Glamping options near Greenbush, Massachusetts exist on a stretch of coastal terrain between Boston Harbor and Cape Cod Bay. The region features kettle ponds formed by glacial retreat and coastal marshlands that create unique camping microclimates. Summer humidity peaks in July with temperatures averaging 80-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons offer cooler conditions with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 40s.
What to do
Beach exploration: 10-minute drive from Pinewood Lodge Campground to several Plymouth beaches with good swimming access. "Nice and quiet, very clean, and the workers are very personable and polite," notes a camper. The campground offers "nice pond views" with private dock access.
Historical sites: 35-minute drive to Salem from Winter Island Park where you can explore Fort Pickering remains and the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. "You can explore the beach, launch a boat (paddle or motor), catch a sunrise, or explore the remnants of Fort Pickering," writes one reviewer. The park features a trail system, though signage "isn't well maintained."
Military history: Half-day activity at Fourth Cliff Recreation Area where military members can explore former defensive positions. "The base itself is very clean and quiet with beach access during low tide," notes one visitor. This area requires military ID for booking.
What campers like
Clean, swimmable ponds: Campers at Pinewood Lodge praise the "nice and clean pond" that provides swimming opportunities without ocean currents. One camper described their site as having "great views from our site of the pond. There was also a path down to a little dock on the pond that you could sit and relax on."
Dog-friendly facilities: Myles Standish State Forest welcomes pets throughout the campground. "Sites are large and shady but don't have water or electric. The bath houses are clean and accessible," states one camper. The forest features "several kettle ponds" that are "very clear, seeing as they are fed from natural springs."
Commuting options to Boston: Several campgrounds offer transit connections. "This is one of two campgrounds located <25 miles from Boston with good commute options into the city," notes a Winter Island Park camper. "The commuter rail is 2 miles from the campground and during peak season a shuttle runs between the campground and Salem."
What you should know
Reservation timing matters: Many campgrounds book 6-7 months in advance, especially for summer weekends. At Boston Harbor Islands State Park, "Reservations open 6 months in advance and sites fill quickly, so plan ahead if you're counting on a particular day."
Transportation logistics: Access to island camping requires planning. "Figuring out the schedule is the trickiest part, not least because they don't make the inter-island ferry schedule as readily accessible," notes a Boston Harbor Islands camper. Check specific departure points as some islands are only accessible from certain locations.
Seasonal limitations: Many glamping facilities close after Labor Day. "Most glamping sites in the region require reservations well in advance, particularly for summer weekends," with some locations operating only "from June through Labor Day weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Boston/Cape Cod KOA offers extensive kids' facilities. "We saw all kinds of activities for kids. Bouncy 'pillow', pool, bounce pad, sluice, miniature golf, and a playground," reports one camper. Another notes their children "really enjoyed the train rides, movie night, flash light candy hunt, and arts and crafts."
Swimming safety considerations: Some campground ponds have limited supervision. "Life guards were paying attention," notes a Winter Island Park visitor, but other locations may have unsupervised swimming areas. Check for beach rules and hours before planning water activities.
Educational programming: Several campgrounds offer junior ranger programs and nature walks. At Boston Harbor Islands, children can "earn a Junior Ranger badge from the National Park Service, fly a kite, or go for a swim or kayak."
Tips from RVers
Site selection priority: At Normandy Farms Campground, premium sites include concrete pads and full hookups. "Both back-in and pull-thrus are available as are sites with shade and full sun. Premium sites have paved patios while other sites are gravel." Choose sites based on length of stay and amenities needed.
Off-season considerations: Many full-hookup sites remain available during shoulder seasons. "When we were there in October the campground was not very busy but we imagine that things get a little crazy when the park is full," notes a Normandy Farms visitor.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dumping. At Winter Island Park, "the dump station is not on site; ask at the office about arrangements for this." State forest campgrounds typically have central dump stations rather than at-site sewer connections.
