Campgrounds surrounding York Harbor, Maine remain open through mid-October, with most facilities closing as temperatures drop below 50°F at night. Several campgrounds position visitors within walking distance or a short drive to beaches, lighthouses, and coastal attractions. The area receives an average of 3.5 inches of rainfall during summer months, with July typically being the driest period for camping in this region.
What to do
Beach exploration: 10-minute drive from York Beach Camper Park puts campers near multiple coastal access points. "The staff are super friendly and it's very close to the beach. We loved being able to walk down for sunset and sunrise each day," notes Katie R.
Lighthouse visits: 15-minute drive to Nubble Light House from Dixons Coastal Maine Campground. "Don't miss Nubble Light House and Fox's Lobster house. Around the corner is a great Ice Cream shop," recommends Bob W., who stayed at Dixons during late August.
Kayaking: On-site access at several locations, including marshland routes. One camper at Sandy Pines mentioned, "There is a small waterway that leads right out to some tidal rivers that go to the ocean, great for kayaking and fishing. Beautiful wooded sites with sunrises over the marshes."
Antique shopping: Route 1 corridor features dozens of shops within 5-30 minutes of most campgrounds. Seasonal summer hours typically run 10am-5pm with many shops closed on Mondays.
What campers like
Ocean views: Premium waterfront sites at Libbys Oceanside Camp offer direct ocean access. "This campsite has a great view over the ocean towards the lighthouse. The site is very tidy and toilets clean! Everything you would need available," reports Olaf, who gave the campground five stars.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms throughout the region's campgrounds. Tim M. noted about Libbys Oceanside Camp: "Mgt staff is absolutely fantastic! So friendly and helpful. Sounds of crashing surf are divine."
Proximity to towns: Short drives to multiple coastal communities. "The park is well located... with access to Portland," mentioned a reviewer. Another camper at Cape Neddick Oceanside Campground shared, "It is right on the water, and it's just beautiful... We got a spot 50 feet from the water, and for me, there is nothing better."
Wooded sites: Natural shade at many campgrounds provides relief during summer heat. A camper at Wakeda Campground described "beautiful massive forest. The campground was splendid with old tall, pine trees everywhere."
What you should know
Site sizes vary considerably: Many oceanfront campgrounds have limited space. At Libbys, "Campsites very close together, only the front row right on the ocean can make wood burning fires," according to Tim M.
Reservation timelines: Book 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends at most campgrounds, especially for waterfront sites. Spring and fall offer more availability with 2-4 weeks advance booking typically sufficient.
Tent camping limitations: Some campgrounds prioritize RVs over tent campers. A visitor to Sandy Pines noted, "The most significant con was that this campground is truly only for RV camping. Us tent campers were on sites with zero trees. It almost felt as if they were trying to dissuade tent campers from coming here."
Weather considerations: Overnight temperatures drop to 50-55°F even in summer. One camper advised bringing "extra layers, especially in early and late season" when temperatures can fall below 50°F after sunset.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple options at Wakeda Campground with family-friendly facilities. "Great employees, clean reliable power. No issues great spread out sites," says Zachary W. Another visitor noted Wakeda is "friendly and fun" with a "laid back atmosphere, so easy to relax here."
Swimming options: Both ocean and pools available at various campgrounds. At Thousand Trails Moody Beach, a reviewer mentioned "The dog park and pool were small but nice," providing alternatives when ocean water is too cold.
Organized activities: Scheduled events at larger campgrounds during peak season. A camper at Moody Beach RV reported, "Very family friendly. Lots of people. Not very private or secluded. Public bathrooms. Tons of activities for the kids."
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk opportunities to see local animals. "Walking around we saw wild turkeys, bunnies, and a hummingbird," shared a camper who stayed at Wakeda Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Request specific areas when booking at Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort. "Pull through sites, while close were arranged in such a way so that you are not next to the sewer hookup of your neighbor. A big plus for me," notes Mommy D.
Power reliability: Full hookups available at most campgrounds with 30/50 amp service. Zachary W. at Wakeda Campground reported "clean reliable power" throughout their stay.
WiFi limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. A recent visitor to Moody Beach noted, "The spots are pretty tight, and 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."
Coastal weather affects equipment: Salt air can impact exposed metal components. Several RVers recommend washing vehicles and connectors more frequently than inland locations to prevent corrosion.
