Camping options near Andover, Massachusetts include public and private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The area features a mix of forested state parks and privately managed facilities, with most campgrounds operating seasonally from May through October due to New England's cold winters. Average summer temperatures range from 65-85°F, making tent and yurt camping comfortable through fall when nighttime temperatures can drop to 40°F.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Bear Brook State Park Campground offers extensive biking networks throughout its 10,000-acre preserve. According to a camper, "Mountain biking is awesome here, can ride right off the campground and onto the trails!" The trail system accommodates various skill levels with both technical sections and beginner routes.
Kayaking on multiple ponds: Pawtuckaway State Park Campground features multiple water bodies perfect for paddling. "This a a fantastic little camp for if you want to go canoeing or kayaking or boating of any kind! It's set up of three islands and a large majority of the campsites are right on the water," notes a visitor. Rentals are available on-site during peak season.
Historical sites exploration: Hanscom AFB FamCamp provides access to Revolutionary War historical areas. One reviewer points out, "Close to minute man historical sites- revolutionary war historical trails and Ranger Station. Not too far from Boston." The campground's location allows for day trips to Lexington, Concord, and other significant historical locations in eastern Massachusetts.
What campers like
Oceanfront camping access: Winter Island Park provides direct water access not common in the region. "We spent a weekend here on a tent site close to the beach. There was no parking at our site, but the parking lot was only 25 yards away so it was not an issue," writes one camper. The park features both tent and RV sites with beach access.
Wooded, secluded tent sites: Cape Ann Camp Site offers natural settings with large boulders and tree cover. A reviewer notes, "Cape Anne Campground is located close to Gloucester and Rockport. The campground is clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites." Sites are set among natural rock formations that create natural privacy barriers.
Clean facilities with family bathrooms: Bear Brook State Park received praise for its bathroom configurations during peak season. "A few modifications. The bathrooms are family style. One family at a time. Check in is at the beginning of the 3-mile road to the campground and the camp store is a walk-up window only," explains a visitor from 2020, highlighting adaptations for privacy.
What you should know
Varying site privacy levels: Tuxbury Pond RV Campground has inconsistent site separation. "No separation between some tent sites, strong sewer smell in woman's restroom & on some campsites," reports one camper, while another mentions, "We stayed here for a week, our site was large with full hookups and the area was very clean, some sites in other sections are closer together." Request specific site numbers when booking.
Seasonal restrictions: Several campgrounds near Andover implement dog restrictions during summer. A camper at Pawtuckaway noted, "Tried to plan ahead this year and get a prime site to learn they don't allow dogs anywhere in the campground during summer months. I would of hoped for one loop but NH state parks are anti-dog I guess." Verify pet policies before booking.
Coin-operated showers: Many campgrounds in the region require quarters for hot showers. At Cape Ann, one visitor mentioned, "25 cents per 5 minute hot shower is offered in the public restroom." Bring plenty of quarters, especially at state parks where rates typically range from 25¢ to $1 for 5-minute intervals.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wakeda Campground provides recreation facilities for children. "Great employees, clean reliable power. No issues great spread out sites," states one reviewer about the general facilities, which include play areas surrounded by wooded sites. Book sites away from common areas if seeking quiet after 8pm.
Swimming beaches: Pawtuckaway State Park Campground has designated swimming areas with lifeguards during summer. A visitor commented, "The beach was clean. The small store is well stocked. You can rent kayaks here." The swimming area features gradual entry points suitable for younger children.
Yurt options for novice campers: Sunset Park offers alternative accommodations for those new to camping near Andover. "I only started overnight as I was passing thru. Very helpful staff, beautiful grounds covered in grass, unique setting," mentions a visitor. Yurt camping provides a comfortable introduction to outdoor experiences without requiring extensive equipment.
Tips from RVers
Boston access considerations: Hanscom AFB FamCamp provides convenient placement for exploring the greater Boston area. "Small camp ground, close to Boston, only 25 miles out. Kinda cool watching the airplanes take off and land with the small airport next door," notes one RVer. The military-affiliated campground (open to qualifying personnel) offers full hookups.
Seasonal occupancy patterns: Many RV parks near Andover maintain substantial seasonal populations. At Tuxbury Pond RV Campground, a camper observed, "There are lots of seasonal campers so if you don't like that atmosphere this is probably not the place for you." Seasonal occupants typically maintain decorated, established sites and may use golf carts throughout the facilities.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds provide on-site dumping. At Winter Island Park, a camper noted, "FYI - the dump station is not on site; ask at the office about arrangements for this." When booking shorter stays, verify waste disposal options and locations to plan departure procedures accordingly.
