Tent camping near Easton, Massachusetts ranges from secluded island escapes to wooded inland retreats within an hour's drive. The region's coastal campgrounds typically operate from May through October, with most primitive sites closing after Columbus Day weekend due to New England's cold fall nights. Many campsites require advance planning, with popular locations like Washburn Island often booking up six months ahead for summer weekends.
What to do
Beach exploration and swimming: Sandy Neck Beach Park offers primitive tent sites with beach access for swimming and sunset viewing. "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," notes one camper.
Island hopping: At Boston Harbor Islands State Park, use the inter-island ferry system to explore multiple destinations. "While you're out on the islands, take time to explore one of the others…look for sea glass on Spectacle Island and climb the hill for a view of the Boston skyline, explore the old forts and visitors centers, earn a Junior Ranger badge from the National Park Service, fly a kite, or go for a swim or kayak."
Foraging: Several campgrounds offer seasonal berry picking opportunities. "In mid-August we collected handfuls of blackberries as we explored Peddocks," reports a Boston Harbor Islands camper.
What campers like
Water views: Washburn Island Campsites at Waquoit Bay Reserve provides exclusive water access. "Small island with 10 camp site (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," shares one visitor.
Wooded seclusion: Cape Ann Camp Site offers natural surroundings with privacy. "We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area," notes a camper, while another mentions, "The sites are nice and wooded. All size RVs and tents are welcome."
Urban contrast: The unique position of Boston Harbor Islands creates an unusual camping experience. "This campground is a lot of fun but can get noisy at night," says one camper about this "oasis in the middle of the city."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many desirable tent sites require effort to reach. At Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites, "The hike in to the sites can be particularly difficult because it requires trekking through sand without any sun coverage and with all of your gear."
Reservation timing: Plan far ahead for summer camping. At Washburn Island, "Campsites can be reserved 6 months in advance so it is tough to get one during the summer months but great camping in May, September, and October as well."
Water management: For remote sites, water availability varies. At Boston Harbor Islands, "Camping requires some planning, but you get the benefit of a remote island with minimal company. Unless you book one of the 12 yurts on Peddocks island, the camping is rustic; you'll need to bring everything, including water."
Tips for camping with families
Short hikes for young children: Camp Nihan Education Center offers family-friendly sites that balance convenience with nature. "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. A recently renovated bathroom and shower facility makes clean ups easy."
Swimming options: Seek campgrounds with protected swimming areas. Camp Nihan is "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."
Alternative accommodations: Consider yurts for easier family camping with young children. At Boston Harbor Islands, "The yurts on Peddocks are great, providing shelter from the elements, bunks with mattresses, electricity, a ceiling fan, table with benches, and a grill."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Buck Hill Campground, large group areas accommodate multiple units. "All the sites are in large clusters (each can accommodate 10+ tents). Many of the sites are also along Wakefield Pond."
Self-contained requirements: Some beach locations require specific RV features. At Sandy Neck, "You need a sandy neck ORV pass and a self contained camper (toilet) to camp here, but it's very worth it. Right on the water, relaxing and sunny most of the time!"
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the region are seasonal. Cape Ann Camp Site operates from "May 15 - Oct 15," while Boston Harbor Islands is open from "June to Labor Day weekend," limiting RV camping options in cooler months.
