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Best Tent Camping near Byfield, MA

577 Reviews

Several tent camping options can be found within driving distance of Byfield, Massachusetts, with Cape Ann Camp Site in Gloucester providing one of the closest tent-only areas. Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground also offers primitive tent setups on multiple islands, providing a unique camping experience within the coastal region.

Most tent campsites in the area feature dirt surfaces with varying degrees of levelness and tree coverage. Cape Ann Camp Site provides fire rings and picnic tables at their tent sites, though reviews note that "sites are all dirt" with "no concrete pads." Campers should budget for small fees beyond the campsite rental, as some locations charge for amenities. A visitor commented that Cape Ann has "25 cents for a 5 minute hot shower" in their public restrooms. Most campgrounds in the region maintain seasonal operations, typically open from May through mid-October, with Boston Harbor Islands only available from June through Labor Day weekend.

Tent-only camping areas near Byfield offer varied experiences based on location and amenities. The wooded sites at Cape Ann provide natural separation between campsites, creating a sense of privacy despite being relatively close to urban areas. A camper noted that the grounds feature "beautiful tent sites" that feel "secluded enough but close enough to others to meet and greet if you wanted." Areas like Boston Harbor Islands require more planning but reward tent campers with unique experiences. Tent campers frequently mention the coastal proximity as a major benefit, with beach access available near several campgrounds. Camp Nihan Education Center, though slightly farther from Byfield, offers a "perfect blend of rugged and convenient" tent camping experience with recently renovated bathroom facilities while maintaining a natural woodland setting.

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Best Tent Sites Near Byfield, Massachusetts (10)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Byfield, MA

36 Photos of 10 Byfield Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Byfield, MA

577 Reviews of 10 Byfield Campgrounds

  • Migdalia G.
    May. 29, 2019

    Lorraine Park Campground — Harold Parker State Forest

    Nice Wooded Campground in Awesome Area

    We stayed at Harold Parker State Forest Campground during Memorial Day Weekend. Reservation through Reserve America was a breeze. Check in till 9:00 pm was convenient. Checkout by 11:00 am but we paid for an additional night to be able to leave at night the day we checked out. Totally worth it!

    Nice large campsites. The sites’ privacy is very diverse. 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. All have a fire pit/box, charcoal bbq and a picnic table. Most of them are drive in. 

    Quiet hours from 10 am to 7 am. No alcohol allowed (although I didn’t see an actual enforcement of this rule and guess it’ll happen only if people act out). Rangers are constantly patrolling. Felt pretty safe at night. You can’t bring wood. Bundles are $5 each and it burns really well. 

    Lots of biking/hiking/walking trails, a nice small pond/beach, boat access, a few basketball courts, a volleyball court and a common huge fire pit added to the fun. A ranger ran a program to teach about the area fauna which was pretty interesting for kids and adults alike. 

    Bathrooms were fairly clean although small and showers were free! Some sites were right in front of a lovely pond and there were many group sites available as well. 

    The location is pretty good. Salem, Andover, Boston Are accesible while staying here. Close proximity to Richardson Ice Cream which you CANT miss if you decide to stay.  They have cheap but amazing ice cream, mini golf and battling cages which was entertaining for my whole crew. 

    It rained a lot during one night of our stay and the site (301) did not flooded at all. All sites seemed in pretty good shape the morning after as well. 

    Beautiful and will recommend to families with small kids, groups and couples too.

  • d
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Cape Ann Camp Site

    25 cents for a shower

    The aerial photos of this place are very deceiving. This camp ground is the foreground of the main house which, is situated on the top of the hill. The sites are all dirt. There is no concrete pads. There is no WIFI. There is no sewer hook up however, near the street there is a "dump station."  The camp ground is run down and unmaintained. Our site had a fire ring which, was filled with ash. Our first night we woke up to a trailer filled with smoke because, someone near by had a fire in 92 degree heat. Most campers are full time residents. There is no sight of them during the day light hours but, at night they are up and about on bikes and mingling with each other. 

