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Best Campgrounds in Massachusetts

986 Reviews

Massachusetts campgrounds range from forested state parks to beachfront destinations with varying levels of amenities. Notable options include Nickerson State Park Campground in Brewster, offering tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and yurts with boat access to nearby ponds, and Normandy Farms Campground in Foxborough, featuring 400 sites with comprehensive amenities including electric and water hookups, shower facilities, and trash service. The camping landscape includes everything from primitive tent sites in state forests to luxury RV resorts with full hookups and recreational facilities.

Camping seasons in Massachusetts typically run from April through October, with some facilities like Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground operating year-round. Most developed campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer months when demand peaks. State park campgrounds like Wompatuck, Harold Parker, and Myles Standish provide affordable options with varying levels of amenities, while private resorts offer more extensive facilities at higher rates. Weather conditions can significantly impact camping experiences, particularly near coastal areas. As one camper noted, "Absolutely love this spot and highly recommend if you're looking for a super private, true primitive camping experience. You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back."

Many campers specifically seek waterfront locations throughout the state, with several coastal and lakeside options receiving high ratings. Visitors particularly value clean facilities and peaceful surroundings, though experiences can vary significantly by location and season. Several campgrounds near Cape Cod provide convenient beach access, while inland options offer forest immersion and greater privacy. Families appreciate campgrounds with recreational amenities and organized activities. According to one visitor, "We had a great 4 night stay here in our TT. It's a more rustic campsite and doesn't have the bells and whistles of the bigger corporate owned campgrounds. There's plenty to do on the island itself so it's not an issue at all." Mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping represent the majority of options, with specialized tent-only or RV-only facilities being less common.

Best Camping Sites in Massachusetts (162)

    1. Nickerson State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    Orleans, MA
    Website
    +1 (508) 896-3491

    $22 - $55 / night

    "It is at the edge of the Cape Cod Rail Trail bike Path from where you can access both bay side and ocean beaches by bike. it is also walking distance to a bayside beach."

    "We even got the Massachusetts resident discount with his home address. When we arrived, it was a very easy check in. They gave us directions to our site and even to the store to buy fire wood."

    2. Normandy Farms Campground

    40 Reviews
    Foxborough, MA
    Website
    +1 (866) 673-2767

    $50 - $200 / night

    "The staff was positive and helpful and that made a difference for me. I traditionally dry camp or go for semi hooked up on purpose, I just like the quieter camping."

    "We were here a couple years ago and told everyone we knew about it in the PNW never knowing if our big road trips would have us near Foxboro again."

    3. Wompatuck State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    Hingham, MA
    Website
    +1 (617) 895-8245

    $17 - $23 / night

    "Ours (R002) was large, beautiful, and mostly surrounded by forest."

    "I chose a spot away from others and was glad I did. Behind me was nothing but quiet woods and a deer meandered through a couple times."

    4. Lorraine Park Campground — Harold Parker State Forest

    32 Reviews
    North Reading, MA
    Website
    +1 (978) 475-7972

    $17 - $35 / night

    "north of Boston and <5 miles from the interstate, Lorraine Park campground at Harold Parker State Forest provides ample on-site activities and also serves as a jumping off point for exploring the Massachusetts"

    "There aren't many campgrounds open in Massachusetts this early in the season, but Harold Parker State Forest was! I snagged a group campsite since we'd have four tents."

    5. Mt. Greylock Campsite Park

    30 Reviews
    Lanesborough, MA
    +1 (413) 447-9419

    $40 - $70 / night

    "Great access to Mt Greylock and LOTS of hiking close by. Staff was so accommodating-always willing to spend time giving recommendations."

    "Great family atmosphere w very positive neighbors and owners... Fantastic. 5 stars"

    6. Spacious Skies Minute Man

    29 Reviews
    Ayer, MA
    Website
    +1 (978) 772-0042

    $44 - $999 / night

    "The pool is huge and clean and there is a ton of seating around. The shop has everything you could need. There are horseshoes, can jam, basketball, and bocce. There’s a playground and a rec room."

