Old Orchard Beach Maine Campground: Your Ultimate Guide
Hey guys! Are you dreaming of a fantastic camping getaway in Maine? Look no further than Old Orchard Beach! This vibrant coastal town offers a perfect blend of classic seaside charm and natural beauty. Let's dive into why Old Orchard Beach campgrounds are a stellar choice for your next vacation.
Why Choose Old Orchard Beach for Camping?
Old Orchard Beach (OOB) is a gem on the Maine coastline, drawing visitors with its iconic pier, sandy beaches, and lively atmosphere. But beyond the bustling attractions, it’s also a fantastic spot for camping.
Prime Location: Camping near Old Orchard Beach means you're just a stone's throw away from all the action. Imagine waking up to the sound of the waves and spending your day soaking up the sun, building sandcastles, or strolling along the pier. Then, you can retreat to your peaceful campsite for a relaxing evening under the stars. It's the best of both worlds!
Variety of Campgrounds: Whether you're a seasoned camper with a decked-out RV or a newbie looking to pitch a tent, Old Orchard Beach has something for everyone. You'll find campgrounds that cater to different preferences and budgets, from rustic sites with basic amenities to full-service resorts with swimming pools, playgrounds, and even planned activities.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Old Orchard Beach is renowned for its family-friendly vibe. The campgrounds in this area reflect that, offering a safe and welcoming environment for families with kids of all ages. Many campgrounds have playgrounds, game rooms, and organized events to keep the little ones entertained.
Natural Beauty: Beyond the beach, the Old Orchard Beach area boasts stunning natural beauty. You can explore nearby nature trails, go birdwatching, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Camping allows you to immerse yourself in nature and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Local Attractions: Staying at an Old Orchard Beach campground puts you in close proximity to a variety of attractions. Of course, there's the beach itself, but you can also visit the iconic pier, Funtown Splashtown USA amusement park, and the numerous shops and restaurants in town. Plus, you're within easy driving distance of other popular Maine destinations like Portland and Kennebunkport.
Community: Camping creates a sense of community, and the campgrounds around Old Orchard Beach are no exception. You'll have the chance to meet fellow travelers, share stories around the campfire, and make lasting memories. Campgrounds often host social events and activities that bring people together, creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
Affordability: Camping can be a much more affordable option than staying in a hotel or rental property, especially for families or larger groups. By bringing your own tent or RV and cooking your own meals, you can save a significant amount of money on accommodation and dining. This makes camping a great way to enjoy a vacation without breaking the bank.
Top Campgrounds Near Old Orchard Beach
Alright, let's get into some specific campground recommendations. These spots are consistently praised for their amenities, location, and overall experience.
1. Old Orchard Beach Campground
As the name suggests, Old Orchard Beach Campground is super close to the beach and all the action. This campground offers a mix of tent sites, RV sites, and cabin rentals, making it suitable for various camping styles. Here's what you can expect:
Location: Located right in the heart of Old Orchard Beach, you're just a short walk from the beach, pier, and downtown area. This prime location means you can easily access all the attractions and activities that OOB has to offer.
Amenities: Old Orchard Beach Campground boasts a wide range of amenities to make your stay comfortable and convenient. These include full hookups for RVs, clean restrooms and showers, a laundry facility, and a camp store. They also have a playground for the kids and a recreation hall for social gatherings.
Activities: The campground organizes various activities and events throughout the season, such as live music, bingo nights, and potluck dinners. This is a great way to meet other campers and get a taste of the local community.
Types of Campsites: Whether you're looking for a rustic tent site or a full-service RV site, Old Orchard Beach Campground has you covered. They offer a variety of campsites to suit different needs and preferences. The tent sites are spacious and shaded, while the RV sites have full hookups for water, electricity, and sewer.
Pet-Friendly: This campground welcomes furry friends, so you don't have to leave your beloved pet at home. They have designated pet-friendly areas and even a dog park where your canine companion can run and play.
Reviews: Campers rave about the convenient location, friendly staff, and well-maintained facilities. Many reviewers note that it's the perfect base for exploring Old Orchard Beach and the surrounding area. However, some campers mention that it can get a bit noisy due to its central location.
2. Saco River Camping Area
If you're looking for a more secluded and nature-oriented camping experience, Saco River Camping Area is an excellent choice. Located a short drive from Old Orchard Beach, this campground offers a peaceful retreat along the Saco River.
