Camping options near Hingham, Massachusetts range from oceanfront facilities to forest settings with varying levels of amenities. Sites in this region typically start at $25-35 per night for basic tent camping, while full-hookup RV sites can range from $45-80 depending on the season and location. From May through October, temperatures typically range from 65-85°F during the day with cooler evenings, making late spring through early fall the prime camping season.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: At Wompatuck State Park Campground, campers access extensive trail networks directly from their sites. "God access to some beginner flowy mountain bike trails," notes Mike M., while another camper mentions, "Wompatuck is a charming state park with numerous hidden trails known mostly to locals, making it ideal for low-traffic hiking, biking, and mushroom hunting."
Beach activities: The coastal camping at Winter Island Park provides water-based recreation options. "The beach is interesting with some tide pools as well as sand and warm water. Life guards were paying attention," mentions Lisa M. Another visitor reports, "While you're out on the islands, take time to explore... fly a kite, or go for a swim or kayak."
Cranberry bogs exploration: Several campgrounds near Hingham sit adjacent to working cranberry bogs and wetland areas. At Ponkapoag Camp, visitors can observe these distinctive ecosystems. "The area around Ponkapog is beautiful, showcasing a wetland climate that, while common, is an integral part of the Massachusetts ecosystem that many people don't even realize is within a stones throw," explains Kiye A.
What campers like
Proximity to Boston: Many campers value the easy access to urban attractions while maintaining a natural setting. "Winters island is a beautiful campground in Salem,ma... It a great feelings sleeping under the stars and waking up to the crisp air," notes Candace H. about Winter Island Park. The campground provides "good commute options into the city."
Off-season tranquility: At Lorraine Park Campground in Harold Parker State Forest, visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. "Great campground. Close to town, but feels like you are in the middle of nowhere!" explains Emanuela B. Another camper adds, "I actually camped here, while looking for apartments during my move to boston. It's about 45 min out of the city. Not too crowded."
Unique camping structures: Several campgrounds offer alternative accommodations. "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," reports Martha H. about camping at Boston Harbor Islands. Similarly, campers note "beautiful" yurts at Normandy Farms and cabins at multiple locations.
What you should know
Price variations for out-of-state visitors: Massachusetts state parks often charge significantly different rates for residents versus non-residents. "For out-of-state visitors, the cost might not be justifiable, with rates of $17-23 per night for in-state visitors and $60 for out of staters," notes a camper at Wompatuck State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly, particularly on summer weekends. "You can book 7 months to the day in advance. That said, you can also look for last minute openings," suggests one Boston Harbor Islands camper. Similarly, at Pinewood Lodge Campground, advance planning is recommended during peak season.
Rustic facilities at some locations: Several campgrounds offer more primitive experiences. "There is no electricity or running water," reports one Ponkapoag Camp visitor, while another notes, "This is rustic camping, no water or electricity and the bathroom is an outhouse and no showers." Similarly, some state park campgrounds have coin-operated showers or limited amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Normandy Farms Campground offers extensive structured activities. "They offer anything you could want. Spotlessly clean and wonderful employees. the pool is also great," reports Jean T. Another camper adds, "We figured we'd try it - outstanding. So many of our camping friends love this place."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated children's play areas. "The kids had a great time by the sea and the playground," explains a Winter Island Park visitor. Similarly, at Canoe River Campground, "activities for the kids, pool, arcade, snack bar" make it family-friendly.
Swimming options: Many campsites offer water access appropriate for different ages. "Nice pond for fishing or swimming, lots of activities and celebrations for every age group," explains Jim about Pinewood Lodge. Similarly, Ponkapoag Camp visitors note, "The kids can hang out in the clubhouse if it's raining or swim in the pond if it's hot."
Tips from RVers
Site selection importance: At many campgrounds, site characteristics vary significantly. "We chose a paved full hook-up pull thru with paved patio. Our site was easy to navigate in and out of and was definitely big-rig-friendly with ample space for our motorhome and tow car," notes Nancy W. about Normandy Farms.
Hookup limitations: Water and electric sites predominate at state parks, with fewer full-hookup options. "Sites offer electric hookups only," mentions one camper about Wompatuck, while others note varying levels of service throughout the region's campgrounds.
Seasonal considerations: Most RV facilities in the region operate seasonally. "It was quiet comfortable and plenty of room between campsites," reports SkipperAllen C. about Wompatuck in summer, while Boston/Cape Cod KOA notes a season from "March 15 to November 15," with most other campgrounds closing between November and April.
