Cabin camping near West Kennebunk, Maine offers access to southern Maine's coastal wetlands and pine forests, with the area receiving approximately 46 inches of annual rainfall. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from May through mid-October due to cold winter temperatures that can drop below freezing. While summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F, cabins provide protection from coastal fog that can develop in early mornings.
What to do
Beach access with shuttle service: Paradise Park Resort provides convenient transportation to Old Orchard Beach. "There is a trolly that will take you to the city for $2, but if you have a bicycle it is a quick 15-minute ride to the beach," notes camper Shawn B. The seven-mile stretch of beach offers space for walking and recreation.
Kayaking in protected waters: Sandy Pines Campground connects to waterways ideal for paddlers. "The back end of the campground is a salt marsh, campers can put in canoes and kayaks right from the campground," reports Steve K. The marsh connects to tidal rivers leading to the ocean.
Biking nature trails: Access the Eastern Trail from Wild Duck Adult Campground for scenic rides. "This quiet campground is about a mile from the Eastern Trail through the Scarborough Marsh," shares Kevin W. The trail is built on a former rail line with a gravel surface suitable for most bicycles.
What campers like
Multiple pool options: Bayley's Camping Resort features dedicated swimming areas for different age groups. "There is a kids pool and a pool for the adults only w/bar," explains Christopher S. The adult area includes hot tubs separated from family areas.
Clean, modern bathrooms: Campers consistently mention bathroom cleanliness across campgrounds. "They have plenty of sites for everything, new bathrooms/showers, lots of upgrades to plumbing and electricity, as well as newly renovated common areas, like the pool," notes J.W. at Sandy Pines Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Wild Duck Adult Campground & RV Park sits on Scarborough Marsh with bird watching potential. "This adult only campground is peaceful and quiet, with the sounds of birds and the trees being the main thing you hear," reports Heather C. The location connects to the Audubon center office within one mile.
What you should know
Seasonal timing matters: Most campgrounds operate from May through mid-October with varying open dates. "We stayed here to see the fall colors. The park is laid out very nice. The sites are nice size with gravel. They are under trees so we could watch the colors change," shares Marilea G. about her autumn visit to Sandy Pines.
Insect preparation essential: Marshy areas require bug protection. "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," warns Megan W. about Wild Duck Adult Campground.
Water recreation options vary: Old Orchard Beach Campground provides both natural and constructed water features. "There are lots of amenities in the campground like... swimming pools and hot tub," notes Nancy W. Some properties offer pond fishing but not swimming.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for crowded summer weekends: Family-oriented campgrounds can get busy at peak times. "We visited in the off-season but can only imagine the park gets pretty busy especially in the front section where the swimming pool, arcade, camp store, and other activities are located," advises Nancy W. about Old Orchard Beach Campground.
Consider extra costs for visitors: Some properties charge for day visitors. "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," explains Nancy W. regarding Old Orchard Beach Campground's visitor policy.
Look for kid-specific activities: Paradise Park Resort offers special features for younger guests. "There are multiple pools and playgrounds. One pool has a hot tub for kids. There's also paddleboats available to rent," Tonisha T. describes. Many campgrounds schedule seasonal activities for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: Red Apple Campground offers structured sites with varying degrees of seclusion. "Campsites are well-spaced and have level asphalt pads. Ours came with picnic table and fire pit," reports Diane S. Look for wooded areas when making reservations if privacy is important.
WiFi reliability varies: Internet connection can be unpredictable at most properties. "The WiFi does not work very well (WFH employees trying to see the world)," notes Jonathan J. at Old Orchard Beach Campground. Satellite users may encounter obstructions. "We have starlink - lots of obstruction so if you need uninterrupted access I'd check with the front desk," advises Sarah A.
Transportation considerations: Many campgrounds require vehicles for access to local attractions. "We were in an rv and had to unhook to go anywhere," explains April C. about her stay at Old Orchard Beach Campground. Some properties offer shuttle services to popular destinations to avoid parking challenges.