adults only), basketball, volleyball, playground, and various activities like s'mores, crafts, ice cream socials and more. This campground is very kid-friendly."
Cabin options: For families new to camping, Paugus Brook Farm provides an intermediate option. Though primarily offering tent sites, their location "is a great place to either explore the immediate area (Mount Chocorua and Chocorua Lake) or head further north to Conway and North Conway)."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: While this guide focuses on tent sites, RVers note some campgrounds accommodate both. "Campsites are level and site is fairly easy to maneuver with bigger rigs. Have great activities daily for the kids a nice store onsite."
Seasonal staffing: Summer months may bring staffing challenges. As one RVer mentions: "Sites are close together and they are short staffed but other than that a great place!"
Transition periods: Some campgrounds change management or branding. "If I have one issue it would be that it went to a KOA which isn't bad but the transition year seemed a bit wanky and hopefully this year will be better as my kids love it there and we'll continue to go back often."