    25 cents per 5 minute hot shower is offered in the public restroom. Some shady people immediate started to hover near the public restroom once we drove up the hill to use the public restrooms. For $70/nite for a view it's not worth it. I was glad to leave- very creepy.

  • Sable W.
    May. 16, 2018

    Lorraine Park Campground — Harold Parker State Forest

    Spacious, Quiet, Clean and Conveniently Located

    Five friends and I decided to compete in Questival, which came to Boston for May 11-12, 2018. There aren't many campgrounds open in Massachusetts this early in the season, but Harold Parker State Forest was! I snagged a group campsite since we'd have four tents. We had to set up after dark, so we wound up congregating in one corner of the group site. When we woke up we could see just how HUGE the group site was! We had 4 two-person tents; you could easily fit 3x that number of tents. PLENTY of flat ground to set up on, and we were far enough back from the road that we never heard or saw other campers arriving, even though we know most other Questival competitors stayed at this campground. It was about a 5 minute walk to the bathrooms and showers, and potable water was available right on the site. Even though it was early in the season and not very leafy, we could only occasionally see our neighbors' headlamps. There were 4 or 5 fire pits, 5 large picnic tables, and 3 driveways that could fit two cars each. Great value for the cost! We were pleased with the privacy, space, cleanliness, and amenities.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 28, 2023

    Greenfield State Park Campground

    Loved it here

    We stayed here for a night in mid October, as they were getting ready to close for the season, so more than half of the campground was closed off. But the part that we did see was awesome. Each site was huge, separated from its neighbor, private, mostly flat, and beautiful. No hookups in the campground, and sites are hit or miss with tree coverage, some sites may have enough opening for solar or starlink, but I wouldn’t count on it. 

    There are hiking trails throughout the campground, but our dog got covered in ticks so watch for that. There are water spigots throughout the campground and a dump station. Showers were free and nice and clean, and you can control the temperature and let the water run (no button to push). 

    The dump truck driver was there picking up garbage and I asked him about recycling and he said they have their own transfer station where the waste is sorted, so all recycling and garbage goes into the dumpster. 

    We paid $23 for a site because it was primitive season, but I think normally it’s $25. No other taxes or fees were charged. There’s a little store in the ranger office with basic supplies and gifts, ice cream, fire starters, ice, etc. There’s also a little free library exchange behind the office. And to top it off, we had cell service here. Great stay, highly recommend! Beware of ticks!

  • Jessica N.
    Sep. 13, 2021

    Greenfield State Park Campground

    Great Park, big sites

    Stayed for a weekend (1 night). Easy access to a bathroom (which was very clean). Quiet neighbors, everyone around us observed the quiet hours (10p-7a) and even during the day no one was super loud. Very respectful drivers made biking feel fun and safe for kids. Campers beach was lovely. Sure the water was a little weedy, but we didn’t mind. The lake is a great spot for kayaking (although it is a little bit of a walk from the parking lot with a heavy boat) and the sunset on the lake definitely didn’t disappoint. Nice partially shaded and level site with good access for backing in our small trailer. Playground, camp store, convenient check-in at office, firewood available for $6, lots of trails and fairly level for easy biking. State park camping (no hookups) but there’s a dump station near the exit and water spigots dispersed around the campsites. Absolutely would go again.

  • Jean C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 15, 2021

    Tidewater Campground

    Large campground near, but not on the beach

    First of all, the location is a little quirky and I think I only arrived once without a wrong turn! Watch the GPS carefully. That said, it’s very close to Hampton Beach and you can easily drive or bike over. The campground is parallel to US1, so there is some road traffic noise. Some of the tent sites overlook the marsh. The tent sites are definitely tighter than trailer sites. Some sites back up to each other and it takes a moment to understand where one ends and the next begins. 

    I was here early in the season and placed in a seasonal site with water/electric. Site was level. Neighbors were friendly. The bathroom was a short walk away and spotless. I did notice that in the tent areas, the main bathrooms are supplemented with portable toilets. Sites are mostly wooded, which will offer nice relief from the heat. It's a nice base for exploring the area.