Location: Situated on the banks of the Saco River, this campground offers a serene and picturesque setting. You can enjoy swimming, fishing, and canoeing right from the campground. It's also just a short drive from Old Orchard Beach and other local attractions.
Amenities: Saco River Camping Area offers a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable. These include clean restrooms and showers, a laundry facility, and a camp store. They also have a swimming pool, a playground, and a game room for the kids.
Activities: The campground offers a variety of activities to keep you entertained, such as swimming, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. They also have a volleyball court, a basketball court, and a horseshoe pit. In the evenings, you can gather around the campfire for storytelling and s'mores.
Types of Campsites: Saco River Camping Area offers a mix of tent sites and RV sites, with both wooded and open options. The tent sites are spacious and private, while the RV sites have full hookups for water, electricity, and sewer. They also have cabin rentals available.
Pet-Friendly: This campground welcomes pets, so you can bring your furry friend along for the adventure. They have designated pet-friendly areas and even a dog park where your canine companion can run and play.
Reviews: Campers praise the beautiful location, friendly staff, and well-maintained facilities. Many reviewers note that it's a great place to relax and unwind in nature. Some campers mention that the river can be a bit cold for swimming, but it's still a great spot for canoeing and kayaking.
3. Wassamki Springs Campground
Wassamki Springs Campground, another fantastic option near Old Orchard Beach, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and extensive amenities.
Location: Located in Scarborough, just a short drive from Old Orchard Beach, Wassamki Springs Campground offers a convenient base for exploring the area. It's also close to other popular attractions like the Maine Wildlife Park and the Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center.
Amenities: Wassamki Springs Campground boasts an impressive array of amenities, including a swimming pool, a splash pad, a playground, and a game room. They also have a camp store, a snack bar, and a laundry facility. For RVers, they offer full hookups, including water, electricity, and sewer.
Activities: The campground organizes a wide range of activities and events throughout the season, such as live music, movie nights, and arts and crafts. They also have a volleyball court, a basketball court, and a horseshoe pit. The swimming pool and splash pad are always a hit with the kids.
Types of Campsites: Wassamki Springs Campground offers a variety of campsites to suit different needs and preferences. They have tent sites, RV sites, and cabin rentals available. The tent sites are spacious and shaded, while the RV sites have full hookups. The cabins are equipped with basic amenities like beds, tables, and chairs.
Pet-Friendly: This campground welcomes pets, so you can bring your furry friend along for the fun. They have designated pet-friendly areas and even a dog park where your canine companion can run and play.
Reviews: Campers rave about the family-friendly atmosphere, extensive amenities, and well-maintained facilities. Many reviewers note that it's a great place to bring the kids and create lasting memories. Some campers mention that it can get a bit crowded during peak season, but the amenities and activities make it worth it.
Tips for Planning Your Camping Trip
To ensure your Old Orchard Beach camping trip is a smash hit, here are a few essential tips:
Book in Advance: Especially during the peak summer months, campgrounds near Old Orchard Beach can fill up quickly. To avoid disappointment, it's highly recommended to book your campsite well in advance.
Pack Appropriately: Maine weather can be unpredictable, so it's important to pack for all types of conditions. Bring layers of clothing, rain gear, and sturdy footwear. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit.
Check Campground Amenities: Before you book your campsite, make sure to check what amenities are available. Do they have restrooms and showers? Are there hookups for RVs? Is there a camp store on-site? Knowing what to expect will help you plan accordingly.
Plan Activities: While relaxing at the campground is great, you'll also want to explore the area. Plan some activities in advance, such as visiting the beach, going to Funtown Splashtown USA, or hiking in a nearby state park.
Respect the Environment: When camping, it's important to respect the environment and leave no trace behind. Dispose of your trash properly, avoid disturbing wildlife, and be mindful of noise levels.
Be Prepared for Bugs: Maine is known for its mosquitoes and black flies, especially during the summer months. Be sure to bring insect repellent and consider wearing long sleeves and pants in the evenings.
Enjoy Your Old Orchard Beach Camping Adventure!
Old Orchard Beach is an amazing place for a camping vacation, offering a perfect mix of beach fun, natural beauty, and family-friendly activities. By choosing the right campground and following these tips, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, grab your tent or RV, and get ready for an adventure in Maine! You won't regret it!
