Shore Hills Campground & RV Park

For those of us who live in Maine, the appeal of a coastal escape, especially one that offers both convenience and a touch of classic camping charm, is undeniable. When planning a trip to the beautiful Boothbay region, finding the right basecamp is key to a memorable experience. Today, we're taking a closer look at Shore Hills Campground & RV Park, a long-standing fixture at 553 Wiscasset Road in Boothbay. This campground offers a unique blend of "old school" charm with the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay, all while being perfectly positioned to explore one of Maine's most beloved coastal towns.

Boothbay, often dubbed the "boating capital of New England," is a vibrant hub of activity, offering everything from scenic boat excursions and fresh lobster shacks to quaint shops and stunning botanical gardens. Shore Hills Campground & RV Park provides an ideal home base for Mainers looking to dive into this rich coastal experience. Its location, "far enough from downtown Boothbay to avoid the traffic but close enough for a quick trip into town," as noted by a local reviewer, is a significant advantage. This strategic positioning allows campers to enjoy the tranquility of their site while having easy access to all the excitement Boothbay Harbor has to offer.

We understand that choosing a campground involves weighing various factors, from amenities to atmosphere. Shore Hills, with its mix of open, wooded, and waterfront sites, aims to accommodate a wide range of camping preferences. While some aspects might lean towards a more traditional camping experience, its commitment to keeping the grounds clean and providing essential services remains a priority. This article will provide a detailed and factual overview of Shore Hills Campground & RV Park, helping you decide if it's the right fit for your next MidCoast Maine adventure.

Shore Hills Campground & RV Park is conveniently located at 553 Wiscasset Rd, Boothbay, ME 04537, USA. This address places it directly on Route 27 (Wiscasset Road), a main artery connecting Boothbay to the rest of the MidCoast region. For Mainers, reaching the campground is typically a straightforward drive, often involving Route 1 to Wiscasset, and then branching off onto Route 27 South towards Boothbay. The roads are generally well-maintained, accommodating all sizes of RVs and towing vehicles.

What makes Shore Hills' location particularly advantageous for local visitors is its strategic balance. It's situated far enough from the bustling downtown Boothbay Harbor to offer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere, which can be a real blessing during peak tourist season. Yet, it remains remarkably close for easy access. A quick trip into town means you’re just minutes away from Boothbay Harbor's famous footbridge, boat tours, diverse dining options, and unique shops. Additionally, popular attractions like the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens and the Boothbay Railway Village are just a short drive away. This allows campers to enjoy the tranquility of their site without sacrificing the convenience of exploring the vibrant local area.

Shore Hills Campground & RV Park offers a range of services and facilities designed to cater to both RV and tent campers, ensuring a comfortable stay.

• Campsites: Approximately 150 sites are available, including waterfront, wooded, and open options. They accommodate various setups, from large RVs ("No Rig Too Big") to small pop-ups and tents.
• Hookups: RV sites offer full hookups, including 20, 30, and 50 amp electric service, water, and sewer connections.
• Picnic Tables & Fireplaces: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fireplace for outdoor cooking and enjoyment.
• Restrooms & Showers: Restroom facilities with hot showers are available. While some feedback suggests they might be "old school," they are consistently noted for being kept clean.
• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry facilities are provided for guest convenience.
• Camp Store & Gift Shop: A well-stocked store offers groceries, supplies, firewood, ice, souvenirs, and local information. They can also provide lobster and clam kettles for authentic Maine meals.
• Propane: LP gas is available for purchase.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is provided for RVs.
• WiFi & Cable TV: Free WiFi is available throughout the park, and cable TV hookups are provided at RV sites.
• Recreation Hall: A space for communal gathering and activities.
• Playground: A playground is on-site for children.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome, though restrictions on aggressive breeds apply, and owners must keep them leashed and clean up after them.
• Daily Trash Pickup: Each campsite receives an outdoor trashcan that is replaced regularly, a service praised by visitors for its convenience.
• Shuttle Service: A shuttle service to Boothbay Harbor is available for a nominal fee, providing easy transportation without the hassle of parking in town.
• On-site Rentals: Cabins are available for rent, including "The Cabin" (pet-friendly, sleeps up to 4 with queen bed and pull-out couch, full bath, kitchen/living area) and two other cabins (Driftwood and Seaglass, each accommodating 2 people, with linens, bath, and outside grill). There is also a simpler "Camping Cabin Rental with Bunks" near the bathhouse (linens not provided, no private bath).

