Best Camping near Gloucester, MA
Camping near Gloucester, Massachusetts
Camping near Gloucester, Massachusetts, offers a unique blend of coastal beauty, historical charm, and outdoor adventure. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent, park your RV, or try glamping, the campgrounds around Gloucester provide a variety of options to suit every camper's needs. From the serene forests of Harold Parker State Forest to the bustling beachside vibes of Salisbury Beach, there's something for everyone.
In this guide, we'll explore what makes camping near Gloucester special, what activities you can enjoy, what campers love and dislike, and some handy tips for families and RVers. We'll also share insights from fellow campers to give you a real feel for the experience.
What to do
Camping near Gloucester means you're never far from exciting activities. Whether you're into hiking, beachcombing, or exploring historical sites, there's plenty to keep you busy.
For nature lovers, Lorraine Park Campground in Harold Parker State Forest offers beautiful hiking trails through deciduous and conifer forests. If you prefer the beach, Salisbury Beach State Reservation is perfect for a seaside escape with its sandy shores and ocean views.
For a mix of history and nature, Winter Island Park in Salem provides a unique experience with its historical sites and waterfront views. As Laura M. mentioned in her review, "The campground has good wifi that reaches throughout the campground, as well as good cell reception. We walked from there to town, but if that’s too far then there are Lyft and a trolley available."
What campers like
Campers appreciate the variety of settings and amenities available at the campgrounds near Gloucester. From the peaceful forest sites to the lively beachside spots, there's something for everyone.
Many campers enjoy the spacious and well-maintained sites at Cape Ann Camp Site. Emily T. noted in her review, "Cape Ann has everything you need for an easy, hassle-free camp experience. It’s right off the main road, checking in is quick and employees are helpful."
The proximity to attractions is another highlight. As Alan mentioned in his review of Lorraine Park Campground, "VERY close to Boston. What a local gem."
What you should know
While camping near Gloucester has many perks, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience.
Some campgrounds, like Tuxbury Pond RV Campground, can get noisy and crowded. Ana mentioned in her review, "The tent sites are way too close to each other, thank god we just had one other guy next to us but was very uncomfortable being too close, no privacy at all, and lots of noise at night from kids staying in RVs, screaming until 11pm."
Additionally, some campgrounds may have limited amenities or require extra preparation. For example, Randy F. pointed out in his review of Salisbury Beach State Reservation, "The bathrooms are pretty gnarly. It looks like they are cleaned every-other day. TP, trash, ...other things are all over the floors."
Tips for camping with families
Camping with family can be a rewarding experience, especially when you choose the right campground. Look for sites with family-friendly amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained.
Beach Rose RV Park is a great option for families. Barbara P. shared in her review, "Simple, clean, perfect pool set up, quiet and close to beaches and New Hampshire coastline."
For a more rustic experience, Lorraine Park Campground offers a peaceful setting with plenty of space for kids to explore. Cheryl B. mentioned in her review, "Stayed at site 56 with my tent in an RV site. The site was flat. Had running water, grill and fire pit. There was plenty of space. This site was very secluded."
Tips from RVers
RVers will find a range of options near Gloucester, from full-hookup sites to more basic setups. It's important to choose a campground that can accommodate your rig and offers the amenities you need.
Winter Island Park is a popular choice for RVers visiting Salem. Roger W. noted in his review, "The RV Field area is only good as a convenient spot to visit nearby Salem attractions or Boston (1 hr plus drive through heavy traffic)."
For those looking for a more spacious setup, Tuxbury Pond RV Campground offers large pull-through sites. Jeff & Steff’s Excellent Adventure shared in their review, "Section J sites are large pull-through sites and very comfortable."
In summary, camping near Gloucester, Massachusetts, offers a diverse range of experiences, from beachside relaxation to forest adventures. By choosing the right campground and being prepared, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable trip.
