Tent camping near Hingham, Massachusetts provides access to several unique sites ranging from coastal islands to inland forests. The region receives about 49 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush camping environments even during summer months. Many campsites in the area are only accessible during specific seasons from May through October due to New England's temperature fluctuations.
What to do
Explore historic forts: Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground offers camping near military structures worth investigating. According to Martha H., "The island is beautiful and has an old fort to explore as well as a lot of Rocky shoreline and trails. You can build bon fires and see gorgeous sunsets."
Swim in shallow ponds: Camp Nihan Education Center provides family-friendly water access. As Michael V. notes, "The camp is also adjacent to Breakheart Reservation, which had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty as well as bike trails and a range of different hikes."
Collect seasonal berries: During mid-to-late summer, wild berries grow throughout many camping areas. Jess G. from Lovells Island shares their experience: "Exploring the island was awesome. We found all kinds of bunkers and a brick house. We ended up making a fire pit on the beach and a flat rock 'grill' to make our burgers."
Fish in tidal waters: Many coastal camping locations permit fishing with proper licenses. Brandy G. mentions, "They offer great amenities, swimming, fishing, great family adventure. I would recommend however if I had the chance I would bring my own boat."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Cape Ann Camp Site offers secluded tent areas with natural screening. Della S. explains, "The campground is clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites. The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites."
Beach access: Waterfront camping remains a major draw for visitors to coastal areas. "This is one of the few places where you can sleep on the beach! It's a great place. The water is on the cold side but it's worth it," says Matt R. about Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites.
Stargazing opportunities: The distance from urban centers creates better night sky viewing at many sites. One camper mentioned, "Small island with 10 camp site (one group) all with views of the water very quiet at night."
Wildlife encounters: Natural areas support diverse animal populations. Ron C. from Cape Ann shares, "Very nice folks, great sites with A LOT of space between them. Spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book well ahead for summer camping. Tim C. from Washburn Island Campsites — Waquoit Bay Reserve advises, "Campsites can be reserved 6 months in advance so it is tough to get one during the summer months but great camping in May, September, and October as well."
Transportation challenges: Plan for multiple connections to reach island destinations. Jess G. explains, "Getting to the island was a bit of a hassle. We live in Boston and took all of our gear on the T to the harbor by the aquarium. We then took the ferry to Georges Island. After that we waited and got on a much smaller island to Lovells."
Shower facilities: Many campgrounds have basic or pay-per-use shower systems. Ben E. notes, "The showers require payment with quarters. I don't know how many quarters it takes because I don't carry change. So I washed my hair in the sink."
Site availability: Some locations operate on first-come systems rather than reservations. Anna C. cautions, "It's also a bit of a gamble because the sites are not reservable ahead of time. In order to secure a spot, you must show up at the park headquarters where sites are handed out on a first come first served basis."
Tips for camping with families
Pack light for island trips: When visiting island campgrounds, minimize gear. "Pack as lightly as possible and plan to carry or wheel it to your site. If you have a folding wagon, you may appreciate having it to carry items on and off the ferry and to your site on the island."
Consider terrain difficulty: Buck Hill Campground offers easier access for families. Greg R. reports, "The water is clean and fine for swimming with a few areas that make for easy entry into the water (including the 'beach')."
Arrange water delivery: Some remote sites provide water transport services. "A nice amenity is that the park staff will send someone to the sites to deliver 5 gallons of water for free as well as firewood for a small fee so you don't have to carry those resources."
Seek ranger programs: Many state parks offer educational activities for children. "Earn a Junior Ranger badge from the National Park Service, fly a kite, or go for a swim or kayak."
Tips from RVers
Site surface conditions: Many campgrounds lack concrete pads. Doris C. points out, "The sites are all dirt. There is no concrete pads. There is no WIFI. There is no sewer hook up however, near the street there is a 'dump station.'"
Seasonal availability: Most camping areas operate limited seasons. "Camped there May 20 - 25 and there were only 1-2 other sites being used."
Size restrictions: Larger RVs face access limitations at many coastal sites. "We paid $60 a night for a 30 amp spot with water."