    "Easily accessible by car to shopping, groceries, etc. but no hiking or good walking paths from the campground."

    7. Salisbury Beach State Reservation

    27 Reviews
    Salisbury, MA
    Website
    +1 (978) 462-4481

    $28 - $38 / night

    "However, you can’t beat the location and it’s a great place to go with a group."

    "The feel here is electric, and positive. Lots of RV’s that stay here all summer long. Feels like you are in a tight-knit community, very friendly folks, packed tightly together."

    8. Boston/Cape Cod KOA

    23 Reviews
    Middleboro, MA
    Website
    +1 (508) 947-6435

    "This is a busy campground due to its location . Easy access to Boston, Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, Plymouth, Newport, and many more attractions."

    "We selected this campground because of its proximity to family who we would be visiting. It was very convenient to Providence, Cape Cod, and Duxbury."

    9. Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground

    21 Reviews
    Sandwich, MA
    Website
    +1 (508) 888-0351

    $17 - $55 / night

    "I like this campground because it is close to home.  There isn't much to do here within the campground.  It has two areas.  The one nearer the camp entrance is smaller than the second. "

    "We have stayed here during our exploration around cape cod. It's a but farther away from the main location, but we loved the quiet and tranquility of this campground."

    10. Charge Pond Campground — Myles Standish State Forest

    20 Reviews
    South Carver, MA
    Website
    +1 (508) 866-2526

    $17 - $35 / night

    "My home away from home, I have been going to Myles Standish state forest to camp swim and critter catch since I was a little girl. Some of my fondest memories were made here."

    "Good access to surrounding new England towns."

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986 Reviews of 162 Massachusetts Campgrounds

  • Nancy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 7, 2026

    Peters Pond RV Resort

    Overpriced, mostly seasonal sites

    This park is mainly seasonal campers with a handful of transient sites. We were in a 50A, full hookup, pull thru that was plenty long enough for our 45’ motorhome and tow car. Other transient sites include shorter 30A sites and tent sites. (P9 is a really nice back-in site on the water and steps away from the beach, snack shack and bar.) 

    Our site was nicely shaded, level, and paved (as are all the roads). The utilities worked well and were located in the middle of the site.  The only negative was that the sewer was uphill and didn’t drain properly. Cable tv is included and we got about 60 channels. There was a wifi router right outside our window so the internet was good for surfing but not enough to stream. The campground was gated and you have a key card to get in.  

    This park has a lot of amenities– two beaches, pool, snack bar, bouncy pillow, basketball and baseball fields, snack bars, and scheduled activities.  The campground is located on Peters Pond but it is pretty small and not even large enough for me to want to blow up my paddleboard. That is great if you use them because you have to pay a$15/day resort fee. We used none of them so found the nightly price to be very high. Plus, the nightly rate for weekends is higher. We had a 25% discount code but our nightly weekend rate was still over$90/night. In my opinion the park could use some more attention as far as picking up trash, keeping grass around sites mowed, and cleaning the laundry facilities (which were pretty gross). We stayed in early June so the park was pretty quiet as kids were not out of school. But, I can imagine in the summer it gets really busy with as big as the park is. We were there over a weekend and it did get busier, and seemed everyone broke out their golf carts to ride around listening to music and drinking or entertaining their screaming kids.

    For the most part, it is big-rig friendly but, we did hit some trees and had to go out a different way to avoid low hanging branches. We probably would not stay again due to the price and our campsite was just o.k.

  • Teagan M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 6, 2026

    Wellfleet Hollow State Campground

    Love it here!

