West Kennebunk camping options provide convenient access to southern Maine's coastal attractions while offering tree-covered sites away from beach crowds. Located within 20 minutes of popular beaches and just 30 miles south of Portland, the area combines inland forest settings with easy coastal access. Campgrounds in this region typically open from mid-May through mid-October, with mosquitoes most prevalent in June and July.
What to do
Kayak the Scarborough Marsh: Put in directly from Wild Duck Adult Campground where you can access the marsh waters. "In theory, you can launch a kayak from the campground, but I would not recommend it. There is a culvert under Rt 9 that you need to pass under which is dangerous - the Audubon Center informed us that people have flipped in the culvert due to the current," notes Heather C.
Visit Kennebunkport shops: Explore coastal boutiques within a short drive from nearby campgrounds. "Sandy Pines is located a very short bike ride from Cape Porpoise, 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," shares Chris in his review of Sandy Pines Campground.
Explore coastal biking trails: Access the Eastern Trail for biking, walking, or running from several area campgrounds. "It is within a mile of the Audubon center office, where you can either put in your own kayak/canoe or rent one," reports a camper about the trail access at Wild Duck Campground.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Many campgrounds offer shaded sites with natural separation. "We like to stay in the 'south section' which tends to have less kids because it is farther away from the 'action.' Plus, it is close to the Little River Complex which is an adult-only section with pool, hot tubs, café, bathhouse, and laundry," explains Nancy W. about Bayley's Camping Resort.
Beach access options: Most campgrounds provide either shuttle service or easy driving access to nearby beaches. "Ride 10 minutes in the opposite direction and you arrive at Goose Rocks Beach, the best shoreline beach on southern Maine," reports a Sandy Pines camper.
Adult-only sections: Several campgrounds cater specifically to adults seeking quieter experiences. "This adult only campground is peaceful and quiet, with the sounds of birds and the trees being the main thing you hear - it is quite relaxing," writes Heather C. about Wild Duck Adult Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limits: Most campgrounds close from mid-October until May. "The campground operates seasonally from April 15 to October 15, maintaining a 4.7/5 rating among visitors who appreciate the spacious, wooded sites," notes a reviewer of Hemlock Grove Campground.
Mosquito preparedness: Proximity to marshlands means insects can be problematic. "We stayed here in our popup for two nights in June 2018. 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.
Cash-only policies: Some campgrounds have specific payment requirements. "They only accept cash, and that should have made us wary," notes Pam R. about her stay at Red Apple Campground, adding that payment flexibility can be limited at certain locations.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Most family-friendly campgrounds offer swimming options. "The playground and pool were a hit with the kids. The bathrooms were always clean and single user, some had showers as well. The proximity to goose rocks beach was a major plus!" reports Kaileigh K. from Sandy Pines Campground.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds are quieter than others, important for families with young children. "The sites in the front are the newest area of the park and mainly available for the 50AMP consumers. This spot is central to local spots in Ogunquit, ME or Wells, ME," notes a camper from Thousand Trails Moody Beach.
Entertainment options: Campgrounds vary in their activities and amenities. "This is a rockstar of a campsite. They have everything you need, minus an ATM. There is a general store with the normal gear. They have a pool and hot tub. There is a small, but very well-kept dog park," shares Shawn B. about Old Orchard Beach Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: RVers recommend specific areas within larger campgrounds. "The wooded sites tend to be more private and less loud. Staying by any of the pools will be louder. The adults only area can get loud in the summer with music during the day," advises Claire T. about Bayley's Camping Resort.
Site surface considerations: Gravel pads are common but quality varies between campgrounds. "Our gravel site was perfectly level with no potholes and the roads leading to our site were easy to navigate in our 45' motorhome. The patio was gravel and there was some grass between campsites," reports Nancy W.
Connection quality varies: WiFi and cell service can be unreliable at some locations. "Stayed back in 2023 with travel trailer and experienced almost zero wifi signal as well as verizon cell signal. Returned this past week and found no improvement whatsoever," warns Russ V. about Sun Outdoors Wells Beach.