• Strategic Location: Positioned on Wiscasset Road, offering a quiet setting while being a short, convenient drive to downtown Boothbay Harbor, allowing campers to easily explore local attractions without heavy traffic.
• Variety of Sites: Features 150 sites, including waterfront options, open grassy areas (great for Starlink users!), and wooded, more private sites, accommodating a range of RV sizes ("No Rig Too Big or Too Small") and tent setups.
• Dedicated Trash Service: Individual trashcans at each site with daily pickup, a highly appreciated convenience.
• Pet-Friendly Options: Welcomes pets (with some restrictions), including a specific pet-friendly cabin option, making it easier for Mainers to travel with their furry companions.
• Convenient Shuttle Service: Offers a shuttle to Boothbay Harbor for a small fee, alleviating parking concerns in the busy downtown area.
• Classic Camping Atmosphere: Described as "old school" by some, it provides a traditional camping experience with a focus on cleanliness and essential amenities.
• Friendly Hospitality: While some specific negative feedback exists regarding noise complaints, other reviews praise the friendly people and amazing views, suggesting a generally welcoming environment.
• Close to Attractions: Proximity to Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Boothbay Railway Village, Red's Eats (in nearby Wiscasset), and the entire Boothbay Harbor region.

Specific, broadly advertised promotions for Shore Hills Campground & RV Park are not consistently highlighted in public information beyond general operating details. However, like many locally-owned campgrounds in Maine, certain practices or policies can effectively act as special offers or provide value:

• Cash/Check Only Policy: While some might find this an inconvenience, it can sometimes be a sign of a business avoiding credit card processing fees, which could indirectly contribute to maintaining competitive rates. This is a common practice for smaller, "old school" businesses in Maine.
• Extended Stays: Campgrounds often offer better per-night rates for weekly or monthly stays compared to daily rates. It's always advisable for Mainers planning a longer vacation to inquire about these options directly.
• Off-Season Rates: While not explicitly detailed, many Maine campgrounds reduce their rates during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when demand is lower. It would be beneficial to contact Shore Hills directly to inquire about any off-season pricing for May-early June or after Labor Day through October 15.

Given the "old school" nature mentioned in reviews, it's highly recommended to call Shore Hills Campground & RV Park directly to inquire about current rates, availability, and any specific deals they might be running that are not widely publicized online. They may have unadvertised specials for loyal customers or for certain booking periods.

For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about Shore Hills Campground & RV Park, you can reach them directly using the following contact details:

Address: 553 Wiscasset Rd, Boothbay, ME 04537, USA

Phone: (207) 633-4782

Mobile Phone: +1 207-633-4782

Email: camping@shorehills.com

Website: www.shorehills.com

When contacting them, remember their "cash or check only" policy for payments. It's always a good idea to confirm this and any other specific policies or questions you might have before your arrival.

For Mainers looking for a convenient and authentic camping experience in one of our state's most charming coastal regions, Shore Hills Campground & RV Park in Boothbay offers a compelling option. While reviews highlight its "old school" feel and some specific areas that might benefit from updating (like bathroom stall size), its fundamental strengths make it a suitable choice for our local community.

The location is perhaps its strongest selling point for Mainers. Being "far enough from downtown Boothbay to avoid the traffic but close enough for a quick trip into town" is a golden combination. We understand the summer crowds in Boothbay Harbor, and the ability to easily access the town's attractions—from its famous footbridge and waterfront dining to unique shops and boat tours—without constantly battling congestion, is a major convenience. This allows us to enjoy the best of both worlds: the peace of a campground and the vibrancy of a popular coastal destination. The added bonus of a shuttle service further simplifies trips into town, a thoughtful amenity for any local vacationer.

The commitment to cleanliness, particularly with the daily trash pickup at each site, is a practical feature that genuinely enhances the camping experience. This attention to detail, even in an "old school" setting, shows a dedication to basic comfort and hygiene that Mainers appreciate. Furthermore, the variety of sites—waterfront, open, and wooded—caters to different preferences. Whether you have a large RV needing full hookups or prefer a classic tent site, Shore Hills aims to accommodate, making it accessible to a broader range of local campers. The pet-friendly policy also means more Mainers can bring their beloved companions along for the adventure.

It is important for Mainers to set expectations regarding the campground's atmosphere, especially concerning noise. While some reviews mention strict quiet hours, this can also be seen as a positive for those seeking a peaceful night's sleep. Understanding these nuances before arrival ensures a smoother experience. Overall, Shore Hills Campground & RV Park offers a solid, well-located, and fundamentally accommodating base for exploring the Boothbay region, perfect for Mainers who value convenience, cleanliness, and a touch of traditional charm in their coastal getaways.

Shore Hills Campground & RV Park

553 Wiscasset Rd, Boothbay, ME 04537, USA