    Especially in the early days of summer. the camp sites can be tight depending on which one you pick. Potable water spigots all over the place. Connects right to the bike trail. They have a communal fire pit as well as individual fire pits at every site and wood to purchase in the office. $7 bucks as of June 2026. Bathrooms are clean and have flush toilets and an inside shower. Outside showers are roomy have hot and cold water and are generally nice. Some sites you have to walk to but a majority of them you can park on site. Came her to motorcycle camp at site 43. It’s a little snug for my tent and my bike but not too bad if your car camping it’s perfect. Have also stayed at 56 and it’s a little more secluded and quieter compared to 43 that has a spigot right next to the entrance. I’d definitely stay here again as it’s my 2nd time here. And for staying on the cape for the nightly cost it’s a steal!

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 6, 2026

    Quinebaug Cove Campground

    Eagles nest is nice

    If you stay in the eagles nest and get. Perimeter spot you overlook a lake, it’s nice and quiet. Everyone waves, nice lake to fish on. Front desk/owner? is a sweetheart.

  • Kaitlynn F.
    Jun. 6, 2026

    Douglas Forest RV Resort

    Great weekend.

    We spent the weekend here with our 4 kiddos ages 8,6,4, and 3. The kids had a blast. The bathrooms are spotless. They are in the process if renovating but that didnt interfere with our visit. They have a playground, pool, and yard games for the kiddos to use. Wish they had bigger grass sites. I think they will have some in the future.

  • Nancy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 30, 2026

    Horseneck Beach State Reservation

    Beachside camping, but expensive for non-residents.

    This is a great oceanfront campground located behind the dunes of Buzzards Bay. We booked early since the park only has 100 sites and we wanted a 50A site (not all sites have electric so pay close attention when you book). Our campsite has a picnic table and fire pit and was paved with a sand patio. The electric was good with both legs above 120 volts. The bathhouse was clean and is situated in the middle of the campground. There is a dump station which is easily accessible. Roads are one-way but the sites are angled so backing in was easy. Water spigots scattered throughout the campground, and we were close enough to one that we could have filled our tank, if needed.  There is no shade and it can be quite windy.  Dogs are allowed on the beach at the campground which is a plus.  The sunsets were amazing.  There is a small playground for kids but the beach is the draw. 

    The nightly price for Massachusetts residents is a bargain at $28 but it jumps up over $70 for non-Massachusetts residents. The beach is cobblestone/sand and there is a nice paved walking path that runs parallel. The beach by the campground is very rocky but there is another day use area to the west which gets raked and they remove all the rocks, but can be very busy. There is another hiking trail (about 2 miles) that you can walk to from the campground that goes out on a spit of land where you can walk back along the sandy beach. The beach access is easy since there are mobility mats connecting the campground to the beach. 

    The closest grocery is approximately 10 minutes away and there are a couple of restaurants closer. We took a drive to New Bedford to see the Whaling Museum and the National Park Service site– both were worth the stop. All in all, we really liked our stay at Horseneck Reservation and would return.

  • Nancy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 30, 2026

    Coastal Acres Campground

    Great location!

    This campground is a mix of seasonal and transient campers with sites able to accommodate all size RV’s. One of the best aspects of this campground is the close proximity to downtown Provincetown which is only a half mile away. We loved walking to town for shopping and restaurants especially since parking is very expensive($20-40/day). We camped in “the field” section which has long, level, full hook-up, back in sites. Note: other sections in the park are much closer together. The field is fairly open with some trees along the back edge and a few scattered in the sites but non that would interfere with satellite reception or backing in. We stayed in F9 which was a great site! Our patio was a large, open grassy area. The site was gravel and all hookups were well-placed. (The other site we really liked was F4.) We got 12 over-the-air television stations and our Verizon phone and hotspot worked well. They do have wifi which worked pretty well for surfing the internet. 

    There isn’t much in the way of amenities except bath houses and a small store. Everyone who worked there was very nice and friendly. 

    There is lots to do in the area and you are very close to Cape Cod National Seashore which we loved for hiking, biking, and hanging out at the beach. The Province Land visitor center is worth the time as we enjoyed the films and exhibits. There was a red fox family who had a den under the visitor center that we loved watching. Also, visit the lifesaving station nearby– very interesting and informative and they do live demonstrations of drills. Truro Winery (about 10 minutes away) is a fun place to stop and enjoy wine and food outside.

