Tent and RV campers seeking overnight stays near Everett can choose from several campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The proximity to Boston makes these locations attractive for city dwellers needing quick wilderness access. Most facilities operate from May through October with varying levels of amenities and specific regulations regarding fires, alcohol use, and reservation requirements.
What to do
Beach activities: 5 minutes from Cape Ann Camp Site: Access nearby beaches for swimming, tide pool exploration, and shoreline walks. A camper noted, "Beach down the street was big, beautiful and low tide was unexpected as you could walk for ever."
Historical explorations: 35 miles from Everett: Visit Revolutionary War sites, presidential libraries, and maritime museums. One visitor to Spacious Skies Minute Man shared, "Concord is only 30 minute drive away with two full days of revolutionary historic sites, and famous people home tours such as Louisa May Alcott."
Island exploration: Accessible via ferry: The Boston Harbor Islands offer unique camping experiences with limited facilities. A camper reported, "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."
Wildlife viewing: Throughout the region: Early mornings provide opportunities to spot deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. One Cape Ann visitor mentioned, "Spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc."
What campers like
Proximity to urban amenities: Most campgrounds are within 45 minutes of Boston with public transportation options. A camper at Winter Island Park explained, "It's less than 2 miles from Salem and on the trolley line. This is one of two campgrounds located <25 miles from Boston with good commute options into the city."
Wooded seclusion: Many campgrounds offer forested sites that feel remote despite their proximity to urban areas. A visitor to Spacious Skies Minute Man described it as "a forested haven so close to Boston that you think you are in the country."
Clean facilities: Frequent bathroom maintenance is common at most established campgrounds. At Harold Parker State Forest's Lorraine Park Campground, a camper observed, "It was a quiet night and bathrooms where clean. Has spacious showers. Park rangers drive around campground often."
Water recreation: Ponds, lakes, and ocean access provide diverse water activities. A visitor to Harold Parker State Forest noted, "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."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially on summer weekends. Book early for weekend stays at Wompatuck State Park.
Limited winter options: Most campgrounds close between November and April. However, a few locations like Ponkapoag Camp operate year-round with cabin accommodations.
Diverse site privacy: Site separation varies significantly between campgrounds and specific site locations. One camper at Wompatuck State Park warned, "Sites are more secluded than other camp grounds but can be a bit small."
Military-only options: Some of the closest facilities to Boston restrict access. Hanscom AFB FamCamp is limited to military personnel and families but offers excellent amenities.
Varying shower facilities: Some campgrounds charge for showers or have limited facilities. A Cape Ann Camp Site visitor mentioned, "25 cents per 5 minute hot shower is offered in the public restroom."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Within most campgrounds: Several facilities provide playground equipment and open fields for children. A visitor to Hanscom AFB FamCamp observed, "Small camp ground, close to Boston, only 25 miles out. Kinda cool watching the airplanes take off and land with the small airport next door. No playground but a few open grassy fields."
Kid-friendly programming: Ranger-led educational activities are available at select locations. At Harold Parker State Forest, "A ranger ran a program to teach about the area fauna which was pretty interesting for kids and adults alike."
Swimming options: Supervised swimming areas provide safer water recreation. One Winter Island visitor reported, "The beach is beautiful and enjoyed walking on the larger rocks. Life guards were paying attention."
Indoor alternatives: Some campgrounds offer indoor spaces for rainy days. A parent staying at Ponkapoag Camp shared, "The kids can hang out in the clubhouse if it's raining or swim in the pond if it's hot."
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many older campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. A visitor to Wompatuck State Park mentioned, "Sites offer electric hookups only," while noting site sizing can be challenging.
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited at state parks but more common at private campgrounds. At Winter Island Park, campers can access "electric available on RV sites. Many of the RV sites are located in the main parking lot; others are in a field just to the right of the entrance."
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds with RV sites have on-site dump stations. One Winter Island visitor noted, "The dump station is not on site; ask at the office about arrangements for this."
Seasonal restrictions: Some campgrounds reduce RV site availability during shoulder seasons. At Hanscom AFB FamCamp, "Limited sites available off season. Summer season early May through end October."
