Camping experiences near Cohasset, Massachusetts vary from primitive tent sites with limited facilities to more developed campgrounds within a 40-mile radius. Most local camping options require 30-45 minute drives, with the closest established campgrounds situated in neighboring communities like Saugus and Gloucester. The camping season typically runs May through October, with July and August bringing higher temperatures in the 80s and occasional evening thunderstorms.
What to do
Explore island trails: At Washburn Island Campsites — Waquoit Bay Reserve, campers access the island only by boat. "Small island with 10 camp sites (one group) all with views of the water very quiet at night. Fire pits at each site with wood on sale at the ranger hut," notes Tim C.
Visit nearby towns: The Cape Ann Camp Site provides easy access to coastal communities. "Cape Ann Campground is located close to Gloucester and Rockport. The campground is clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites," reports Della S. Sites serve as convenient bases for town exploration.
Swim in kettle ponds: Near Wellfleet Hollow State Campground, campers find natural swimming holes. Cal K. mentions, "Great Pond and Long Pond are both close by and lovely swimming. You can also walk to Duck Pond from the campground." These freshwater alternatives to ocean swimming offer warmer water temperatures and no waves.
What campers like
Natural isolation with urban views: Many campers appreciate the contrast of wilderness camping with city proximity. At Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites, Anna C. shares, "The sites are tucked away from the beach a bit into the brush which provides a nice relief from the wind. Fires are permitted at the beach and I was lucky to witness a really beautiful beach sunset."
Wildlife encounters: Campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. Cal K. notes at Wellfleet Hollow State Campground, "Wild turkeys moved through camp during my visit," while John S. mentions at Cape Ann Camp Site, "Spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc."
Family-friendly terrain: Camp Nihan Education Center offers terrain suitable for younger campers. Michael V. explains, "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."
What you should know
Reservation timing matters: Popular sites book quickly, especially island options. For Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground, Martha H. advises, "These sites book quickly, so you should try to book 7 months to the day in advance. That said, you can also look for last minute openings."
Transportation planning: Island camping requires additional logistics. Jean C. explains for Boston Harbor Islands, "Unless you have your own boat, you'll want to catch a ride on the ferries. Figuring out the schedule is the trickiest part, not least because they don't make the inter-island ferry schedule as readily accessible."
Site access varies: Many campgrounds have sites with different accessibility levels. Tom C. notes about Wellfleet Hollow, "The sites are well spaced so you don't feel too crowded and the terrain is a bit hilly so it's got a nice, rustic feel to it."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with bathroom access: Families with young children should consider campgrounds with better facilities. Will A. cautions about Wellfleet Hollow State Park, "First off, great spot to camp on the Cape for cheap. However, the booking site is a little confusing in terms of if your site will have room for a car. Some don't and you have to park in the parking lot which can be a haul to your site."
Look for combined activities: The best tent camping near Cohasset, Massachusetts for families offers multiple recreation options. Michael V. shares about Camp Nihan, "The camp is also adjacent to Breakheart Reservation, which had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty as well as bike trails and a range of different hikes."
Pack minimally for island camping: When camping on Boston Harbor Islands with children, Jean C. advises, "Pack as lightly as possible and plan to carry or wheel it to your site. If you have a folding wagon, you may appreciate having it to carry items on and off the ferry and to your site on the island."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Cape Ann Camp Site, Lajaun C. notes, "The sites are nice and wooded. All size RVs and tents are welcome. They have water, sewer, and electric hookups."
Seasonal considerations: Most RV-friendly campgrounds near Cohasset operate seasonally. Ben E. shares about Cape Ann, "We paid $60 a night for a 30 amp spot with water," making it one of the more affordable options for RVers in the region.
Limited big rig options: Most tent camping sites near Cohasset, Massachusetts cannot accommodate larger RVs. Jean C. explains about Wellfleet Hollow State Campground, "All of the conditions have led them to limit campers to tents and short trailers/campers only, with length <15' and only 1 unit/vehicle per site."
