Tent camping sites near Hudson, Massachusetts offer diverse terrains from lakeside locations to wooded areas with varying levels of accessibility. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F, ideal for outdoor recreation. Campsites typically range from rustic walk-ins to more developed areas with basic amenities, creating different camping experiences within an hour's drive of Hudson.
What to do
Kayaking at lakefront sites: Tully Lake Recreation Area provides direct water access where campers can rent equipment on-site. "We rented kayaks right at the campground for a paddle around Tully Lake. Great trip!" shares Megan G., noting the convenience for water activities.
Hiking historic trails: Near Camp Nihan Education Center, the adjacent Breakheart Reservation offers diverse terrain. Michael V. recommends "bike trails and a range of different hikes" plus "a great shallow pond with life guard on duty" for post-hike swimming.
Island exploration: Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground offers unique maritime adventures. "You can explore multiple islands via inter-island ferries during their stay," notes Martha H., adding "This is a great adventure for kids. On Peddocks island there is plenty of drinking water available and a ranger station."
Disc golf near water: The area around Tully Lake features recreational options beyond swimming. Jean C. notes, "Near the dam is a larger boat launch with parking... A disc golf course is also near the dam and was seeing a fair amount of activity."
What campers like
Car-free camping environments: Tully Lake Recreation Area offers a distinctive experience without vehicles at sites. Nancy R. explains, "You park at the entrance, register with Ranger. Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site. This means no noise or disturbances from cars entering your camp sites."
Island camping privacy: Boston Harbor Islands provides solitude despite proximity to Boston. "Camping at Boston Harbor Islands requires some planning, but you get the benefit of a remote island with minimal company," reports Jean C., adding practical advice about reservations opening 6 months in advance.
Waterfront campfire options: Many campers appreciate fire-building possibilities at coastal sites. Jess G. shares this tip from Lovells Island: "We ended up making a fire pit on the beach and a flat rock 'grill' to make our burgers. Sitting on the beach watching the sun set over Boston was awesome."
Natural swimming areas: Federated Womens Club State Forest connects to recreational water spots. Jean C. notes, "If you continue past site 15, you'll head through Gate 36 out toward Soapstone Hill which offers a great view of Quabbin Reservoir and sunsets."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campsites have poor connectivity. Jean C. warns about Tully Lake, "Cell coverage is pretty close to absent or poor in most of the area, so download any maps you might want (driving, trail, geocaching) before you arrive."
Reservation timing matters: Prime locations book quickly, especially for summer months. Nancy R. advises, "There are some prime camp sites with direct access to the lake, but suggest you be prepared to call early in the morning of the first day State Campground reservations can be made."
Water transportation logistics: Cape Ann Camp Site provides coastal access but requires planning. Brandy G. notes, "we took the Ferry out of Hingam, only way to the Islands is by a boat... I would recommend however if I had the chance I would bring my own boat."
Coin-operated facilities: Many campgrounds require quarters for showers. As Ben E. points out at Cape Ann Camp Site, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Pack a folding wagon: For walk-in sites like those at Boston Harbor Islands, Jean C. recommends, "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. There may or may not be carts available on the island."
Consider camp layout for night trips: Lauren A. shares from experience at Tully Lake, "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night. Not our favorite place, but to be fair mostly based on our site and neighboring campers."
Look for shallow swimming options: Family-friendly water access matters with young children. Michael V. recommends Camp Nihan Education Center as "Perfect blend of rugged and convenient for small kid camping" with "a recently renovated bathroom and shower facility makes clean ups easy."
Plan for weather variability: New England camping conditions can change rapidly. Stacey W. from Tully Lake suggests, "The ranger station has all the necessary supplies and you can even charge your phone," which helps families stay prepared for unexpected needs.
Tips for RVers
Site surface conditions: Cape Ann Camp Site accommodates RVs but has natural terrain. Doris C. notes, "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.'"
Amenities vary widely: RV hookups differ across campgrounds. According to Lajaun C., Cape Ann Camp Site has "water, sewer, and electric hookups. No wifi. There is a nice little store on-site for anything you forgot. It is also close enough to stores if you need more."
Space considerations: RV sites may not have the privacy of tent areas. Della S. points out about Cape Ann Camp Site, "The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites. Clean Bathrooms and pay showers (5 cents). The owners are very helpful."
Beach accessibility: Many campgrounds offer RV access with proximity to water. Rebecca S. finds that Cape Ann "is clean but very rustic. Facilities are on the old side. Great beach access and friendly staff."
