Gray Homestead Oceanfront Camping

For Mainers dreaming of the perfect coastal getaway, a place where the ocean breeze is your alarm clock and the sound of waves lulls you to sleep, Gray Homestead Oceanfront Camping stands out as an exceptional choice. Nestled on the picturesque Southport Island, just a stone's throw from the vibrant Boothbay Harbor, this family-run campground offers a truly unique and memorable camping experience unlike any other in the region. It's not just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a meticulously maintained, beautifully landscaped retreat that embodies the very essence of Maine's celebrated coastline.

Gray Homestead Oceanfront Camping is lauded by its patrons for its impeccable upkeep, thoughtful layout, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere created by the Gray family themselves. From seasoned RVers to those new to the camping scene, visitors consistently highlight the dedication of the management in ensuring a seamless and enjoyable stay. This campground offers a blend of serene natural beauty with convenient access to a myriad of local attractions, making it an ideal summer home or vacation spot for those looking to experience the best of Midcoast Maine. It truly is a destination that, as one reviewer aptly put it, "has to be experienced in person to really know what it is like."

Location and Accessibility

Gray Homestead Oceanfront Camping is ideally located at 21 Homestead Road, Southport, ME 04576, USA. Southport Island is a charming, quieter locale just south of the bustling Boothbay Harbor, connected by a swing bridge. This provides the perfect balance of serene island living with easy access to a wider array of dining, shopping, and recreational activities.

Reaching Gray Homestead is straightforward. From points north or south on Route 1, you will typically take Route 27 towards Boothbay Harbor. From Boothbay Harbor, you'll continue south on Route 27, which will lead you directly to Southport Island via the iconic swing bridge. Once on the island, well-marked signs will guide you to Homestead Road and the campground. The drive itself is scenic, offering glimpses of Maine's coastal charm. For those traveling with larger RVs, the reviews suggest that while the bridge to the island is narrow, it is manageable with careful navigation. The campground's proximity to Boothbay Harbor means a quick, ten-minute drive puts you in the heart of town, where you can explore art galleries, enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, embark on whale watching tours, or simply stroll along the bustling wharves. While public transportation options are limited in this rural coastal region, the straightforward drive and the campground’s well-known reputation make it an easily accessible destination for private vehicles.

Services Offered

• RV Sites with Full Hookups: Gray Homestead offers a variety of RV sites, many with full hookups including electric (30A or 50A), water, and sewer utilities. Some sites boast spectacular oceanfront views, while others are nestled in quieter, wooded settings.
• Seasonal and Weekly RV Sites: The campground caters to both seasonal campers looking for a summer-long retreat and those seeking weekly stays. This flexibility allows both long-term residents and vacationers to enjoy the facilities.
• Private Beach Access: Guests have direct access to two sandy beaches on the property, providing ample opportunity for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the oceanfront scenery.
• Restrooms with Hot Showers: Clean and well-maintained restroom facilities with hot showers are available for all campers, ensuring comfort during your stay.
• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry services are provided, which is a convenient amenity for both short-term and long-term campers.
• Dump Station: A dedicated dump station is available for RVs.
• Firewood and Ice Vendor: For convenience, firewood and ice are available for purchase directly at the campground.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Circles/Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire circle or grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires.
• Boat Moorings: For those who enjoy boating, the campground offers easy access to boat moorings, a significant advantage for water enthusiasts.
• Free WiFi: The campground provides free WiFi, allowing guests to stay connected while enjoying their coastal escape.
• Pet-Friendly: Gray Homestead is a pet-friendly campground, allowing up to two leashed pets per campsite (with some breed restrictions), making it easy to bring your furry family members along for the adventure.
• Rental Cottages: In addition to RV and tent sites, the property also features charming oceanfront cottages and apartments available for weekly rental, providing an alternative lodging option for non-campers or larger groups.
• Free Winter Storage: A unique perk for seasonal campers is the offering of free winter storage for their campers.

Features / Highlights

• Oceanfront Beauty and Charm: This is the only oceanfront campground in the Boothbay Harbor region, offering unparalleled proximity to the Maine coast with stunning ocean views directly from many sites.
• Impeccably Maintained Grounds: Reviewers consistently praise the campground for its exceptional maintenance, beautiful landscaping, and overall cleanliness, contributing to a premium camping experience.
• Spacious and Private Sites: Unlike many campgrounds where sites are tightly packed, Gray Homestead is noted for its ample space between sites, providing a sense of privacy and tranquility.
• Family-Run Legacy: The Gray family's personal commitment to providing an excellent camping experience shines through, with strong communication and a welcoming atmosphere that fosters a sense of community.
• Proximity to Boothbay Harbor: Enjoy the secluded island paradise feel while being just a short, scenic drive from Boothbay Harbor’s array of restaurants, shops, galleries, and attractions like whale watching and boat tours.
• Diverse Activities: Beyond lounging on the beach, guests can enjoy activities such as swimming, kayaking, boating, fishing, horseshoe toss, biking, and hiking. Lobsters can even be cooked for you or purchased live to cook at your site for an authentic Maine culinary experience.
• Long Season: The campground operates for an extended season, typically from May 15 to Columbus Day, allowing ample time to enjoy the Maine coast.
• Unique Layout: The thoughtful layout of the campground deviates from typical grid patterns, contributing to the feeling of privacy and natural integration.

Contact Information

Gray Homestead Oceanfront Camping

Address: 21 Homestead Rd, Southport, ME 04576, USA

Phone: (207) 633-4612

Mobile Phone: +1 207-633-4612 (This appears to be the same number, often listed as a main contact)

For reservations or inquiries, contacting the campground directly via phone or through their official website is recommended, as popularity often means booking well in advance, especially for desirable oceanfront or seasonal sites.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Mainers, Gray Homestead Oceanfront Camping isn't just a destination; it's an extension of our cherished coastal lifestyle. This campground offers a chance to fully embrace the iconic Maine summer right in our own backyard, without the need for extensive travel. Its unique blend of oceanfront beauty, meticulous upkeep, and genuine family hospitality creates an atmosphere that resonates deeply with local values.

The ability to choose between a full-hookup RV site overlooking the ocean or a more secluded spot, coupled with access to private beaches and boat moorings, caters to diverse preferences while keeping the quintessential Maine experience at its core. Being just minutes from Boothbay Harbor means residents can enjoy the vibrant cultural scene and culinary delights of a popular coastal town, then retreat to the peaceful tranquility of their island campsite. For those new to camping or seasoned veterans, the expert guidance and welcoming nature of the Gray family make it an ideal place to establish a "new summer home" or simply enjoy a relaxing week by the sea. Gray Homestead Oceanfront Camping truly offers a premium Maine coastal experience, perfect for locals seeking unparalleled beauty, comfort, and a true sense of belonging by the sea.