Cabin camping options flourish near Southport, Maine, where the rocky coastline of the Midcoast region meets the pine forests along the Sheepscot River. Summer temperatures average 75-80°F during the day, dropping to 55-60°F at night, making cabins a comfortable option for those seeking more protection from coastal winds. Many cabins are positioned to maximize views of the tidal waters that fluctuate up to 10 feet between high and low tide.
What to Do
Lighthouse exploration: Visit the historic Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, located approximately 15 minutes from nearby campgrounds. "We spent a night here as we took a road trip up the coast of Maine to Acadia National Park... Right down the road from the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse with a wonderful breakfast spot right next door — I'd recommend the blueberry pancakes," notes Michael H. of Pemaquid Point Campground.
Farm-based activities: Experience a working organic farm at Wolfe's Neck. "We stayed here this summer and was one of our favorites ever! This campground is located on an organic dairy farm. There is a farm cafe on site with local food. We loved that!" shares Tonya M. from Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Campground.
Water sports during tide cycles: Time your water activities around the tidal schedule. "We spent the night in one of the Oceanfront RV spots. The RV spots are in a very open field, but they are directly on the water. When the tide goes out you have the entire inlet to walk around in and explore," explains Michael H. about his stay at Sagadahoc Bay Campground.
Brewery visits: Sample local craft beers within walking distance of your campsite. "The brewery is really cool, and the wood fired pizza is some of my favorite. The folks who run this place are really friendly and accommodating," shares Joe R. from Boothbay Craft Brewery & RV Resort.
What Campers Like
Tidal exploration: Many visitors enjoy the unique experience of walking on exposed tidal flats. "When the tide goes out you can walk over a mile out towards the lighthouse on Sequin Island... Plenty of clamming and watching wild life like hermit crabs, crabs, seagulls," reports Ming R. about their stay at Sagadahoc Bay Campground.
Fresh seafood delivery: Order freshly caught seafood delivered directly to your site. "What an amazing campground right on the ocean. we had such a blast here. clamming and floating in with the tide. Fresh lobsters cooked and delivered to our campsite.. Who could ask for anything more in ocean front camping," raves Chrisdin D. about their experience at Sagadahoc Bay Campground.
Private island access: Some campgrounds offer unique water access points. "The park has a short trail across to an island which our dog loved to run around on and jump in the water," notes Nancy W. about Shore Hills Campground & RV Park.
Clean facilities: Many dog-friendly campgrounds near Southport maintain high cleanliness standards. "This is a lovely spot, great views, the campground does a nice job of splitting the difference between private campgrounds and public state parks... Clean bathroom, although chilly in the 3rd week in May :)" comments Alexia about Chewonki Campground.
What You Should Know
Tidal considerations for swimming: Plan water activities around tide schedules. "The tides are crazy in Maine so be careful if you use the boat launch that you don't get stuck on a mud flat when the 9-11' tide disappears," warns Nancy W. about Shore Hills Campground.
Electricity limitations: Some campgrounds have limited electrical setups. "The electrical hook ups are like 1 box for every 10 camping spots so they r kinda far away so make sure u have an extension cord of some sort," advises Shannon M. about Thomas Point Beach and Campground.
Site selection strategies: Research specific site locations before booking. "Sites were not very private, but the views and scenery are spectacular. My kids enjoyed visiting with the farm animals and walking along the rocky shore each day," reports Michele S. about her stay at Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Campground.
Coin-operated showers: Bring quarters for shower facilities at many campgrounds. "Pull in full hook up site. Coin operated shower. Clean and very well maintained. Property is very nice. Some Rt 1 noise at a distance but nothing unbearable," notes Phillip H. about his experience at Chewonki Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Beach access proximity: Choose campgrounds with easy beach access for children. "We stayed here for a week while exploring the area…don't miss the Guardians of the Seeds (trolls) at the Botanical Gardens! Truly a one of a kind campground with amazing restaurant and brewery on site!" recommends Anna C. from Boothbay Craft Brewery & RV Resort.
Farm animal interactions: Select campgrounds where children can engage with animals. "The grounds are beautiful, the sites are well spaced and not cramped... My son loved the working farm. Close hiking trails. Definitely will be back," shares Mike C. about Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Campground.
Playground availability: Some coastal campgrounds include playground facilities. "One of our families favorite camping spots. We prefer sites near playground that overlook Vasco bay. Bathrooms are very clean and kids really enjoy running in field and that there is a working farm within the camp ground," explains Jessica M. about Wolfe's Neck Oceanfront Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Research specific sites for leveling challenges. "We were in Site 13; it was level and easy enough to back into but just a tad challenging when it was time to leave (we were ok with our 18-foot van, but a larger rig would definitely have trouble)," notes Lee D. from Boothbay Craft Brewery & RV Resort.
Hookup positioning: Check the location of utility connections before arrival. "Hook-ups at our site worked fine and were well-placed and easy to connect to. The wifi was a joke and we got frustrated and gave up," shares Nancy W. about Shore Hills Campground.
Seasonal site differences: Consider how seasonal changes affect RV sites. "The sites are close together but the sites have plenty of space. We never made it up to the upper campground to explore the tent sites so can't speak to up there. We'll definitely return and check out the rest another time," mentions chelsea about Sagadahoc Bay Campground.
