Best Campgrounds near Ayer, MA

Campgrounds near Ayer, Massachusetts range from state parks to private facilities, with several options accommodating tent, RV, and cabin camping. Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground, located on Ayer Road, provides a forested setting with full hookup sites and cabin rentals. Within a 20-mile radius, campers can access Pearl Hill State Park Campground, Willard Brook State Forest, and Harold Parker State Forest, each offering varying levels of amenities. Most campgrounds in this region maintain a wooded, natural setting while providing basic facilities such as fire rings, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails or water features.

Massachusetts state parks near Ayer typically operate seasonally from May through October, with limited winter camping options. Pearl Hill State Park and Willard Brook State Forest close in early September, while some private campgrounds remain open later into fall. "For being in an urban area, you don't feel it once in the campground. You might hear a distant train, but not much else. The location was perfect to see so much in the area," noted one visitor about Minute Man Campground. Cell service varies throughout the region, with stronger coverage at private campgrounds and more limited connectivity in state forest areas. Many campgrounds require reservations, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when sites fill quickly.

The camping experience in the Ayer area balances natural settings with proximity to historical attractions and urban amenities. Several visitors mentioned the convenience of using local campgrounds as a base for exploring Revolutionary War sites in nearby Concord and Lexington. Hanscom AFB FamCamp, though restricted to military personnel, received praise for its peaceful wooded setting despite being adjacent to a busy air base. State forest campgrounds typically offer more privacy between sites, with Harold Parker State Forest featuring "large sites, often with good separation from neighbors," according to feedback on The Dyrt. Water features appear in many campground reviews, with several properties offering swimming ponds, fishing access, or proximity to lakes. Most campgrounds maintain quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., creating family-friendly environments even on busy summer weekends.

Best Camping Sites Near Ayer, Massachusetts (133)

    1. Spacious Skies Minute Man

    28 Reviews
    Ayer, MA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 772-0042

    $39 - $999 / night

    "Spacious Skies Minute Man is a forested haven so close to Boston that you think you are in the country. There are so many cool things to do just a short drive away."

    "The location was perfect to see so much in the area (Minute Man National Historical Park, Boston, Salem, Plymouth, Cape Cod, Providence etc)."

    2. Pearl Hill State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    West Townsend, MA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 597-2850

    $17 - $35 / night

    "We really lucked out with getting one of a few sites left on Memorial Day weekend - after walking the campground, I think we would have chosen the same one again! "

    "It was like walking with fur on the bottom of our shoes. The dog also got needles stuck all over and we had to use our COVID alcohol gel to get the glue off. "

    3. The Pine Campground

    7 Reviews
    Ashby, MA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 386-7702

    "Small river/ brook rind behind the campground.   Some shots have nice sound of river right behind the sites.  No pond or pool for swimming."

    4. Lorraine Park Campground — Harold Parker State Forest

    33 Reviews
    North Reading, MA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 475-7972

    $17 - $35 / night

    "north of Boston and <5 miles from the interstate, Lorraine Park campground at Harold Parker State Forest provides ample on-site activities and also serves as a jumping off point for exploring the Massachusetts"

    "You could be tucked away from everyone or closer together depending on the site you choose but they are all pretty decent in size. All sites have water which is a plus."

    5. Hanscom AFB FamCamp

    10 Reviews
    Bedford, MA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (781) 225-3953

    "The campground offers RV sites, some with hookups, as well as more walk-in secluded tent sites as well as one yurt tent. The campground is peaceful and quiet, although adjacent to a very busy AFB."

    "Close to minute man historical sites- revolutionary war historical trails and Ranger Station. Not too far from Boston."

    6. Willard Brook State Forest Campground

    4 Reviews
    Ashby, MA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 597-8802

    $14 - $55 / night

    "This small state forest campground in north/central Massachusetts is just up the hill from Damon Pond. I suggest downloading maps before you head out because cell service is iffy in the area.  "

    "This campground is small - but its conveniently located near a larger city if you decide you want to venture back to civilization. The trails in the park are nice and well maintained."

    7. Field and Stream RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Hollis, NH
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 673-4677

    $47 - $80 / night

    "Great site right next to the water. Sites are clean and well equipped. Coin laundry with nice machine. Nice people."

    8. Lake Dennison Recreation Area Campground

    14 Reviews
    Foster Lake, OR
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 297-1609

    $17 - $35 / night

    "The loop closer to the entrance has a lot of private sites. Although if you have one closer to the main road, it is quite noisy with road sounds. But many of the sites in the middle are more quiet."

