Best Tent Camping near Gloucester, MA

The coastal region surrounding Gloucester, Massachusetts offers tent campers several established campgrounds with varying levels of amenities and natural settings. Cape Ann Camp Site, located at 80 Atlantic Street in Gloucester, provides wooded tent campsites with more privacy than their RV areas. This campground operates seasonally from May 15 to October 15 and features clean facilities with pay showers. For those seeking a more adventurous tent camping experience, Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground offers primitive tent camping on several islands accessible only by ferry, including Peddocks Island with six dedicated tent sites.

Tent sites at Cape Ann Camp Site are set on natural terrain with some areas prone to mud during rainy periods. The campground provides fire pits, picnic tables, and access to bathrooms with showers that cost 25 cents for five minutes. Cell service can be limited at the campsites, though WiFi is available at the office. For tent campers heading to Boston Harbor Islands, preparation is essential as most islands require bringing all supplies including drinking water. Composting toilets are available, but amenities are minimal. Reservations for these tent-only camping areas open six months in advance and fill quickly during summer months.

Tent campers frequently mention the wooded privacy at Cape Ann as a highlight. According to reviews, "The campground is clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites" that are "surrounded by trees so it felt pretty private." The campground's proximity to beaches is another advantage, with one camper noting it was "very close to a nice beach." At Boston Harbor Islands, the primitive tent camping experience requires more effort but rewards visitors with unique coastal views. One camper reported that "exploring the island was awesome" with opportunities to discover historic bunkers and create beach campfires. Wildlife sightings including wild turkeys and deer have been reported at Cape Ann, adding to the backcountry tent camping feel despite being in an established campground.

Best Tent Sites Near Gloucester, Massachusetts (5)

    1. Cape Ann Camp Site

    14 Reviews
    Gloucester, MA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 283-8683

    $36 - $44 / night

    "Cape Ann Campground is located close to Gloucester and Rockport. The campground is clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites. The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites."

    "Location works well. Very narrow road coming in after 128. More for smaller RVs and tent camping. Picnic tables could be replaced."

    2. Camp Nihan Education Center

    2 Reviews
    Saugus, MA
    20 miles
    Website

    "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."

    3. Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Hull, MA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (781) 740-1605

    $8 - $55 / night

    "Campground review: Camping at Boston Harbor Islands requires some planning, but you get the benefit of a remote island with minimal company."

    "This campground has 6 yurts and 6 tent sites. The yurts have bunk beds, a floor lamp, a table inside, a picnic table outside and a grill. Just getting to the island is a fun adventure."

    4. Country Barn Motel & Campground

    1 Review
    Nashua, NH
    44 miles
    +1 (603) 883-7924

    5. Crown Point Campground

    Be the first to review!
    Center Strafford, NH
    50 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 332-0405
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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Gloucester, MA

18 Photos of 5 Gloucester Campgrounds


Tent Camping Reviews near Gloucester, MA

473 Reviews of 5 Gloucester Campgrounds



Guide to Gloucester

Tent camping near Gloucester, Massachusetts offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the coastal charm of the area. With several well-reviewed campgrounds nearby, you can find the perfect spot to pitch your tent and unwind.

Tips for Tent Camping Near Gloucester

  • Cape Ann Camp Site provides a convenient location with quick access to local beaches, making it ideal for a relaxing getaway.
  • Winter Island Park is a great choice for those looking to explore Salem, as it’s just a short distance away and offers a unique camping experience on an island.
  • Camp Nihan Education Center is perfect for families, featuring picnic tables and a serene environment for educational activities.

Local Attractions for Campers

  • Enjoy the scenic views and recreational opportunities at Winter Island Park, where you can swim, explore old forts, and take in beautiful sunsets.
  • Visit the historic sites in Salem, easily accessible from Cape Ann Camp Site, which is located just a short drive away from the city’s attractions.
  • Experience the natural beauty of the area by hiking and exploring the trails around Camp Nihan Education Center, which offers a peaceful retreat in a wooded setting.

Some Prices for Tent Camping

  • Tent camping at Cape Ann Camp Site typically ranges from $40 to $60 per night, depending on the season and site amenities.
  • At Winter Island Park, expect to pay around $42 per night for a tent site, which includes access to essential facilities.
  • Camp Nihan Education Center offers affordable tent camping options, making it a budget-friendly choice for families and groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Gloucester, MA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Gloucester, MA is Cape Ann Camp Site with a 4.3-star rating from 14 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Gloucester, MA?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 tent camping locations near Gloucester, MA, with real photos and reviews from campers.