Within Bridgewater, Massachusetts and surrounding areas, camping options range from family-focused amenities to more rustic forest settings. Located about 30 miles south of Boston in Plymouth County, this region sits between 70-100 feet above sea level in a transitional zone between coastal and inland ecosystems. Seasonal temperatures vary dramatically, with summer highs averaging 82°F and winter camping options limited by New England's cold temperatures and frequent snowfall.
What to Do
Beach access for swimming and fishing: At Pinewood Lodge Campground, visitors appreciate the sandy swimming areas near their sites. "We were lucky enough to get a site by the pond. There was great views from our site of the pond. On the site there was also a path down to a little dock on the pond that you could sit and relax on," notes a camper named Laurie.
Trail exploration through pine forests: Myles Standish State Forest features extensive hiking and biking paths through typical New England woodlands. "There are several miles of bile trails that were very enjoyable," one reviewer mentions, while another adds: "Swimming, fishing, camping, hiking, trails, boating and more await."
Off-season activities for winter campers: Some campgrounds remain accessible during colder months. "We stayed here in October and it was a little too chilly for us to camp but we gave it a shot," says Gina M. about Shawme Crowell State Forest, noting that "the campground wasn't too big and the sites offered a lot of privacy, and some hiking trails within the campground."
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Many visitors highlight the spacious layout of certain campgrounds. At Barretts Pond Campground, a reviewer noted, "Cozy little loop at MSSF, with a lot of variation in quality across the lots, but generally good spacing and great views."
Water-based recreation options: Multiple ponds throughout the region offer swimming and fishing. "Nice clear pond to swim in. The pond water was very clear, seeing as they are fed from natural springs under the ponds," explains a visitor to Myles Standish State Forest.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Campground upkeep rates highly among reviewers. At Pinewood Lodge, Stephen R. notes it's a "Very quiet place, beautiful sites nice fireplaces bathrooms are close by and clean," though he adds he "Don't care for the coin operating showers."
What You Should Know
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared with blocks for leveling at some campgrounds. At Bourne Scenic Park, Nancy W. observed that "the majority of sites would be a problem for a motorhome to get level without the aid of blocks. In fact, some sites were ridiculously unlevel and took a scary amount of blocks."
Noise considerations: Traffic sound can affect certain campgrounds. At Shawme Crowell, one camper mentioned, "It is also very close to Rt 6 so the traffic noise is almost constant especially friday nights. Not recommended for light sleepers but very convenient."
Alcohol restrictions: State facilities have different rules than private campgrounds. "When you are sitting by the campfire, sometimes, chilling with a beer or another adult beverage is nice. Not in Massachusetts State Parks. No alcohol allowed," warns Randy R. about regulations at Myles Standish State Forest.
Tips for Camping with Families
Activity-focused campgrounds for children: Boston/Cape Cod KOA offers numerous child-friendly options. "The activities for kids is the draw for this campground for sure. My kids loved the train rides, movie night, flash light candy hunt, and arts and crafts," shares Amy G., who visited with three children.
Playground accessibility: Consider campground layout when traveling with young children. Samantha S. noted at Boston/Cape Cod KOA: "As we pulled around the office we saw all kinds of activities for kids. Bouncy 'pillow', pool, bounce pad, sluice, miniature golf, and a playground."
Seasonal programming: Summer months offer enhanced activities. "During the busy summer months there is a long list of activities ranging from yoga to kids games," noted one reviewer about Normandy Farms Campground, while another camper shared, "We stayed here for a few nights when they celebrated Halloween 🎃. It is super easy to get around. They had tons of festive activities."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose carefully based on noise preferences. About Boston/Cape Cod KOA, Janet P. advises: "I have belong to KOA's for quite a few years and I have learned that you really need to upgrade to the better campsites to enjoy your stay... I'll never book The basic campsite again I'll pay the few extra dollars to have a bigger site it's so worth it."
Hookup limitations: Some campgrounds have partial amenities only. At Shawme Crowell State Forest, a visitor noted: "No sites have sewer; however, grey water dump stations are randomly placed throughout the campground and can be accessed with a garden hose."
Seasonal availability and booking: Plan ahead for peak periods, especially for luxury camping options. Kirk S. points out that Boston/Cape Cod KOA is "a busy campground due to its location. Easy access to Boston, Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, Plymouth, Newport, and many more attractions. I recommend having reservations if you want to stay at this campground, between Memorial Day and Labor Day."