    "As a caveat, waterfront in this instance was more of a water view as the lake was on the other side of the campground road and a large open area with trees."

    9. Otter River State Forest

    14 Reviews
    Baldwinville, MA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 939-8962

    $17 - $55 / night

    "Swimming in a pond or a short drive to a bigger lake (camping pass covers both). One of my favorites. It's kind of a hidden gem in north central Massachusetts."

    "I loved it here, it was a great little campground for massachusetts"

    10. Pine Acres Family Camping Resort

    15 Reviews
    Rutland, MA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (508) 882-9509

    $70 - $115 / night

    "Miles and miles of country/forests surrounding pine acres, however pulling in you’ll soon realize how much goes on inside the campground."

    "Although the tent sites are a distance from anything, the main areas of the campground are fantastic. With a full calendar of events (some free, some cost $) you will never be bored."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 133 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Ayer, MA

798 Reviews of 133 Ayer Campgrounds


  • Lin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Spacious Skies French Pond

    Best Camp in the area

    I am enjoying this camp still, even after 6 months. Management is wonderful and attentive. They take great care of the whole camp and us campers. Fun events are scheduled on the regular!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Ashuelot River Campground

    Nice ‘n Easy campground

    We stayed for 3 days off season so not busy. Sites located along the river are wooded, field sites are very open great for seeing the stars at night. Sites have fire rings with excellent airflow for good burning with low smoke. Hook ups are in great condition for power, water, sewer. Showers and bath house on site. Laundry and game room at office area. Office staff was very helpful and they’re open later into the day til 7 PM. Good firewood and large bundle delivered for $15 to your site. We passed over this site on our first trip to the area but are glad we came here and we’re planning to return. Follow the website directions to get here as there are covered bridges in the area with low Clearance and low weight limits.

  • Kathleen S.
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Normandy Farms Campground

    Loud and crowded!

    Know what you are getting... This is a family resort that charges$20/per night, per person, OVER the two people rate. It is loud, crowded, with golf carts and kids running around. It is a resort campground with pools, frisbee court and etc... This is not a quiet, restful place to stay to visit Boston and the surrounding area or to visit family in town. Entry is gated and controlled. Want to bring your college daughter back after dinner- forget it,$20 for her and$20 her friend, for 1-2 hour visit after 7:00 PM at night! When we return, we will stay at Spacious Skies CG or the state park. The cost and inconvenience is not worth it!

  • Rae-Ann W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Ashuelot River Campground

    Another great trip to Ashuelot River Campground

    We spent another great weekend at the Ashuelot River Campground. We recently purchased a new-to-us camper and wanted to get in a trip or two before putting it away for the winter. This was our 2nd visit to Ashuelot.

    We were in site 59, a pull-through with water and 30/50 amp service. The site was level and easy to get into and park. We were in a fully wooded area on the left side of the campground, which we prefer. They have sites located in fully open areas, as well as some that are partially wooded and have river access. There is a nice mix.

    Having good weather, we took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other. It has been quite dry in the area, so they are experiencing a drought. However, a little rain in the week got the river moving a bit. We were able to enjoy a nice, slow drift around the campground.

    We thoroughly enjoyed our time again and will definitely be back.

  • S
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Salisbury Beach State Reservation

    Only a 4 because of out of stater price

    Campsites are close together, but the beach is amazing. Especially in the off season.

  • Mindie C.
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Hanscom AFB FamCamp

    Great stop

    Lovely campground. Clean, good WiFi. Kind campers. Will be back

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Woodmore Family Campground and RV Park

    Good Campground

    Stayed for over a week off season , mid September. Very quiet during the week , weekend is Party Time when the gang pulls in on Friday Night. Very loud until after 10:00 on Friday / Saturday. 50 percent or more is seasonal camp sites. Sites in back are ok with trees and different levels. Sites are a little closer than I usually find. Neighbors are very considerate on site privacy. Owners are exceptionally helpful and work hard to keep the site functioning and clean. Coin operated showers with hot water, mostly nice and clean except after a crowd gets packed and checks out Sunday AM. Laundry room takes quarters for machines. Small store at office which was open every day. Game room with wi fi. Pool , playground , volleyball area. Good size wood bundle for $10 , delivered directly to your site. Lake access with kayaks , some local hiking. Major grocery store nearby along with Walmart.


Guide to Ayer

Camping spots near Ayer, Massachusetts offer diverse experiences in central New England where hardwood forests meet glacial ponds. The region sits at elevations between 200-400 feet above sea level, creating moderate terrain suitable for both tent and RV camping. Fall camping season typically extends through late October at private campgrounds, while many state facilities close after Labor Day.