  • N
    May. 17, 2026

    Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground

    Good sites good walking trails

    All around good spot to camp the staff was all really nice the bathrooms were clean my one complaint was how bad the bugs were! Which is no fault to the park! Had a great time will probably go again!

  • Sue B.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 15, 2026

    Salisbury Beach State Reservation

    Love camping here!

    The first time we camped here was on Columbus Day weekend a number of years ago, and we got to see seals sun bathing on the beach. Are kids thought it was the greatest thing ever! The sites are a little close together and many of them are in direct sunlight , so that isn't the greatest , but if you have an awning, you should be good. We love that it is right on the water, and we can walk to the beach. We also appreciate that it is pet friendly, and our dogs love it too. Write down the street from camp, there is a street setup almost like a boardwalk, with arcades, live music, ice cream, food, and a carousel! There is also a bigger beach, and you are one twin away from New Hampshire. Lots to see and do here!

Guide to Massachusetts

Camping in Massachusetts offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there's something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking and Trails: Many campgrounds, like Wells State Park Campground, have great hiking trails. One camper mentioned, “We hiked pretty much all the trails in the park that weekend & did a night hike given by a guide.”
  • Water Activities: Campgrounds such as Lake Dennison Recreation Area offer swimming and fishing. A visitor said, “The lake is clean and the beach is clean and soft(ish).”
  • Wildlife Watching: Many areas are rich in wildlife. One camper at Otter River State Forest noted, “If you are looking to get away and unwind this is a great place to do it in.”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Pine Acres Family Camping Resort stated, “Super friendly staff, clean bathrooms, nice sites and a beautiful pond.”
  • Privacy: Many campgrounds offer spacious sites. A visitor at Pearl Hill State Park Campground mentioned, “The camp sites are very well spaced apart so you get plenty of privacy and it's very quiet.”
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. One camper at Partridge Hollow Campground said, “Simple clean friendly family run campground.”

What you should know

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at Willard Brook State Forest advised, “I suggest downloading maps before you head out because cell service is iffy in the area.”
  • Seasonal Availability: Some campgrounds are only open during specific months. For example, Otter River State Forest is open from mid May to mid October.
  • No Alcohol Policies: Certain campgrounds, like Wells State Park Campground, do not allow alcohol. A reviewer noted, “A surcharge which makes it $50/night for non-MA residents... will have us skip this place in the future.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One parent at Thousand Trails Sturbridge said, “The playground was a hit for our kids!”
  • Plan for Mosquitoes: Some areas can be buggy. A camper at Wells State Park Campground mentioned, “The mosquitoes here were something out of a Soviet lab.”
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Campgrounds may not have all the amenities you need. A visitor at Lake Dennison Recreation Area suggested, “I had to use my portable grate to make cooking over the live fire easy and pleasant.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds have restrictions on RV sizes. A reviewer at Pearl Hill State Park Campground noted, “You can get in here with a smaller RV, but the campground isn't built for larger units.”
  • Be Prepared for Tight Turns: Some campgrounds have narrow roads. A camper at Wells State Park Campground mentioned, “The driveway to site 38 was a mess. Tree limbs and brush invaded the drive.”
  • Look for Amenities: Check for electric hookups and dump stations. A visitor at Pine Acres Family Camping Resort appreciated, “They provide water, electric, showers, and septic pump trucks that come to you.”

Camping in Massachusetts can be a great experience if you know what to expect and plan accordingly. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best state parks for camping in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts offers several outstanding state parks for camping experiences. Clarksburg State Park Campground stands out for its consistently clean facilities and peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for families. Willard Brook State Forest Campground in north-central Massachusetts features level sites among towering pines and proximity to Damon Pond. Other notable options include Myles Standish State Forest with its multiple ponds, Wellfleet Hollow for Cape Cod access, and Shawme Crowell for its family-friendly environment. Most Massachusetts state parks prohibit alcohol, provide basic facilities including bathhouses, and require reservations, particularly during peak summer months. For the best experience, book well in advance for summer weekends.

