Carlisle, Massachusetts sits at an elevation of 200 feet above sea level within Middlesex County, surrounded by a mix of hardwood forests and agricultural fields. The camping season typically runs from May to October, with summer daytime temperatures averaging 80°F and nighttime lows around 60°F. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, making early spring and late fall yurt camping near Carlisle, Massachusetts particularly appealing as these heated structures extend the camping season.
What to do
Hiking trails at Pearl Lake: Willard Brook State Forest offers connections to Pearl Lake State Park with several miles of hiking paths. "The trails in the park are nice and well maintained, with a nice beach and picnic area at the larger pond," notes a visitor to Willard Brook State Forest Campground.
Revolutionary War exploration: Historical sites around Hanscom AFB provide educational opportunities within short driving distance. "Close to minute man historical sites - revolutionary war historical trails and Ranger Station. Not too far from Boston," shares a camper at Hanscom AFB FamCamp.
Oceanfront activities: For those willing to travel 45 minutes east, Winter Island Park offers beach access and water sports. "We spent a weekend here on a tent site close to the beach. There was no parking at our site, but the parking lot was only 25 yards away. The beach is interesting with some tide pools as well as sand and warm water," reports a visitor at Winter Island Park.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Pawtuckaway State Park features lakefront camping with opportunities for paddling. "This is a fantastic little camp for if you want to go canoeing or kayaking or boating of any kind! It's set up of three islands and a large majority of the campsites are right on the water," explains a visitor to Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. "The campground is clean and well maintained, and the staff is delightful! We will definitely be staying at hanscom in the near future!" mentions a recent camper at Hanscom AFB FamCamp.
Stream-side relaxation: Some camping spots feature natural water features that provide ambient sounds. "Some shots have nice sound of river right behind the sites. No pond or pool for swimming," notes a visitor to The Pine Campground, referring to the brook running behind certain campsites.
What you should know
Reservations essential: Most yurt camping options near Carlisle require advance planning. "You may choose to leave from Long Wharf, near the Aquarium T stop on the Blue line, or from Hingham, with overnight parking available," advises a visitor to Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground about transportation to their yurts.
Military-only restrictions: Some facilities have limited access. "Military only campground. Working on improving the grounds and services available. Limited sites available off season. Summer season early May through end October," explains a camper about Hanscom AFB FamCamp.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from May through October. "We stayed here twice, once in September 2013 and then again in September 2018 and it is one of my favorites," shares a repeat visitor to Pawtuckaway State Park, highlighting the popularity of fall camping.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Waterfront locations provide swimming opportunities for children. "Winters island is a beautiful campground in Salem,ma. The kids had a great time by the sea and the playground. Their are wildlife like skunks, racoons do put food in car. Each site has a grill and shade," advises a family camper at Winter Island Park.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "Very small kids playground but nice," notes a visitor to The Pine Campground, providing an honest assessment of the facilities.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare for encounters with local animals. "Just a little challenging since it was on a downgrade and we were hit with a an unexpected 36 hour downpour. I forgot the daily visits from the ducks, like clockwork morning and dusk a family of ducks visited looking for grub," shares a camper at Pawtuckaway State Park about the wildlife interactions.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds near Carlisle have limited space for larger vehicles. "Sites are largely level, around a small, bisected loop with towering pines. Most of the sites are best suited to tents and small trailers (think teardrops and pop-ups), but a couple of sites can accommodate slightly larger units," explains a reviewer about Willard Brook State Forest Campground.
Hookup availability: Services vary significantly between campgrounds. "Clean, quite and inexpensive, what's not to like! Staying at #20 tent sight and loving it. No water on this site but there is electricity. Several options for bathrooms and all have hot running water," notes a visitor to Hanscom AFB FamCamp.
Parking considerations: Some sites require walking from parking areas. "We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area," shares a visitor to Cape Ann Camp Site, highlighting the terrain that can affect RV camping comfort.