Best Tent Camping near Boston, MA
Tent camping options near Boston, Massachusetts include several distinctive locations, from coastal sites to wooded inland areas. Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground offers a unique tent camping experience on multiple islands accessible only by ferry from either Long Wharf in Boston or Hingham. Cape Ann Camp Site in Gloucester provides wooded tent sites approximately 40 miles northeast of Boston, operating seasonally from May 15 to October 15. Camp Nihan Education Center in Saugus offers walk-in tent sites less than 30 minutes from downtown Boston, providing a surprising wilderness experience close to the city.
Tent campsites at Boston Harbor Islands require significant planning and preparation. Ferry transportation must be arranged in advance, with tickets purchased online before arrival. Campers must pack all necessary supplies, including drinking water for islands without potable sources. According to reviews, reservations open six months in advance and fill quickly, especially for weekend dates. Cape Ann's tent sites feature natural terrain with dirt roads that can become muddy after rain. Most tent sites include fire pits and picnic tables, with bathroom facilities available at all locations. Composting toilets serve the primitive tent camping areas on the Harbor Islands, while Cape Ann offers shower facilities for a nominal fee.
The tent-only sites on Peddocks Island provide a remote camping experience with views of the Boston skyline. One visitor noted that "exploring the island was awesome" with opportunities to discover old forts, rocky shorelines, and trails. Campers can build fires below the high tide line and watch sunsets over the city. At Cape Ann, tent campers report more privacy than RV sites, with one reviewer mentioning that "the sites are nice and wooded" with significant space between them. Wildlife sightings include wild turkeys and deer. Camp Nihan receives praise for its blend of accessibility and natural setting, with one camper noting that "the terrain is rugged enough that it always felt like we were really in the woods" despite being close to parking areas. Backcountry tent camping enthusiasts appreciate the relative seclusion these sites offer within easy reach of urban amenities.