RV parks near Southport, Maine occupy a unique position on Maine's rugged midcoast, situated on a peninsula surrounded by the Sheepscot River and Atlantic Ocean waters. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 40-100 feet above sea level, with coastal sites experiencing significant tidal changes of 8-11 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through April, creating a compressed camping season with most facilities closing by mid-October.
What to do
Kayak the tidal waters: Sagadahoc Bay Campground provides direct access to coastal paddling. "When the tide goes out you have the entire inlet to walk around in and explore. At night the stars were absolutely amazing!" notes Michael H. The tidal changes create different paddling experiences throughout the day.
Visit nearby state parks: Several campgrounds serve as convenient base camps for exploring Reid State Park and other natural areas. "Reed State Park (ocean swimming) and Five Islands (great views and seafood) are a short drive away," mentions Ming R. from Sagadahoc Bay Campground. Most parks charge day-use fees ranging from $6-9 per person.
Explore local trails: Shore Hills Campground & RV Park offers access to nearby hiking opportunities. "Nearby is the Ovens Mouth Preserve which has great hiking and nice water views and is just one of many nature preserves in the area which all are very nice, well-marked, well-maintained, and dog-friendly," shares Nancy W.
Sample local craft beverages: Boothbay Craft Brewery & RV Resort combines camping with on-site brewing. "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," reports Joe R.
What campers like
Tidal beaches and clamming: Campers appreciate waterfront sites with changing landscapes. "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," explains Ming R. at Sagadahoc Bay Campground. Clamming licenses and tools are often available for purchase at campground offices.
Shuttle services to beaches: Several campgrounds offer transportation to nearby beaches. "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. at Saco/Old Orchard Beach KOA.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms. "The bathrooms and showers were really clean and you constantly saw yellow-shirted people busily working," reports Nancy W. about Saco/Old Orchard Beach KOA. At Wild Duck Adult Campground, Kevin W. notes "This quiet campground is small but well maintained."
What you should know
Seasonal operating limitations: Most campgrounds in the region operate from May through October. "Wild Acres Sun RV Resort" runs from "Apr 30 - Oct 13" according to their listing information, with most facilities closing before the first frost.
Insects can be intense: The coastal marsh areas create mosquito breeding grounds. Ming R. cautions, "It is coastal Maine and there are mean mosquitoes. My all natural bug spray which is usually strong enough for NY bugs is not effective there." At Wild Duck Adult Campground & RV Park, Amanda B. notes, "Since it is by the marsh there were a lot of mosquitoes (August)."
Train noise near some coastal sites: Several campgrounds have railroad tracks between them and the ocean. At Wild Acres RV Resort, Bryan warns, "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
Consider pool availability: Wild Acres Sun RV Resort offers multiple swimming options. "There are 3 pools, one for little tots, teens and adults," notes Dawn T. This provides separate spaces for different age groups.
Check for activity schedules: Many campgrounds coordinate events for children. Jill P. shares, "Kid activities were done regularly. Pizza and breakfast is very good if you do lunch want to cook. Outdoor movies were fun."
Research quiet areas: Some campgrounds have designated family-friendly zones. "KK15, K3, K2 and K1 are great options as well, located along the wooded edges of the grounds. Tent sites 96, P5, P4, P3, P2 and P1 were also among the best spots, offering full shade and privacy," advises Rachel P. about Saco/Old Orchard Beach KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Shore Hills Campground, Nancy W. advises, "Some of their 30-amp waterfront sites come with great views. They also have some sites tucked in the woods that are super wide with huge patios and lots of privacy between you and your neighbor and great for families or large gatherings."
Plan for off-season accommodations: Wild Duck Adult Campground & RV Park provides a quieter alternative to beach-focused parks. Josh G. notes, "Very great campground. This location gives you a whole new look into old orchards scenery. During sunrise and sunset, the marshes reflect the sun and give the perfect picture for relaxation." The campground's adult-only policy creates a different atmosphere than family-oriented facilities.
Consider surge protection: Power issues can affect some RV parks. Low voltage has been reported at multiple campgrounds, particularly during peak season when electrical systems are under maximum load. RVers recommend bringing surge protectors when camping in remote coastal locations.