RV parks near Shapleigh offer a mix of wooded sites and open camping areas within driving distance of southern Maine's coastal attractions. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically closing by mid-October when temperatures begin dropping into the 40s at night. The inland locations provide a quieter alternative to the crowded oceanfront resorts while still maintaining reasonable access to beaches.
What to do
Beach access with transportation options: At Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach, campers can utilize the shuttle service to Old Orchard Beach during summer months. "In the summer there is a shuttle that takes you to the beach which is convenient. During the shoulder season dogs are allowed on the beach but not the summer," notes Nancy W.
Kayaking and paddling opportunities: The marshlands near Scarborough provide excellent water access for paddlers staying at Wild Duck Adult Campground. "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," advises Nancy W. Kevin W. adds, "This campground is about a mile from the Eastern Trail through the Scarborough Marsh."
Nature exploration: Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge offers trails through coastal marshes. "A great place to explore is Rachel 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 Nancy W. who stayed at Sun Outdoors Saco.
What campers like
Pool amenities: Many RV parks near Shapleigh feature heated pools that extend the swimming season. At Cole's Mine RV Resort in Lebanon, "the pool is heated and has an amazing water slide and themed. We had a blast and plan on visiting again next year!!" reports Andrew G.
Campground entertainment: Scheduled activities are common at larger resorts. Wild Acres Sun RV Resort hosts regular events: "Beautiful campground with all of the amenities, pool, hot tub, mini golf, adults only area, group fire ring and more. We love going in the fall to enjoy the leaves and sit in the hot tubs," describes Claire T.
Quiet off-season options: Campgrounds are significantly less crowded after Labor Day. "We went in the fall, the foliage is beautiful on the 'wooded' sites. There are new sites with gravel and no trees as well, we had our choice," notes Kasey M. who stayed at Thousand Trails Moody Beach.
What you should know
Site layouts vary significantly: Some campgrounds arrange sites in unconventional patterns. "The 30 amp sites are very close together. 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. about Thousand Trails Moody Beach.
Train noise at beachfront locations: Rail lines run between some campgrounds and the ocean. Bryan from Wild Acres Sun RV Resort notes, "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'."
Seasonal operations affect amenities: Most facilities operate from spring through fall only. "Lounge closed for Covid, pool closed for season. Events and activities are run by management," observed Kasey M. during an October visit to Thousand Trails Moody Beach.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated children's areas: Some campgrounds offer specialized facilities for different age groups. Samantha N. describes 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."
Check activity schedules: Organized events keep children entertained throughout the day. "Great place to camp!!! The staff was friendly, the bathrooms and grounds were very clean, activities were fun, the playground/pool was nice and the Maine blueberry pancakes were amazing!" shares Erin M. about Sun Outdoors Saco.
Consider weekend noise levels: Weekends tend to be significantly busier and louder than weekdays. "We stayed a weekday night and over the weekend and the weekend was crazy busy. A little too much," explains Daria from Wild Acres Sun RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Cell service reliability: Connectivity varies by location and carrier. "We don't like the campsites being sideways or parallel to the road, it feels strange. Bathrooms were down for cleaning but when they opened they smelled of bleach," notes Nate & His Reina Puertorriqueña H. from Thousand Trails Moody Beach.
Hookup capabilities: Power requirements should be verified before booking. "Consider the Thousand Trails membership when booking this site. Our annual membership fees basically covered what it would cost to camp here for two weeks," advises Paulina B., who adds that "The dog park and pool were small but nice."
Site selection strategy: Request specific areas when booking. "The sites in the front are the newest area of the park and mainly available for the 50AMP consumers. This spot is central to local spots in Ogunquit, ME or Wells, ME," explains The G. about Thousand Trails Moody Beach.
