Campgrounds in Maine's South Coast Region

Maine's South Coast is known as the "Gateway to Maine" and is best known for its beaches, outlet shopping, for the quiet elegance of Kennebunk and Ogunquit, for Portland's Old Port district and "The Children's Miracle Mile" in Saco. Maine's South Coast offers miles of sandy beaches, including York, Ogunquit, Wells and Old Orchard Beach. Lately, those beaches have gotten their fair share of attention. Recently, Family Fun Magazine rated the South Coast as having the best family beach in the northeast, and Money Magazine followed with an equally complimentary article.

Beaches are just one of the attractions of Maine's South Coast, however. The boardwalk of Old Orchard Beach has attracted families for as far back as anyone can remember, as has the quiet and historic Old Port Shopping District in Portland with its numerous boutiques and unusual shops. Outlet shopping is also alive as well at Kittery's milelong outlet center and in Freeport at the famous L.L. Bean store. Lighthouses also play a large part in the history of Maine's South Coast, from the Cape Neddick Light in York to the Portland Headlight and Museum in Cape Elizabeth. Portland Headlight, Maine's oldest lighthouse, was commissioned in 1791 by George Washington himself.

Art galleries, antique shops, museums and Ogunquit's famous summer theater co-exist with Funtown/Splashtown U.S.A. and Aquaboggan Water Park in Saco. Ogunquit's sophisticated and quiet Perkins Cove attracts shoppers and diners from around the world, as does Portland with its exciting glimpse of history, art galleries, museums, shopping opportunities, fine restaurants and fun-filled nightlife. Of course, many people who visit Maine's South Coast take a trip to Kennebunk and Kennebunkport - famous as the summer home of former President George Bush. (Yes, his famous son, President George W., also visits on a regular basis.) There is so much to see and do in and around Portland that it is impossible to list all activities. Almost anything you can think of is available including a professional baseball team, harness racing, lobster cruises and even Henry Wardsworth Longfellow's home.

The western portion of the South Coast Region is made up of many small communities that feature historic sites, lakes and rivers, including the Saco River renowned for canoeing, and numerous other opportunities for outdoor activities. One particularly interesting destination in this area is Willowbrook at Newfield, featuring an 1890's community setting complete with a restored 1894 carousel featuring 24 horses and chariots and original music. There are several golf courses throughout the South Coast Region, and plenty of water activities, from deep sea fishing to pleasure boat excursions, from canoeing to kayaking.The South Coast really is an area that offers something for everyone.