Cabin camping around Gloucester offers accommodations at multiple locations within a 30-mile radius. The region features coastal terrain with elevations generally below 100 feet and experiences mild summers with average temperatures between 65-80°F. Seasonal operations typically run May through October, with most facilities closing during winter months due to New England's cold temperatures and occasional snow.
What to Do
Beach access: Cape Ann Camp Site provides convenient access to beaches that are walkable from the campground. "Very close to a nice beach. Close to many towns and activities. We paid $60 a night for a 30 amp spot with water," notes Ben E. about this location.
Mountain biking: Bear Brook State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks for cyclists just a short drive from Gloucester. "We camped here to check out the mountain bike trails in the park and we're not disappointed on either count. The campground is nice and spacious, well kept and the staff is friendly. The biking trails were a blast," shares Eammon C.
Kayaking and canoeing: Several waterfront sites allow direct water access for paddling activities. At Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" according to J L.
Hiking: The area features numerous trail systems within a 45-minute drive. "There are at least three campground areas, one of which is on an island and has tent sites along the water. If possible, reserve those to ensure the best spots (the sunrise!), but all of the campground sites are nice," mentions Harry H. about Pawtuckaway State Park.
What Campers Like
Spacious sites: Many cabins are set in wooded environments with varying degrees of privacy. At Wakeda Campground, "We stayed in one of cabins and it served its purpose especially during a passing storm. It was nice to sit in the front porch and watch the storm," reports Kris S.
Family activities: Seasonal programming provides entertainment options during summer months. "Heated pool was great!" notes Stephanie about Minute Man Campground, adding that the "Staff was very helpful. Sites are a bit on the smaller side and not very private."
Natural settings: Most cabin accommodations feature wooded environments with diverse terrain. "We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area. Definitely recommend it!" writes Cristina P. about her stay at Cape Ann Camp Site.
Location convenience: Several campgrounds offer strategic positioning for area attractions. "Very easy to get into Boston by train. Level sites, quiet, and very clean restrooms make this a perfect spot for touring historic Boston, Concord, & Lexington," explains Charles K. about Minute Man Campground.
What You Should Know
Shower facilities: Most cabin locations have varying shower setups that may require payment. "Cape Ann Campground is located close to Gloucester and Rockport. The campground is clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites. Clean Bathrooms and pay showers (5 cents). The owners are very helpful," states Della S.
Site layouts: Cabin proximity varies significantly between locations. "Very nice folks, great sites with A LOT of space between them. Spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc.," John S. notes about Cape Ann Camp Site.
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly, especially waterfront options. "The sites are all dirt. There is no concrete pads. There is no WIFI. There is no sewer hook up however, near the street there is a 'dump station,'" reports Doris C. about Cape Ann Camp Site conditions.
Supply needs: Basic supplies should be brought from home or purchased nearby. "Nice little store on-site for anything you forgot. It is also close enough to stores if you need more. Very close to a nice beach too," explains Lajaun C. about Cape Ann Camp Site.
Tips for Camping with Families
Pool options: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities for children. At Winding River Campground, "We had a great time here camping with our kids and grandkids. River is not much to look at but the pool was great and there were great events like foam parties, DJ at the pool, pancake breakfast and live music to name a few," Lisa H. shares.
Playground access: Many locations include play areas within walking distance of cabins. "Two playgrounds, both were nice. Water slide was fun," notes Cassie G. about Winding River Campground.
Campground activities: Scheduled events provide family entertainment. "Site seems level for the most part, made of gravel. Heated pool, laundry, Wi-Fi that works, cable, 50 amp FHU. Roads are a little interesting to navigate, and definitely aren't the straight lines on their map!" explains Brittany V. about Minute Man Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Several locations offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Walking around we saw wild turkeys, bunnies, and a hummingbird. It would have been great if they offered a nature trail in the campground since the forest was so beautiful," says Pawsfuradventure T. about Wakeda Campground.
Tips for RVers
Site size considerations: Vehicle dimensions affect site selection at many locations. At Bear Brook State Park Campground, "I was in site 38 and found that the little loop to my campsite was tight to exit (I was towing a 14' teardrop, not a big trailer) and I had to be careful to swing wide at the corner," shares Jean C.
Utility access: Hookup quality varies between campgrounds. "Great employees, clean reliable power. No issues great spread out sites," reports Zachary W. about Wakeda Campground.
Seasonal timing: Some RV-friendly sites close during off-season months. "Check in is at the beginning of the 3-mile road to the campground and the camp store is a walk-up window only," notes Randy R. about COVID-era operations at Bear Brook.
Road conditions: Interior campground roads may present challenges. "Stayed for one week. If you stay for 6 days, the 7th is free. Nice pull thru site. Wooded and shady," mentions Molly B. about Minute Man Campground.