    There’s a gated entry and turtle-speed limit that they take seriously. The pool was not yet open. There’s a small store onsite for ice and essentials. All the big box stores and a number of restaurants are nearby. For a change of pace from seafood, I picked up Shane's Texas Pit BBQ and brought it back to my site. 

    You may request a reservation online, but you have to confirm and pay for it via the phone. You’ll need to arrive before 9pm to check in. Bring $10 for a cash deposit on the gate card. Only 1 vehicle and 1 camping unit (tent or trailer) allowed on a site.

    Downside: They charge for showers, the amount and duration is unclear and the duration varies depending on which shower you choose! Given the rates they charge, this seems petty.

  • Meg T.
    Jul. 30, 2025

    Salisbury Beach State Reservation

    Seagulls hungry for Egg Rolls and sunsets galore!

    Stayed here with my partner for her birthday while we were up in the Plum Island/Rockport area. Beautiful ocean access and great facilities. We stayed in a site right next to a large bathhouse with showers, plentiful stalls, and water bottle fill-up and rinse off station. We were situated next to a kind family who lent us fire starter and offered us some of their snacks they were making when we arrived, while we were setting up we did lose some egg rolls to a hungry seagull but I think he needed them more than we did. Not very private and sites are packed close together, but that is what I expected based off the map! I would absolutely return again, this time to check out the beach and surrounding area!

  • Anna C.
    Oct. 15, 2019

    Pawtuckaway State Park Campground

    Ranger Review: Red Ledge Rebel Shell Rain Pants at Pawtuckaway State Park

    *CAMPGROUND REVIEW*

    This campground is definitely a dazzler and I was fortunate to visit on a quieter weekend. I was able to enjoy an especially picturesque sunset over the lake and I would definitely visit this spot again, especially with how accessible the campground is. There is a nice stretch of sandy beach at the campground as well as canoes and kayaks for rent. The convenience store at the campground had essentially everything you would need for a good camping trip. Definitely do your research on the different site numbers because some sites are much more private and scenic than others. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire pit as an added bonus.

    Pros: 

    -Within a short driving distance from the Boston area 

    -Lakefront sites available 

    -Canoe and kayak rentals available 

    -Well stocked convenience store 

    -Reasonable cell reception

    Cons: 

     -Can get busy during peak camping times 

     -Some sites have a lack of privacy

    *PRODUCT REVIEW*

    As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get products to test from time to time. During this trip, I took out a pair of Red Ledge Rain Pants. While it didn’t rain during my camping stay (great from a camper perspective, not so great from a reviewer perspective), I was able to try out the general fit of the pants. They have a nice stretch fit to them and a certainly one of the more stylish options as far as rain pants go. As is true for most waterproof gear, they run on the warmer side and don’t have a ton of ventilation so they may not be the best choice for hotter weather. Although I didn’t get to test out the pants in a camping setting, I did wear them a few days ago while making the 1.5 km evacuation route trek from my apartment to the flood shelter during one of the biggest typhoons to make landfall in Japan. After about 25-30 mins of walking in record breaking-ly heavy rain, the pants started to saturate around the knees and the upper thigh area started to get a bit soggy. That being said, this is probably the most extreme possible test setting and they did hold up reasonably well. Due to the aforementioned, I would recommend using these pants as a waterproof option when skiing/snowboarding in warmer weather where you still want a snow barrier but may not necessarily need the insulative warmth offered by actual snow pants.

    Pros: 

    -Stylish look 

     -Stretch fit 

     -Waterproof 

     Cons: 

     -Trap heat 

     -Not typhoon proof

  • Emma N.
    May. 24, 2018

    Greenfield State Park Campground

    Secluded Sites

    The night before hiking Mount Monadnock, my husband and I camped here. Monadnock State Park is about a 25 minute drive from the campground, and provides a beautiful hike. The RV sites at Greenfield State Park were relatively secluded, as it is a very wooded area. We visited very early in the season, so the main tent camping loops were blocked off for maintenance. Our site had a picnic table and a fire ring. We drove by a shower facility and a building with restrooms. The restrooms were still locked for the winter, so there were a few port-a-potties right outside- these were absolutely disgusting. It looked as though they had not been cleaned out all winter. Otherwise, the campground seemed nice! Just don’t forget to bring some bug-spray for those New Hampshire mosquitos!

