Shapleigh sits in the southwestern region of Maine, surrounded by dense forests and a network of interconnected lakes. The area experiences warm, humid summers with typical temperatures between 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most glamping sites near Shapleigh are positioned to take advantage of water access, with several spots offering private paths to ponds or streams where guests can launch kayaks or canoes directly from their accommodations.
What to do
Water activities at lakes and ponds: Bunganut Lake Camping Area offers lake access ideal for swimming and paddling. According to one camper, "The lake is beautiful, a hidden gem" with options to rent canoes and kayaks or bring your own.
Local hiking trails: The Sandy Pines Campground location provides access to nearby nature preserves. A visitor notes, "For those so inclined, there is great mountain biking either through the Tyler Preserve down to Cape Porpoise or North through the Emmitt Smith Preserve."
Mountain biking on conservation lands: Multiple trail systems connect campgrounds to natural areas. One reviewer at Sandy Pines mentioned, "Ride 10 minutes in the opposite direction and you arrive at Goose Rocks Beach, the best shoreline beach on southern Maine."
Fishing in stocked ponds: Many local campgrounds maintain fishing access points. At Bunganut Lake Camping Area, the fishing opportunities attract families, with one camper sharing that "our sites were on the hill down to the beach area" with direct water access.
What campers like
Quiet camping atmosphere: Old Orchard Beach Campground provides a peaceful environment despite its popularity. A reviewer states, "Our gravel site was perfectly level with no potholes and the roads leading to our site were easy to navigate in our 45' motorhome."
Proximity to beaches: Many glamping options near Shapleigh offer beach access within short driving distances. According to a camper, "The campground is just one mile from Old Orchard Beach and close to Route 1 which is the main corridor leading up and down the Maine coast."
Family-friendly facilities: Beaver Dam Campground maintains amenities specifically for families. One camper observed, "The pond is tranquil and our site was right on the pond," providing a calm environment for children to swim safely.
Clean, modern facilities: Sites often feature updated amenities. A visitor to Beaver Dam noted, "Bathrooms are modern and spotless. Owners on site are wonderful."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: All glamping sites require advance bookings, especially during peak season from June through August. At Wild Duck Adult Campground & RV Park, which caters to adults only, a visitor advised, "Arrive before 7 pm to avoid any issues" with check-in.
Seasonal considerations: Most sites operate from May through October. According to a Wild Duck camper, "Since it is by the marsh there were a lot of mosquitoes (August)," so bug spray is essential during summer months.
Insect protection: Sites near water typically have more mosquitoes. A visitor warned, "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."
Site selection strategies: Some campgrounds have significant differences between sites. A camper at Wild Duck Adult Campground noted, "The sites that face the marsh are the best sites - they have some grass and lovely views," highlighting the importance of requesting specific locations when booking.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Salmon Falls/Lebanon KOA, a visitor mentioned, "This Campground is family friendly and has a lot to offer. Our camping group consisted of children from the ages of 8-17 yrs old. No one was bored."
Waterslides and swimming areas: Water features are particularly popular with families. According to one reviewer, "Very big campground with a nice water park for kids" at Salmon Falls/Lebanon KOA.
Library and game centers: Some sites offer indoor activities for rainy days. A camper at Bunganut Lake described, "My daughters first stop was the adorable library! Books, games and movies galore!"
Noise considerations: Campground atmosphere varies widely. One visitor noted, "Small and quaint. This was such an adorable perfect campsite. Lots of seasonal campers who are all super friendly and helpful. Made some friends in day one."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Glamping sites with RV access vary in surface quality. At Old Orchard Beach Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Pull-thru and back in RV sites are very roomy and well laid out."
Utility hookup availability: Connection types vary between campgrounds. A camper at Old Orchard Beach explained, "We were able to pick up wifi at our site because we were close to a tower. Our Verizon phone and hotspot worked great as did the parks cable television."
Transport planning: Some locations require unhooking tow vehicles. A visitor advised, "We were in an rv and had to unhook to go anywhere. WiFi worked great here."
Road access considerations: Entrance visibility can be challenging at certain sites. A visitor to Beaver Dam Campground noted, "Driveway is hard to see and difficult to get in and out of. Owners were responsive."
