Situated in Essex County, Massachusetts, Andover has several camping options within a 35-mile radius. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winters dipping below freezing. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through November, with limited year-round facilities available.
What to do
Golfing and fishing opportunities: At Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park in Derry, New Hampshire, campers can enjoy a day on the links. "The main attraction of this campground is the golf course of 9 or 18 holes. There is a pro shop, golf cart rentals, etc.," notes reviewer Christy C. The property also offers fishing opportunities, as Shawn C. mentions: "Fishing and swimming on property along with a club house."
Hiking nearby trails: The Blue Hills Reservation near Ponkapoag Camp provides extensive trail networks for day hikes. "Blue Hill is within hiking distance, and it is a favorite spot for seeing the sunrise. Apparently you can see all the way to Boston!" writes Rita M. The area features gentle terrain suitable for beginner to intermediate hikers with varied ecosystems to explore.
Berry picking seasonal activity: The wetlands around Ponkapoag offer unique foraging opportunities during summer months. Kiye A. highlights this activity: "lots of good berry picking and trails" near the camping area. This makes for a family-friendly activity during summer stays when wild berries are in season.
What campers like
Extensive amenities for extended stays: Normandy Farms Campground in Foxborough impresses visitors with its comprehensive facilities. One camper explains: "4 pools, fishing pond, lodge, trivia night, soccer, baseball, softball and frisbee golf and so much more. Full hook ups. Super long sites." The campground offers amenities comparable to resorts rather than typical camping facilities.
Dog-friendly accommodations: Pet owners appreciate the dedicated facilities at Normandy Farms. Nancy W. describes: "Some of the really good features are the huge dog park which has a dog washing station, water fountains for dogs and humans, agility-type obstacles for them to play on, dog kennels, and a bin with balls and Frisbees." The park makes traveling with pets significantly more convenient.
Seasonal events and activities: Family-oriented programming keeps children entertained throughout peak seasons. "We stayed here for a few nights when they celebrated Halloween 🎃. It is super easy to get around. They had tons of festive activities," reports Liz W. about Normandy Farms. These organized activities provide structure for family vacations beyond self-directed recreation.
What you should know
Rustic accommodations without utilities: Ponkapoag Camp offers a more primitive camping experience minutes from Boston. Stacy emphasizes: "It is rustic camping, no water or electricity and the bathroom is an outhouse and no showers." Campers must bring all water supplies and prepare for minimal facilities.
Site quality varies between campgrounds: Hidden Valley RV Park has inconsistent site conditions according to visitor experiences. Carry M. notes: "The water and electric were between our site and the next on one side and sewer between our site and the one on the other side. This made it difficult to place our trailer on the slanted site and reach all services. The site had very long grass, bare rock and mud."
Reservation requirements differ: Some facilities require advance planning through specific channels. Rita M. explains about Ponkapoag Camp: "Reservations are by mail only, although you can call the caretaker to confirm availability." Check individual campground policies well before your planned visit.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning for kids: Normandy Farms Campground offers structured recreation options for children. "They have multiple activities for adults and children. They have an adult only pool and other pools for both adults and kids," explains SANDIE B. This helps keep younger campers engaged throughout longer stays.
Cabin options for easier family camping: For those seeking alternatives to horse campgrounds near Andover, Massachusetts, cabin rentals provide convenience. Gordon C. reports about Ponkapoag: "Had an amazing stay, cabin was perfect and comfortable. Water was nice and fish were biting." Cabins typically include beds with mattresses, reducing equipment needs for families.
Close-to-home weekend trips: Proximity to Boston makes these destinations practical for short family outings. "This campsite is superlatively convenient if you live in the Boston area," writes Kiye A. about Ponkapoag Camp. Families can minimize travel time while still experiencing outdoor recreation.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Normandy Farms, premium sites offer additional conveniences. Nancy W. advises: "There are plenty of sites to choose from the 'premium' full hook-up (50 amp) to basic with just water and electric and many others in between. Both back-in and pull thrus are available as are sites with shade and full sun. Premium sites have paved patios while other sites are gravel."
Big rig accessibility: Larger RVs require careful planning at area campgrounds. Matt T. notes about Normandy Farms: "Campsites are big and well spaced. Bathrooms are best of any campground." The road infrastructure also accommodates larger vehicles, as Nancy W. mentions: "Roads are paved and plenty wide enough for big RV's to navigate."
Seasonal RV considerations: With no dedicated horse campgrounds near Andover, Massachusetts focusing specifically on equestrian needs, RVers should consider timing their visits. "We were here a couple years ago and told everyone we knew about it in the PNW never knowing if our big road trips would have us near Foxboro again," shares Jennifer H., highlighting the popularity of Normandy Farms during summer months.