The Maine coast near Wells sits just 60 miles from Boston, making it a convenient coastal camping destination. The area receives average summer temperatures of 70-80°F during peak camping season, with cooler nights often in the 50s. Campgrounds in the Wells region typically operate from mid-May through mid-October, with a few locations offering extended seasons into the fall for campers seeking to avoid summer crowds.
What to do
Kayaking from campgrounds: Beaver Dam Campground provides direct pond access for kayakers. "There is a pond right there, there is a swimming area in the pond. If you canoe or kayak, there is a pond right there, campers can put in canoes and kayaks right from the campground," notes Sandie B.
Explore small coastal towns: The area offers charming towns beyond the main beaches. "[Cape Porpoise is] home of Nunann's Restaurant, Mussette, Lost Fire and Pier 77. Some of the best food in the area without having to deal with the crushing crowds of the Kennebunkport scene," reports Chris from his stay at Sandy Pines Campground.
Biking to nearby attractions: Several campgrounds offer easy cycling access to beaches. "For those so inclined, there is great mountain biking either through the Tyler Preserve down to Cape Porpoise or North through the Emmitt Smith Preserve," writes Joe R. about the trail options from Sandy Pines Campground.
What campers like
Oceanfront camping: Libbys Oceanside Camp provides direct ocean views. "Libbys Oceanfront Campground York, Maine gives campers a mesmerizing coastline scene experience. You will experience stunning sunsets and sunrises over the horizon of the Atlantic Ocean," shares Anonymous A.
Heated facilities during shoulder seasons: Fall camping remains comfortable at Old Orchard Beach Campground. "We came in in October, the foliage is beautiful on the 'wooded' sites. There are new sites with gravel and no trees as well, we had our choice," reports Kasey M.
Tent-specific areas: Some campgrounds create dedicated tent sections for a better tent camping experience. "I loved that there was a tent only area that felt a little more secluded and quiet with some nice privacy between sites," notes Kaileigh K. about their experience at Sandy Pines.
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Site quality can differ dramatically within the same campground. "The sites are very close together. This means that you share the space where you sit outside with the camper behind you, resulting in very little privacy," warns Arno W. about Thousand Trails Moody Beach.
Cash-only policies: Some campgrounds maintain strict payment requirements. "Well, it all started when we pulled in first thing they only take cash. So I worked that out then they pulled us into a super tight pull through spot," explains Ronald C. about his Red Apple Campground experience.
Insect management: Mosquitos can be problematic, particularly in wooded areas. "It was a little muddy and I think we went in mosquito high season. I would probably not go again," mentions Steve K. about his stay at Hemlock Grove Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Budget for visitor fees: Some campgrounds charge for any additional guests. "If you want to have guests, plan on shelling out a bit of cash as it is $8/day for kids and $10 for adults and $12 for overnight guests," advises Nancy W. about Old Orchard Beach Campground.
Look for multiple bathroom facilities: Campground bathroom quality varies widely. "The bathroom facilities were pretty good, though they weren't cleaned as often as they should be," reports Paulina B. about her stay at Thousand Trails Moody Beach.
Choose tent sites near marsh views: Tent campers can find better experiences in select locations. "While I love having all the amenities, I think we would have enjoyed one of the electric only sites closer to the Marsh," suggests Joe R. about his stay at Sandy Pines Campground.
Tips from RVers
Consider joining membership programs: Discounts can significantly reduce costs. "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. about Thousand Trails Moody Beach.
Check site layout before booking: Some sites accommodate RVs in unusual configurations. "The campground layout is quite unusual, with campers parked lengthwise along the road," notes Arno W. about Thousand Trails Moody Beach.
Test WiFi at registration: Signal strength varies throughout many campgrounds. "The WiFi is awful away from the registration office. We were in the wooded area, but those camping on the outskirts seemed able to utilize their Starlink," reports Paulina B. during her stay at Moody Beach RV Campground.