What to Do

Hiking trails: Pearl Hill State Park Campground provides access to several hiking options with varying difficulty levels. "There are some wonderful sites in this campground, but not all of them have privacy... I loved that there were trails to hike from right in the park; you could do a short one, or a slightly longer loop (2.5 hours depending on your pace) with some inclines and boulders to scramble up and over," notes Jenny M.

Historical exploration: Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground serves as an excellent base for Revolutionary War history. "Concord is only 30 minute drive away with two full days of revolutionary historic sites, and famous people home tours such as Louisa May Alcott. Lots of good coffee spots and restaurants in historic downtown Concord so spend a morning in this special city," shares Ann B.

Water activities: Lake Dennison Recreation Area Campground offers various water-based recreation. "The lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. There are ample trails for hiking and kids can ride their bikes," according to Bonnie B. Many campers mention the lake is ideal for paddle boarding with convenient lakeside camping.

What Campers Like

Proximity to Boston: Hanscom AFB FamCamp offers military families a wooded retreat with city access. "The campground is peaceful and quiet, although adjacent to a very busy AFB. In the immediate vicinity are the villages of Lexington and Concord as well as the Minute Man National Park and Walden Pond, so the campground makes a great basecamp for exploration of the area's rich culture and history," notes Janet R.

Wooded privacy: Many camping areas near Ayer feature pine forest settings that create natural separation between sites. At Pearl Hill State Park Campground, "The trees are primarily pine, which made for pretty comfy tenting. I loved that there were trails to hike from right in the park," shares Jenny M.

Streamside sites: The Pine Campground offers sites with natural sound barriers. "Most of the daily/weekly sites back up to a stream, which is nice. You can hear the water running, especially at night," reports Ian H., who enjoyed the peaceful setting so much they considered seasonal camping.

What You Should Know

Cell coverage: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Willard Brook State Forest Campground, Jean C. notes: "I lost cell coverage (Verizon) as I approached the campground, so you may want to ensure you have maps downloaded for offline use if you'll be out exploring." At other campgrounds like Pearl Hill, reviews mention "I reliably had 1 bar AT&T while at the campsite, but more as I got closer to the bathhouse."

Site variations: Sites differ greatly in size and privacy. At Lake Dennison, "The sites on the North side are spacious & quiet. The other side of the campground (east) has a lot of noise pollution from the nearby road which is used by logging trucks," warns Bonnie B.

Seasonal considerations: Most state park campgrounds close by early September. One camper at Pearl Hill noted: "Pearl Hill had closed for the season before an early October snowstorm," indicating the short season for state facilities. Private campgrounds typically remain open into fall with some offering year-round options.

Tips for Camping with Families

Swimming options: Pine Acres Family Camping Resort provides multiple water recreation options. "AWESOME pools (very kid friendly), parks, dog park, hiking trails and even sections off of the trails to find your own private beach on the water," shares Rob L. The campground also offers "a full calendar of events (some free, some cost $) you will never be bored," according to Brian G.

Playground access: When selecting sites at The Pine Campground, consider proximity to play areas. "We were pleasantly surprised to find this campground local to us. The staff is very friendly and willing to assist. Our site was across from the playground, and backed up to a stream. Playground was a bit older but it was maintained well, and the kids had fun," notes Joe D.

Activity planning: Several campgrounds host organized events for families. At Pine Acres, one camper mentioned, "Live music and food trucks were available. Pool and splash pad along with sandy beach," creating multiple entertainment options for families with children of different ages.

Tips from RVers

Site selection: For RV camping, site selection is crucial given the wooded terrain. At Minute Man Campground, "Site seems level for the most part, made of gravel. Heated pool, laundry, Wi-Fi that works, cable, 50 amp FHU. Roads are a little interesting to navigate, and definitely aren't the straight lines on their map!" explains Brittany V.

Campground access: Many campgrounds have limited access for larger rigs. At Willard Brook, "You can get in here with a smaller RV, but the campground isn't built for larger units with the turns and curves. They've only designated 3 sites for 35' rigs; everything else is 15-20'," cautions Jean C.

Seasonal variations: Field and Stream RV Park offers year-round camping with changing conditions. "They offer all year round camping. Great site right next to the water. Sites are clean and well equipped. Coin laundry with nice machine," reports Jeanine S., though noting there are "higher rates Oct 15-May 1."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Ayer, MA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ayer, MA is Spacious Skies Minute Man with a 4.5-star rating from 28 reviews.

What parks are near Ayer, MA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Ayer, MA that allow camping, notably West Hill Dam and Edward MacDowell Lake.