Tent camping options near Georgetown, Massachusetts range from family-focused resorts to rustic waterfront spots within a 45-minute drive. The region's seasonal climate works best for camping from May through October when temperatures typically remain above 50°F at night. Most campgrounds in the area sit amid hardwood forests with moderate elevation changes and soil conditions that drain reasonably well after rain.
What to do
Explore local beaches: Cape Ann Camp Site offers easy access to beaches in Gloucester where campers can spend the day swimming and exploring rocky shorelines. One visitor noted, "Beach down the street was big, beautiful and low tide was unexpected as you could walk for ever."
Visit nearby historic towns: Cape Ann Camp Site provides a great base for exploring coastal New England towns. According to a camper, "Perfect location with access to Rockport - a beautiful place to visit, shop, eat & a great little trail with great views."
Hiking in adjacent conservation lands: Camp Nihan Education Center connects directly to Breakheart Reservation which offers multiple trail systems. A visitor shared that 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."
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Most tent sites in the area feature natural buffers between campsites. At Cape Ann Camp Site, a reviewer mentioned, "Very nice folks, great sites with A LOT of space between them. Spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc."
Waterfront recreation: Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground offers unique island camping with waterfront access. As described by a camper, "Exploring the island was awesome. We found all kinds of bunkers and a brick house. We ended up making a fire pit on the beach and a flat rock 'grill' to make our burgers."
Natural setting with convenient facilities: The best tent camping near Georgetown combines natural settings with practical amenities. At Huttopia Southern Maine, a camper noted, "Grounds are manicured and aimed to be family friendly," with clean facilities while maintaining a natural atmosphere.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds near Georgetown operate from May through October. Cape Ann Camp Site specifically runs from May 15 to October 15, coinciding with the region's most favorable camping weather.
Reservation requirements: Weekend camping spots fill quickly during summer months. For Boston Harbor Islands, a camper advised, "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."
Varying shower facilities: Campground shower arrangements differ across the area. At Cape Ann Camp Site, "Showers require payment with quarters," according to a recent visitor, while other campgrounds may offer free showers or more primitive facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for children: Salmon Falls River RV Resort caters specifically to families with multiple water attractions. A camper reported, "If you have young kids this place is so fun! Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!!"
Easy-access adventures: For families with young children, Camp Nihan offers an ideal introduction to camping. A parent shared, "We went camping here with our SpiralScout Circle, kids aged 4-8. 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."
Pack-in preparation: For camping on Boston Harbor Islands, prepare to carry all gear from the ferry. A visitor advised, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site characteristics: RV campers will find varying site conditions near Georgetown. At Cape Ann Camp Site, a camper noted, "We paid $60 a night for a 30 amp spot with water," showing the pricing for partial hookups common in the area.
Level sites available: Finding level parking matters for RVs. A visitor to Cape Ann Camp Site mentioned, "We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area," which can save time during setup.
Campground amenities: Lost Boys Hideout offers upgrades to traditional tent sites that might appeal to those seeking comfort without an RV. A repeat visitor observed, "Nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site. Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!"
