RV sites near South Portland, Maine provide seasonal camping options from spring through mid-October with varying levels of privacy. Most South Portland area campgrounds close between October and May due to the coastal New England climate, with average summer temperatures ranging from 60-80°F. The region's campgrounds feature a mix of wooded sites and open fields, with many providing shuttle services to nearby beaches.
What to do
Kayaking in Scarborough Marsh: Located just minutes from South Portland at Wild Duck Adult Campground, you can access Eastern Trail for biking or walking. "This campground is about a mile from the Eastern Trail through the Scarborough Marsh. This campground is small but well maintained," notes Kevin W. The Audubon Center nearby offers kayak rentals.
Old Orchard Beach Access: Several campgrounds offer beach transportation options during summer months. "The trolley will pick you up from the campground and take you to Old Orchard Beach. Very friendly staff. Kid activities were done regularly," reports Jill P. about her stay.
Playground Activities: Campgrounds like Cole's Mine RV Resort offer extensive play areas for children. Laura C. found it "perfect for small families or parents of younger kids. 2 amazing playgrounds, clean facilities and one amazing pool."
What campers like
Heated Pools and Amenities: Many campers appreciate pools regardless of Maine's cooler temperatures. According to Andrew G., Cole's Mine "is well payed out and very well taken care of. The pool is heated and has an amazing water slide and themed."
Privacy Levels: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options. At Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach, Rachel P. found that "K16 was a single room cabin that could comfortably sleep 4, furnished with a full-sized bed and a bunk bed. We were shocked to find that the cabin had electrical, lights and a small heater."
Location Convenience: Proximity to Portland makes some campgrounds appealing for urban exploration. Alec G. called Wild Duck Adult Campground a "Hidden Portland Gem" that's "close to the city of Portland, about 20 minutes, but tucked away in the beautiful riverside marsh."
What you should know
Seasonal Pricing Considerations: Summer rates at many South Portland area RV resorts can be significantly higher than spring and fall rates, with most peak pricing from late June through August.
Site Privacy Varies: Site spacing differs dramatically between campgrounds. At Shamrock Campground, Leona noted "camping spots are a bit cramped. We have a huge tent. But everyone was super nice."
Mosquito Preparation: Marsh locations can have significant insect activity. Megan W. warned about Wild Duck Adult Campground: "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."
Train Noise Considerations: Some campgrounds have railroad tracks nearby. Bryan reported about Wild Acres Sun RV Resort: "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'."
Tips for camping with families
Quieter Off-Peak Visits: Weekdays and shoulder seasons provide more peaceful family experiences. David A. noted about Wild Acres Sun RV Resort: "Sun night was way quieter than Fri and Sat night. Park has great amenities, and well run but just be prepared for large groups, loud music and managed chaos."
Activity Planning: Many campgrounds offer structured programs for children. One camper praised Sun Outdoors Saco Old Orchard Beach for its "amenities including a heated pool, hot tub (adults only), basketball, volleyball, playground, and various activities like s'mores, crafts, ice cream socials and more."
Age-Specific Amenities: Some parks have designated areas for different age groups. The Dyrt reviewer Tammie M. appreciated that Wild Acres Tent & Trailer Park has "great activities every week during the summer for kids and adults and special times they have for teens to be themselves without smaller kids or adults."
Tips from RVers
Site Selection Strategy: For larger RVs, request sites away from tight turns and low-hanging branches. Arno W. warned about Thousand Trails Moody Beach: "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."
Road Navigation: Several campgrounds have challenging internal roads. Susan J. appreciated Sea-Vu West Premier RV Resort because "roads are paved so kids can ride their bikes with ease. Place is very clean and close to the beach."
Seasonal Site Availability: Many campgrounds convert transient sites to seasonal sites, reducing availability for short-term stays. Judith M. noted about Wagon Wheel Sun RV Resorts: "Nice management but too many transient sites becoming seasonal sites in the past few years."
Leveling Requirements: Some sites require extra equipment for proper leveling. One RVer mentioned that several campgrounds near South Portland have unlevel sites that may require additional blocks or leveling systems, especially for larger rigs.