Camping near South Casco, Maine offers sites on a mix of lakes and ponds throughout the region, with Sebago Lake serving as the largest water body at 28,771 acres and 12 miles long. Water temperatures in surrounding smaller bodies like Trickey Pond typically warm faster in early summer compared to Sebago Lake. Most campgrounds operate between May and October, with peak foliage colors arriving in mid-October.
What to do
Kayaking on Trickey Pond: Loon's Haven Family Campground provides access to what locals consider one of Maine's clearest ponds. "The pond is crystal clear and we boated over to one of the small islands to find a rope swing which provided entertainment and memories for my children," writes Angela M., who visited with her family.
Hiking at Bradbury Mountain: Bradbury Mountain State Park Campground offers trail access directly from campsites. "Lots and LOTS of trails surrounding the campground. Great for biking and trail running," notes Mackenzie Z. The park features a network of trails accessible without driving once you've arrived.
Farm activities: For an educational component, Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Campground (formerly Recompence Shore) combines camping with agricultural experiences. "My son loved the working farm. Close hiking trails," writes Mike C., highlighting the opportunity to see sustainable farming practices while camping.
What campers like
Free showers: Acres Of Wildlife Family Campground includes shower facilities at no extra charge. "Clean bathrooms (free showers), and a good restaurant if you don't want to cook," reports Sarah L., who has camped there for five years with her family.
Kitchen amenities: Bradbury Mountain State Park Campground offers a communal kitchen area that many campers appreciate. "The kitchen/dish washing lean-to was a wonderful addition!! Loved that it had a coffee maker," says Jessica D., highlighting an uncommon amenity in state parks.
Sandy lake bottom: Naples Campground (formerly Naples KOA) maintains its swimming areas for comfortable water entry. "The campground is on the small side with no chance of getting lost and has mostly seasonal campers there," observes Angela M., noting the community feel at this location.
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Many campgrounds in the region have limited privacy between sites. At Sebago Lake State Park Campground, "The campsites definitely felt like they were on top of each other and are pretty small. We picked a medium one and could barely fit 2 tents and 2 cars with a safe distance from the fire," explains Jess G.
Seasonal differences: Site availability changes dramatically between peak and shoulder seasons. "I was lucky to score a nice site mid week just before the 4th of July," writes Rebecca L. about Sebago Lake State Park, indicating the challenge of securing spots during holidays.
Beach conditions: Water quality monitoring affects swimming opportunities. "Sometimes the lake is not swim able due to duckage," notes Michelle D. about Sebago Lake State Park, referring to periodic closures due to water quality issues.
Tips for camping with families
Activity schedules: Acres Of Wildlife Family Campground schedules regular entertainment for children. "A must! This camp ground is FULL of fun for kids. There is activities and 2/3 playgrounds," reports Darci F., highlighting the organized programming available.
Bike-friendly options: Some campgrounds offer better cycling opportunities for children. "Our campground was not full when we stayed. Dog friendly, toilets, SHOWERS, and the most adorable communal outdoor covered kitchen," writes Mackenzie Z. about Bradbury Mountain State Park, noting the biking trails surrounding the campground.
Water safety: Different water bodies offer varying swimming conditions for young children. "Huge campground on a lake with SO MANY activities, but also a lot of screaming kids. There's fishing, boats for rent, and an activity calendar to keep all ages entertained," explains Becky T. about Acres of Wildlife.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Desert of Maine Campground underwent renovations but still has limitations for larger vehicles. "RV's that are large should not try this campground," advises LoneCamper C., who appreciated the campground's design despite this limitation.
Electrical setup: Colonial Mast Campground offers year-round camping with some seasonal adjustments. "We stayed at Colonial Mast Campground 10/31/2020 to 11/1/2020. The water was turned off at our site due to freezing temps. Sewer and electric were available," explains J B., noting the extended season camping option.
Campground navigation: Some campgrounds have challenging interior roads. "Be sure to bring extensions for electrical and sewer as a lot of sites are set up with difficult connection spots. Relatively level sites, long dirt road to get to is a bit of a problem," warns Ed C. about Acres Of Wildlife.
