Glamping options near Dover, Massachusetts range from full-service resort-style accommodations to more rustic experiences in state parks. Situated in Norfolk County, Dover sits at approximately 150 feet above sea level with rolling terrain and numerous conservation areas. The climate features warm summers with highs around 82°F and cold winters where temperatures often drop below freezing, affecting campground seasonal availability.
What to do
Explore Boston Harbor Islands: The Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground offers unique water-based activities from June through Labor Day. "This campground has 6 yurts and 6 tent sites. The yurts have bunk beds, a floor lamp, a table inside, a picnic table outside and a grill. Just getting to the island is a fun adventure," explains a visitor at Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground.
Visit historic sites: Located about 20 miles from Dover, Winter Island Park provides access to Salem's attractions. "You can explore the beach, launch a boat (paddle or motor), catch a sunrise, or explore the remnants of Fort Pickering. There's a trail around the park with markers, but they're not well maintained," notes a reviewer.
Fishing opportunities: George Washington State Campground offers freshwater fishing within the park grounds. "My family and I come here twice a season it's quiet it's calm and never crowded. There's fishing and hiking right in the park," reports a camper who enjoys the peaceful atmosphere.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Cape Ann Camp Site features secluded camping areas that appeal to tent campers seeking privacy. "We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area. Definitely recommend it!" shared one visitor to Cape Ann Camp Site. Another reviewer mentioned, "The sites are nice and wooded. All size RVs and tents are welcome."
Military history: Hanscom AFB FamCamp combines camping with aviation viewing. "We enjoyed our stay at Hanscom, loved staying right across from a runway!!! We loved watching planes come and go!" reported one military family at Hanscom AFB FamCamp. The campground provides "access to the base exchange and other facilities, but the quiet location is a recreational retreat centered around several indoor and outdoor gathering spaces."
Waterfront views: Multiple campgrounds feature pond or ocean views. "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," wrote a camper at Pinewood Lodge Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Reservations open 6 months in advance and sites fill quickly, so plan ahead if you're counting on a particular day," advises a camper about Boston Harbor Islands camping.
Shower facilities vary: Some campgrounds charge for showers. At George Washington State Campground, "Bathrooms were very clean with hot showers (bring quarters, $1.50 for 6mins)." Other campgrounds may charge as little as 25 cents for showers.
Transportation challenges: When visiting Boston Harbor Islands, "Getting to the island was a bit of a hassle. We live in Boston and took all of our gear on the T to the harbor by the aquarium. We then took the ferry to Georges Island. After that we waited and got on a much smaller island to Lovells."
Tips for camping with families
KOA activities: The Boston/Cape Cod KOA offers extensive children's programming. "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," notes a visitor to Boston/Cape Cod KOA.
Beachfront camping: Winter Island Park provides direct beach access. "We camped in tents and loved this campground. The restrooms were very clean and being cleaned constantly. The beach was beautiful and enjoyed walking on the larger rocks," reports a family who visited with children.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds host themed weekends for families. "We spent a few nights when they celebrated Halloween 🎃. It is super easy to get around. They had tons of festive activities. They have an indoor and an outdoor pool," shares a camper about their experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: Choose premium sites at Sutton Falls Camping Area for better amenities. "We were delighted when we learned we had the little peninsula of site P1 all to ourselves. Stunning views across the large pond, and serving as a wonderful halfway rest/respite on the journey from NYC to Belfast, ME," reports a camper.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require equipment adjustments. "The site we stayed at (47) took a little leveling to get right but it was pretty nice having views of the water," notes a camper at Sutton Falls Camping Area.
Hookup availability: Different tiers of sites offer varying amenities. "They have water, sewer, and electric hookups. No wifi," reports a camper about Cape Ann Camp Site. At other campgrounds, premium sites often include cable television with nearly 100 channels and reliable WiFi.
