Camping areas near Hathorne, Massachusetts primarily cluster along the Atlantic coastline, with most sites situated less than 20 miles from the shore. The region experiences typical New England seasonal changes with campgrounds generally operating from April through October, closing during harsh winter months. Most rv sites near Hathorne, Massachusetts experience strong coastal winds that can affect awnings and equipment, particularly at oceanfront locations.
What to do
Beach access options: Hampton Beach State Park Campground provides direct beach access with sites positioned near sand dunes on the south end of Hampton Beach. "It is basically a parking lot, but with full hookups and on the ocean. The ocean breezes are fantastic. One side of the campground is bordered by an inlet that fishing boats use to head out from the harbor," noted a visitor who appreciated the oceanfront location.
Fishing opportunities: At Winter Island Park in Salem, campers can fish from the jetty and watch sunrise over the water. "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," explained one visitor who took advantage of the coastal location.
Golf and camping combo: Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park offers camping with golf course access on its 1300-acre property. "The main attraction of this campground is the golf course of 9 or 18 holes. There is a pro shop, golf cart rentals, etc. There are 300 camping sites with full hookups," according to a camper who enjoyed both activities during their stay.
What campers like
Tent camping by the water: While RV camping dominates the area, tent campers can find waterfront options at The Pines Camping Area. "My son and I loved watching the baby field mice play in the marsh land," shared one tent camper, though they cautioned about mosquitoes: "The con of this camp ground was the mosquitoes, we went through 3 deep woods cans in just the first night."
Proximity to Salem attractions: Campers at Winter Island Park appreciate the convenient access to Salem's historic sites. "It's less than 2 miles from Salem and on the trolley line," noted one visitor. Another added, "I stayed one night here to experience Salem during Halloween at a tent site. Positives are access to Salem, Uber and Lyft are available though scarcer as the night gets later."
Clean facilities: Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort maintains high standards for cleanliness. "This is one of the cleanest, most meticulously maintained campground we have been to. So quiet and peaceful as well. Wifi service was excellent," reported one satisfied camper. Another mentioned, "The washer/dryer setup is immaculate with brand new equipment. Small washer $3.25, big washer $4.25, dryers $2 for 45 minutes."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds near Hathorne operate on limited schedules. Tuxbury Pond RV Campground runs from April 28 to October 15, while The Pines Camping Area operates from April 1 to Columbus Day. Winter Island Park's season extends from May 1 to October 31.
GPS navigation issues: Some campgrounds have reported navigation challenges. At Tuxbury Pond RV Campground, a camper warned: "A little tip about GPS: if you're using Apple Maps, it will likely take you to a turn that is not the campground entrance, there's even a hand-written sign on someone's lawn that has directions to the entrance."
Cell service variability: Cell phone reception differs between locations. One camper at The Pines Camping Area reported: "Forget about cellphone signal, it was 0." However, at Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort, visitors noted reliable WiFi: "Wifi service was excellent. We will definitely come back."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Beach Rose RV Park provides family-friendly amenities close to the coast. "Cute little campground about a mile from the beach. Clean and friendly staff. Kid friendly," noted one visitor. Another mentioned, "Great campground, though spaces are small, place is clean, nice pool and staff is very friendly, helpful and responsive!"
Weather considerations: Parents should prepare for coastal weather patterns. "Be careful of your awning as it is very windy," advised a camper at Hampton Beach State Park Campground. Another visitor noted, "There's no protection from the sun, so you may appreciate a shelter of some sort if you expect to be outdoors at your site during the day."
Entertainment options: Tuxbury Pond RV Campground schedules regular activities for families. One visitor described their experience: "There's a band setting up for their afternoon show. The live band was cool," and mentioned, "There is an 18+ comedy show but there was a children's movie being played on a big screen on the other side of the campground."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV sites near Hathorne, Massachusetts vary in size and arrangement. At Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort, one RVer noted: "Pull through sites, while close were arranged in such a way so that you are not next to the sewer hookup of your neighbor. A big plus for me." The campground offers both new and established sections: "The park recently added new 50-amp full hook-up sites (some of which are pull-thrus) so there are plenty of options for big-rigs."
Seasonal vs. transient camping: Many area campgrounds balance year-round and temporary campers. At Sea Coast, "Half of the park is seasonal campers (which is a lot more cramped and more junked up) and the other half is for transients. The two sides are separated by a tree line where the tent sites are located."
Utility considerations: Water quality and pressure varies between sites. One RVer at Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort reported, "Some of the best clear, clean, drinking water at high pressure we have come across. Great access to beaches, numerous eateries and shopping minutes away."