Is dispersed camping allowed in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts generally does not permit dispersed camping on public lands. Unlike western states, Massachusetts has stricter regulations about camping outside of designated campgrounds. The state's high population density and limited public land contribute to these restrictions. Ponkapoag Camp offers a rare primitive camping experience that's accessible from Boston, but it's still a designated area, not true dispersed camping. Most public lands in Massachusetts require campers to stay in established campgrounds with proper facilities. For those seeking a more remote experience without crowds, look to less-visited state forests during off-peak times rather than attempting unauthorized dispersed camping, which could result in fines.

Where can I find backcountry or primitive camping in Massachusetts?

True backcountry camping options are limited in Massachusetts, but several locations offer primitive experiences. Tully Lake Recreation Area in Royalston provides remote-feeling sites with direct water access, managed by the Trustees of Reservations. For a more isolated experience, Otter River State Forest offers well-maintained but less developed sites. The Appalachian Trail corridor through western Massachusetts permits primitive camping at designated shelters and tent sites. Remember that even in these more remote settings, camping is only permitted in designated areas, not true dispersed camping. Most primitive sites require advance reservations, especially during peak season, and have minimal facilities like vault toilets but no running water or electricity.

How much does camping typically cost in Massachusetts?

Camping costs in Massachusetts vary widely based on amenities and location. State park campgrounds typically range from $17-35 per night for residents, with non-residents paying $5-10 more. October Mountain State Forest Campground represents typical state forest pricing, while Beach Rose RV Park in Salisbury demonstrates the higher-end private options that can reach $50-75 per night for RV sites with hookups. Premium locations near Cape Cod or popular vacation areas generally command higher rates, especially during peak summer season. Many campgrounds offer discounts for longer stays, off-season camping, or Massachusetts residents. Reservation fees ($7-10) typically apply when booking in advance through the state reservation system.

Where can I find backcountry or primitive camping in Massachusetts?

True backcountry camping options are limited in Massachusetts, but several locations offer primitive experiences. Tully Lake Recreation Area in Royalston provides remote-feeling sites with direct water access, managed by the Trustees of Reservations. For a more isolated experience, Otter River State Forest offers well-maintained but less developed sites. The Appalachian Trail corridor through western Massachusetts permits primitive camping at designated shelters and tent sites. Remember that even in these more remote settings, camping is only permitted in designated areas, not true dispersed camping. Most primitive sites require advance reservations, especially during peak season, and have minimal facilities like vault toilets but no running water or electricity.

Is dispersed camping allowed in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts generally does not permit dispersed camping on public lands. Unlike western states, Massachusetts has stricter regulations about camping outside of designated campgrounds. The state's high population density and limited public land contribute to these restrictions. Ponkapoag Camp offers a rare primitive camping experience that's accessible from Boston, but it's still a designated area, not true dispersed camping. Most public lands in Massachusetts require campers to stay in established campgrounds with proper facilities. For those seeking a more remote experience without crowds, look to less-visited state forests during off-peak times rather than attempting unauthorized dispersed camping, which could result in fines.

What are the best state parks for camping in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts offers several outstanding state parks for camping experiences. Clarksburg State Park Campground stands out for its consistently clean facilities and peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for families. Willard Brook State Forest Campground in north-central Massachusetts features level sites among towering pines and proximity to Damon Pond. Other notable options include Myles Standish State Forest with its multiple ponds, Wellfleet Hollow for Cape Cod access, and Shawme Crowell for its family-friendly environment. Most Massachusetts state parks prohibit alcohol, provide basic facilities including bathhouses, and require reservations, particularly during peak summer months. For the best experience, book well in advance for summer weekends.

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