Scarborough, Maine sits at a transitional point where the largest salt marsh in Maine meets the Atlantic coastline. The area's coastal elevation averages just 15 feet above sea level, allowing for extensive tidal marshlands that provide natural scenery for campers. Seasonal temperatures range from summer highs around 80°F to fall lows in the 40s, with morning fog common during peak camping months.
What to do
Kayaking through marshlands: Launch directly from Wild Duck Adult Campground which sits near Scarborough Marsh. "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," notes Heather C. The campground is about 1.3 miles from the Eastern Trail, a multi-use gravel path ideal for hiking.
Farm visits and animal interactions: Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Campground combines camping with a working organic farm experience. "A beautiful place with a farm, campground and state park all together! The working farm is open to visit and walk around. Pet the baby cows and see the pigs and goats," shares Tiffany N. The farm hosts educational activities throughout summer, with many free to campers.
Beach excursions: Several campgrounds offer beach shuttles, eliminating parking hassles. "There is a trolly that will take you to the city for $2, but if you have a bicycle it is a quick 15-minute ride to the beach," explains Shawn B. from Old Orchard Beach Campground. Beaches are typically less crowded before 10am and after 4pm during summer months.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Sandy Pines Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. "This campground is immaculate. Everyone we encountered from campers to staff were super friendly," reports Joe R. The bathrooms are single-user facilities, some with showers, and regularly cleaned throughout the day.
Water recreation options: Multiple water activities beyond standard beach visits appeal to campers. "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," explains Nancy W. about Bayley's Camping Resort. Many locations rent equipment directly on-site with hourly rates between $15-25.
Adult-only sections: For those seeking quieter environments, dedicated adult areas provide relief from family-centered activities. "This section is also the closest to the dog park. Our campsite was level with a grassy patio, picnic table, fire pit, 50A FHU and cable," notes Nancy about Bayley's specialized adult section with separate pool, hot tubs, and amenities.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Mosquitoes present challenges, especially in marsh-adjacent locations. "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. from Wild Duck Adult Campground. May through mid-July typically sees the heaviest mosquito activity.
Site privacy variations: Tent sites at some luxury glamping locations have limited privacy. "The tent sites we were at were all next to each other, again, with zero trees for shade cover and zero trees for privacy," reports Tim S. about his Sandy Pines experience. When booking, specifically request wooded sites when available.
Noise levels: Train tracks run near some oceanfront campgrounds, creating unexpected noise. "The train tracks that are between the campground and the ocean. The trains all blow there horn and you will hear it if your at one of the site 'by the ocean'," advises Bryan about Wild Acres Sun RV Resort. Sites farther from tracks experience significantly less noise.
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Old Orchard Beach Campground provides extensive structured recreation. "There are lots of amenities in the campground like a basketball court, Wiffle ball field, horseshoes, badminton, playgrounds, arcade, swimming pools and hot tub, group bonfire, and dog park," explains Nancy W. Most organized activities run between 10am-4pm daily during summer.
Beach transportation options: Free shuttles simplify beach visits with children. "Free shuttle to OOB," mentions Jeannine D. about Bayley's Camping Resort. These shuttles typically run hourly during peak season, with final returns around 8pm.
Family-friendly site selection: Request locations away from common areas for earlier bedtimes. "We like to stay in the 'south section' which tends to have less kids because it is farther away from the 'action,'" suggests Nancy W., noting that sites near pools and activity centers remain noisier later into evening.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Look for recently renovated areas when booking. "Our gravel site was perfectly level with no potholes and the roads leading to our site were easy to navigate in our 45' motorhome," shares Nancy W. about Old Orchard Beach Campground. Older sections may require additional leveling equipment.
Internet connectivity: WiFi quality varies significantly between campgrounds and specific sites. "We paid extra for what was supposed to be fast, streamable wifi, but at times that didn't work at all or was very slow," reports Tina from Sun Outdoors Old Orchard Beach Downtown. Sites near repeaters generally provide better connection, with morning hours offering fastest speeds.
Hookup quality: Full hookup sites command premium rates during summer months. "You definitely are paying for all the amenities and activities. Nightly rates in peak season are outrageous but you can find much cheaper rates if you stay in the shoulder season or go with 30 amp electric and no sewer," advises Nancy W. Early May and late September offer similar amenities at 30-40% lower rates.