Guide to Byfield

Tent camping options near Byfield, Massachusetts range from rustic forest sites to unique island getaways. Located in Essex County approximately 35 miles northeast of Boston, the area features coastal lowlands with mixed hardwood forests and salt marshes. Seasonal temperature variations make camping most popular from late spring through early fall, with summer highs averaging 80°F and overnight lows in the 60s.

What to do

Waterslide adventures: At Salmon Falls River RV Resort and Family Campground in nearby Lebanon, Maine, families can enjoy extensive water activities. One camper noted it has "multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!!" with particular emphasis on the "lazy river" being enjoyable for adults too.

Fort exploration: Boston Harbor Islands offers interesting historical sites across multiple islands. A camper described finding "all kinds of bunkers and a brick house" while exploring Lovells Island, making for an educational adventure beyond just camping.

Beach activities: Many campgrounds in the region provide beach access. A visitor to Cape Ann Camp Site mentioned the "nice beach nearby" that's within easy driving distance of the campground, perfect for swimming and water activities during summer months.

What campers like

Island solitude: Despite being near Boston, the Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground provides surprisingly remote camping. A reviewer noted, "you get the benefit of a remote island with minimal company" and enjoyed "building bon fires and see[ing] gorgeous sunsets" during their stay.

Natural separation: Campers appreciate the wooded settings that provide privacy between campsites. One visitor to Cape Ann Camp Site observed the grounds have "nice and wooded" sites with "a lot of space between them," creating natural buffers between camping neighbors.

Level tent areas: Finding flat camping surfaces matters to tent campers. A Cape Ann visitor specifically mentioned having "a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area," making tent setup easier and sleeping more comfortable.

What you should know

Shower fees: Some campgrounds charge additional fees for amenities. At Cape Ann Camp Site, a camper noted "showers require payment with quarters" and another mentioned specifically paying "nice cents per 5 minute hot shower" in the public restrooms.

Ferry planning required: When camping at Lost Boys Hideout, preparation is simpler with "nice new tents provided" at their Sleepy Hollow site, along with "improvements to the firepit, area all mulched" and even "some games and water are provided."

Booking timelines: Popular sites fill quickly, especially for unique experiences. A Boston Harbor Islands camper advised that "these sites book quickly, so you should try to book 7 months to the day in advance," though last-minute openings occasionally become available.

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly activities: Choose campgrounds with dedicated children's programming. Salmon Falls River Resort was described by one visitor as "kids paradise" with amenities specifically designed for younger campers.

Educational opportunities: Camp Nihan Education Center offers learning experiences in a natural setting. A parent who camped with children aged 4-8 called it the "perfect blend of rugged and convenient for small kid camping" and appreciated that "the 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."

Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer supervised swimming areas. Camp Nihan is "adjacent to Breakheart Reservation, which had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty" according to one parent, making water activities safer for families.

Tips from RVers

Site conditions: RV campers should note that many tent camping areas near Byfield have natural surfaces. At Huttopia Southern Maine, campers found "grounds are manicured and aimed to be family friendly," making for comfortable stays.

Hookup availability: Cape Ann Camp Site offers various utility connections for RVs. A camper noted they have "water, sewer, and electric hookups" available, though there's "no wifi" at the campground.

Seasonal considerations: Most RV-friendly campgrounds in the Byfield area operate seasonally. Salmon Falls River RV Resort operates from "May 15 - Oct 15" while Huttopia Southern Maine is open from "Mother's Day to Columbus Day," requiring off-season alternative arrangements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Byfield, MA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Byfield, MA is Cape Ann Camp Site with a 4.1-star rating from 16 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Byfield, MA?

TheDyrt.com has all 10 tent camping locations near Byfield, MA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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