Scarborough, Maine sits along the eastern coast where protected marshland meets the Atlantic Ocean. Most RV campgrounds remain open May through October, with autumn bringing vibrant foliage to the area. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F, creating favorable camping conditions near this coastal town that serves as a convenient base for exploring southern Maine's attractions.
What to do
Beach access options: Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach provides transportation to the shore. "There is a trolley to the beach which is convenient. During the shoulder season dogs are allowed on the beach but not the summer," notes Nancy W. The campground is just four miles from Old Orchard Beach.
Explore wildlife areas: The Scarborough Marsh provides habitat for coastal birds and marine life. "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 a reviewer about nearby attractions.
Paddling adventures: Canoe or kayak through waterways adjacent to campgrounds. "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," mentions Nancy W. Some campgrounds offer equipment rentals for water activities.
Trail access: Wild Duck Adult Campground & RV Park connects to regional trails. "It is within a mile of the Eastern Trail, a multi use gravel path which is a better place to walk, bike, or run," writes Heather C. The campground sits near the 1.3-mile section of this trail network.
What campers like
Adult-focused environments: Wild Duck Adult Campground caters exclusively to older campers. "This is a beautiful campground that caters to adults only. It feels very secluded but it's close to everything," says Kelli T. The 21+ policy creates a quieter atmosphere than family-oriented options.
Clean facilities: Consistent maintenance earns positive reviews across Scarborough area campgrounds. "Great campground. Sites are not too close, clean bathrooms, friendly service. Would definitely return!" shares Matt R. about his experience at Sun Outdoors Saco.
Water recreation: Pools and water attractions enhance summer stays. At Cole's Mine RV Resort, "Super fun pool and a small campground so not many people crowding the pool. Many nice fishing spots and lots of play areas and outdoor recreation," reports Samantha N. The themed pool area includes a water slide.
Site selection: Wooded sites provide shade and privacy in some campgrounds. "My sister and I lucked out with our cabin and the cul-de-sac it was in. It overlooked the woods and was a bit more secluded than many of the other sites," notes Rachel P. Specific site numbers often receive recommendations in reviews.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks run near some campgrounds, creating periodic disturbances. "The campground map is missing 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'," warns Bryan at Wild Acres Sun RV Resort.
Insect preparation: Marshland proximity means mosquitoes are common. "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," cautions Megan W. about Wild Duck Adult Campground.
Beach traffic: Summer crowds impact camping experiences and transportation. "Fall and summer seasons see higher occupancy rates across RV parks in the area," with one visitor noting the trolley service helps avoid "parking challenges" during peak season.
Size variations: Sites at some campgrounds lack sufficient space. "The sites that face the marsh are the best sites - they have some grass and lovely views. We were in site 5, which faces the woods and was dirt. It had a slight bump in it which made hooking and unhooking our travel trailer a little difficult," explains Heather C.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Sea-Vu West Premier RV Resort offers youth-focused amenities. "If you have children, there's a nice play area with really nice playground equipment," notes Susan J. The paved roads also make bike riding safer for children.
Evening entertainment: Many campgrounds schedule regular programming. "Kid activities were done regularly. Pizza and breakfast is very good if you do lunch want to cook. Outdoor movies were fun," shares Jill P. about her family's experience at a local campground.
Shoulder season visits: Lower rates and fewer crowds make spring and fall attractive. "We tent camped at Saco/Old Orchard Beach KOA. The staff was very friendly and when I called to book the site, they assisted in helping us pick out the nicest campsite," mentions Ben P., who visited outside peak summer months.
Water park options: Additional attractions complement beach activities. "If you have kids and like water parks, Funtown Splashtown USA is a popular place especially on warm days and just down the street," according to Nancy W., highlighting offsite recreation beyond campground amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Terrain varies across Scarborough area campgrounds. "Our site was level with no potholes and the roads leading to our site were easy to navigate in our 45' motorhome," reported one camper about Wagon Wheel Sun RV Resorts.
Campground layout awareness: Thousand Trails Moody Beach has an unusual configuration. "The campground layout is quite unusual, with campers parked lengthwise along the road. This means that you share the space where you sit outside with the camper behind you, resulting in very little privacy," explains Arno W. This affects how RVs utilize outdoor spaces.
Internet connectivity challenges: Reception varies significantly between campgrounds. "WiFi is not good. Even when they let us upgrade to the premium," notes April C. about one location, while another reviewer mentioned, "Cell coverage varies by carrier, with Verizon generally providing reliable service throughout the region."
Seasonal site access: Many RV campgrounds near Scarborough close during winter months. "The 30 amp sites are very close together," warns Nate H., suggesting larger rigs should request specific site information before booking at area campgrounds that remain open into October.
