Tent camping near Beverly, Massachusetts offers options beyond established campgrounds in neighboring towns. The coastal landscape features rocky shores, mixed woodland terrain, and elevations rarely exceeding 100 feet. Summer temperatures average 70-80°F with cooler nights, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for temperature drops into the 40s and occasional coastal fog.
What to do
Beach exploration: At Cape Ann Camp Site, campers can access nearby beaches for swimming and coastal activities. "Cape Anne is beautiful. Perfect location with access to Rockport - a beautiful place to visit, shop, eat & a great little trail with great views. Beach down the street was big, beautiful and low tide was unexpected as you could walk for ever," notes reviewer Ron C.
Wildlife observation: Natural areas around camping locations provide opportunities to see local wildlife. John S. mentions seeing "wild turkeys, deer, etc." while staying at Cape Ann Camp Site. The wooded settings create natural habitats for various New England wildlife species.
Island hopping: When camping at Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground, visitors can explore multiple islands via ferry. "During the day you can take small ferries to a variety of other islands to go swimming or explore. This is a great adventure for kids," shares Martha H. The inter-island ferry service is included with your main ferry ticket.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Many tent sites offer natural seclusion and shade. "We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area," reports Cristina P. about her stay at Cape Ann. The forested settings provide natural barriers between campsites.
Shoreline fires: Peddocks Island in Boston Harbor permits campfires below the high tide line. Jess G. describes their experience: "We ended up making a fire pit on the beach and a flat rock 'grill' to make our burgers. Sitting on the beach watching the sun set over Boston was awesome and made everything entirely worth it."
Clean facilities: While amenities vary by location, campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. Della S. mentions that "Cape Ann Campground is clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites. The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites. Clean bathrooms and pay showers."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Boston Harbor Islands fills quickly during peak season. Martha H. advises: "These sites book quickly, so you should try to book 7 months to the day in advance. That said, you can also look for last minute openings."
Water access considerations: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water. For Boston Harbor Islands, one reviewer notes: "Make sure that you bring enough drinking water and that you are ok with using the composting bathroom or going in the woods."
Seasonal availability: The best tent camping near Beverly, Massachusetts typically runs from May through October, with Camp Nihan Education Center offering tent sites during this period. Some locations like Boston Harbor Islands operate only "from June to Labor Day weekend."
Pay shower systems: Several campgrounds use quarter-operated showers. Rebecca S. mentions Cape Ann's "facilities are on the old side," while another camper specifies "25 cents per 5 minute hot shower is offered in the public restroom."
Tips for camping with families
Educational options: New Boston Recreation Area provides environmental learning opportunities. One visitor describes it as a "Great Outdoor Place! Nice scenery with fresh air and freedom sunshine!" The natural setting offers informal science education opportunities.
Child-friendly terrain: Some campgrounds feature terrain appropriate for younger campers. Michael V. reports that Camp Nihan's "group site is super close to parking and yet the terrain is rugged enough that it always felt like we were really in the woods."
Transportation planning: For island camping, plan your ferry logistics carefully. Jean C. explains: "Pack as lightly as possible and plan to carry or wheel it to your site. If you have a folding wagon, you may appreciate having it to carry items on and off the ferry and to your site on the island."
Tips from RVers
Site surfaces: RV campers should note ground conditions at various campgrounds. One reviewer mentions at Cape Ann Camp Site "The sites are all dirt. There is no concrete pads." This affects leveling and setup, particularly after rain.
Hookup availability: Cape Ann provides water and electric options for RVs. Lajaun C. confirms they "have water, sewer, and electric hookups. No wifi." Prices vary by amperage, with one camper noting "We paid $60 a night for a 30 amp spot with water."
Shower workarounds: If you rely on campground showers but don't carry quarters, plan accordingly. Ben E. shares his experience: "The showers require payment with quarters. I don't know how many quarters it takes because I don't carry change. So I washed my hair in the sink."
