Cape Ann sits on the Massachusetts coast, characterized by rocky shorelines and granite formations that shape its fishing community landscape. The region includes over 40 miles of shoreline, with average summer temperatures ranging 70-85°F. Campgrounds in the area are typically open from May through October, with many sites nestled among pine forests within 5-10 miles of coastal access points.
What to do
Beach exploration within minutes: Winter Island Park provides oceanfront camping in Salem with convenient beach access. "The beach was beautiful and enjoyed walking on the larger rocks. Also there's a beautiful lighthouse and some history plaques there," notes Heather P. This site offers more secluded camping than some other Winter Island Park options.
Tidal marshes for wildlife viewing: The Pines Camping Area borders marsh areas great for spotting local wildlife. "My son and I loved watching the baby field mice play in the marsh land," writes Heather B., who also warns campers to prepare for mosquitoes in these wetland areas. This pet-friendly campground provides access to The Pines Camping Area ecosystem.
Fishing opportunities: Hampton Beach State Park offers fishing options directly from the campground. "There's a jetty to sit on and fish from or watch the sunrise. I enjoyed the morning deep sea fishing trips from companies across the street," reports Jean C. Sites along Hampton River provide direct water access for anglers.
What campers like
Natural woodland settings: Cape Ann Camp Site features secluded wooded campsites with natural features. One visitor, Cristina P., explains: "It doesn't look like much but it is absolutely lovely when you actually pull in! We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area." The campground includes Cape Ann Camp Site boulder formations throughout.
Proximity to coastal towns: Campers appreciate how close campgrounds are to historic coastal communities. "Cape Anne is beautiful. Perfect location with access to Rockport - a beautiful place to visit, shop, eat & a great little trail with great views," shares Ron C. Most campgrounds offer convenient access to Gloucester, Rockport, and Salem within a 20-minute drive.
Wildlife encounters: Campsites provide opportunities to observe regional wildlife. "Very nice folks, great sites with A LOT of space between them. Spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc.," writes John S. Campers regularly report seeing wild turkeys, rabbits, field mice and occasionally deer throughout camping areas.
What you should know
Shower facilities vary greatly: Many campgrounds charge for showers. "Clean Bathrooms and pay showers (5 cents)," notes Della S. about Cape Ann Camp Site, while others might require different payment. Ben E. reports: "The showers require payment with quarters. I don't know how many quarters it takes because I don't carry change. So I washed my hair in the sink."
Seasonal operations: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Gloucester operate during limited seasons. Salisbury Beach State Reservation runs "early May to mid October," providing approximately 5 months of camping access. Campground reservations often fill quickly during peak summer months.
Noise and crowding levels: Campground experiences vary based on location and time of year. Paulina B. notes about Wompatuck State Park: "Both groups across from us were large families with many children, which detracted from the tranquility of our stay." Most sites have designated quiet hours from 10pm to 7am.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Lorraine Park Campground at Harold Parker State Forest offers multiple activities. "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," explains Migdalia G. The Lorraine Park Campground ranger programs also provide educational opportunities.
Beach access with amenities: Salisbury Beach State Reservation provides family-friendly beach camping. Sara D. shares: "Clean facilities, super quick access to the beach, friendly staff, sites are pretty close together with little separation between each other. RV & tent sites available. Our family loves both the ocean & camping so it is a win-win!"
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led programs. Migdalia G. mentions: "A ranger ran a program to teach about the area fauna which was pretty interesting for kids and adults alike." These programs typically run weekends during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV campers should carefully choose sites based on hookup availability and location. Betty H. advises about Tuxbury Pond RV Resort: "Our site was large with full hookups and the area was very clean, some sites in other sections are closer together. There are lots of seasonal campers so if you don't like that atmosphere this is probably not the place for you."
Hookup availability: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Gloucester offer varied hookup options. Lajaun C. notes: "They have water, sewer, and electric hookups. No wifi." Several campgrounds provide 30/50 amp service, though availability varies by site.
Driving access considerations: Some campgrounds have specific access limitations. Beach Rose RV Park staff "assist you in getting into your cement pad site and guide you down to your site," according to a reviewer. Several campgrounds note limited turning radius for larger rigs in certain areas.
