Tent camping options near Billerica, Massachusetts range from walk-in sites on secluded islands to lakeside destinations within a 45-60 minute drive. The region sits in the Merrimack Valley at approximately 120 feet above sea level, with typical summer camping conditions featuring daytime temperatures in the 70s-80s°F and cooler nights. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October, with limited winter camping opportunities.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing at Tully Lake: Located about 60 minutes west of Billerica, Tully Lake Recreation Area offers excellent paddling opportunities. "We rented kayaks right at the campground for a paddle around Tully Lake. Great trip!" notes Megan G. The lake allows for exploration of small islands and quiet coves, with rentals available directly at the campground.
Island exploration in Boston Harbor: Plan a day trip from Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground to discover multiple islands. "During the day you can take small ferries to a variety of other islands to go swimming or explore," says Martha H. The inter-island ferry system allows campers to visit different islands throughout the day before returning to their campsite.
Waterfall hiking at Doane's Falls: Near Tully Lake, hike the trails surrounding several cascading waterfalls. "If you'd like to hike with children, there is an easy hike close to the entrance, along Doane's Falls, a series of 5 waterfalls along an ascending path through a wooded area," recommends Nancy R. The trail runs approximately 1 mile round-trip and connects to longer hiking options.
What campers like
Natural privacy between sites: At Cape Ann Camp Site in Gloucester, campers appreciate the separation between sites. John S. notes the sites have "A LOT of space between them," while Della S. mentions "The campground is clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites. The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites." Most tent areas feature wooded surroundings that create natural barriers.
Cart-based camping system: Tully Lake Recreation Area uses a no-vehicle campground model that many campers prefer. "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around. It also made for a super quiet stay," reports Megan G. The campground provides wooden wheelbarrows to transport gear from the parking area to individual sites.
Beach access from campgrounds: Several campgrounds offer water recreation opportunities. Cape Ann campers can access nearby beaches, with Rebecca S. noting, "Great beach access and friendly staff." At Tully Lake, "You may choose to paddle your gear over" to waterfront sites, according to Jean C., who explains, "There's no formal swimming area and you can't swim at the boat launches, but you are able to swim from your campsites if you so desire."
What you should know
Limited amenities at Boston Harbor Islands: When camping at Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground, prepare for primitive conditions. "Camping at Boston Harbor Islands requires some planning, but you get the benefit of a remote island with minimal company... the camping is rustic; you'll need to bring everything, including water," warns Jean C. No food services exist on the islands, so all supplies must be brought in.
Shower facilities vary widely: Pay showers are common at campgrounds in the region. At Cape Ann Camp Site, "The showers require payment with quarters," notes Ben E., who adds, "I don't know how many quarters it takes because I don't carry change." Similarly, at Tully Lake, Nancy R. mentions "coin operated, hot showers, open 24/7."
Reservation timing matters: Popular campgrounds fill quickly. For Tully Lake, "The sites fill up weeks out (and can completely fill the day registration opens, which is date-dependent each year...)," cautions Kris M. For Boston Harbor Islands, Martha H. advises, "These sites book quickly, so you should try to book 7 months to the day in advance."
Tips for camping with families
Consider walk-in sites for younger children: Walk-in campgrounds like Tully Lake Recreation Area provide safer environments. "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around," shares Megan G. Sites are typically 50-300 yards from parking areas, with carts available for gear transport.
Easy hiking options for children: Look for gentle trails suitable for younger hikers. Nancy R. recommends Doane's Falls near Tully Lake: "If you'd like to hike with children, there is an easy hike close to the entrance, along Doane's Falls, a series of 5 waterfalls along an ascending path through a wooded area." The main path is approximately 0.5 miles one-way.
Simple activities keep kids engaged: Campgrounds often feature basic recreational options. "Volleyball and horseshoes are near the entrance," at Tully Lake, notes Jean C. For Boston Harbor Islands, Martha H. suggests: "This is a great adventure for kids. On Peddocks island there is plenty of drinking water available and a ranger station."
Tips from RVers
Tent sections offer better camping experience: At Cape Ann Camp Site, the tent areas provide more privacy than RV sections. Della S. notes, "The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites." This campground accommodates both styles, with tent sites typically situated in more wooded areas away from the main camping loops.
Limited hookup options near Billerica: Most tent-focused campgrounds within 30 minutes of Billerica lack full RV amenities. For those requiring hookups, Cape Ann Camp Site offers water, sewer, and electric options. Lajaun C. confirms, "They have water, sewer, and electric hookups. No wifi." Sites can accommodate various RV sizes, though the most spacious spots must be reserved well in advance.
Consider site location carefully: When booking an RV site, location impacts the camping experience. At Cape Ann, the sites vary significantly in terms of privacy and setting. Ron C. shared, "The campsite we loved; it was clean & secluded enough but close enough to others to meet & greet if you wanted." Request sites away from main roads for quieter stays.
