Camping opportunities near Hull, Massachusetts range from coastal sites with ocean views to wooded inland settings within 35 miles of Boston. The region experiences mild summers averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season with frequent coastal breezes. Fall camping brings temperatures between 45-65°F with less crowded campgrounds and more availability at waterfront sites.
What to do
Water activities at coastal sites: Fourth Cliff Recreation Area offers beach access during low tide where campers can explore the rocky shoreline. "This is a great place for military members. Full hook ups, houses to rent, tent sites, and lots to do. Once the season closes very quiet, lots of stores in the area close," reports Larry N.
Hiking and biking trails: Wompatuck State Park Campground features extensive trail networks for mountain biking and hiking. "God access to some beginner flowy mountain bike trails," notes Mike M. The park's varied terrain accommodates different skill levels with mostly flat trails suitable for family outings.
Historical exploration: Winter Island Park provides access to Fort Pickering ruins and a lighthouse. "There's a beautiful lighthouse and some history plaques there," mentions Heather P. The park includes interpretive trails with markers describing the military history of the site, though reviewers note the trail markers "are not well maintained."
Island adventures: Boston Harbor Islands offer unique exploration opportunities with multiple islands accessible via ferry. "During the day you can take small ferries to a variety of other islands to go swimming or explore. This is a great adventure for kids," shares Martha H. Island-hopping passes cost approximately $20 round-trip from Boston's Long Wharf or Hingham.
What campers like
Proximity to beaches: Cape Ann Camp Site provides convenient beach access within walking distance. "Great beach access and friendly staff," notes Rebecca S. The nearby beach features extensive tidal flats at low tide that allow visitors to "walk for ever" according to Ron C.
Wooded privacy: Harold Parker State Forest offers secluded sites among mature trees. "The sites are huge with space in between. They keep the bathrooms very clean. There are lots of trails and ponds," reports Kelly F. Many campers appreciate the forest setting that feels remote despite being only 45 minutes from Boston.
Easy Boston access: Winter Island Park provides a strategic location for exploring Boston. "Great place for coming in and out of Boston," mentions Rick R. Campers can access the city via commuter rail located 2 miles from the campground, with shuttle service available during peak season.
Community atmosphere: Wompatuck State Park creates opportunities for family interaction. "Sites are more secluded than other camp grounds but can be a bit small. Bathrooms are nice and dumpsters available for trash. Family type of campground so not the quietest place," explains Tim L. The park balances privacy with social camping experience.
What you should know
Alcohol regulations vary: Rules differ between campgrounds with most state parks prohibiting alcohol. "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. However... be aware that alcohol and outside firewood are prohibited at this campsite," explains Paulina B.
Water access limitations: Boston Harbor Islands State Park requires campers to bring their own water supply. "Camping at Boston Harbor Islands requires some planning, but you get the benefit of a remote island with minimal company... you'll need to bring everything, including water," cautions Jean C.
Non-resident fee differentials: Some parks charge significantly higher rates for out-of-state visitors. At Wompatuck, "the cost might not be justifiable, with rates of $17-23 per night for in-state visitors and $60 for out of staters. Sites offer electric hookups only," according to Paulina B.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer. For Boston Harbor Islands, "These sites book quickly, so you should try to book 7 months to the day in advance. That said, you can also look for last minute openings," advises Martha H.
Tips for camping with families
Urban-adjacent nature experiences: Ponkapoag Camp offers rustic camping within 20 minutes of downtown Boston. "Great People, Great Times. Ponky is a hidden jem! Minutes from Boston, feels Miles away," shares stu L. The camp features a large pond suitable for swimming and fishing.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to see local wildlife. At Ponkapoag, "The kids can hang out in the clubhouse if it's raining or swim in the pond if it's hot," notes stacy. Winter Island Park has "wildlife like skunks, racoons do put food in car," according to Candace H.
Beach access with amenities: Winter Island Park combines beach access with facilities for children. "The beach was beautiful and enjoyed walking on the larger rocks... the beach is interesting with some tide pools as well as sand and warm water. Life guards were paying attention," reports Lisa M.
Pack for variable weather: Coastal campgrounds experience rapid weather changes. At Winter Island, "Camping on the oceanfront was a rare treat," says Cynthia K., though she recommends mid-week visits "to avoid the heavy traffic and large crowds" that frequent the beach areas during weekends.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Cape Ann Camp Site, "The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites," according to Della S. RVers should request specific sites when making reservations as layout and privacy vary considerably between campgrounds.
Hookup availability: Fourth Cliff Recreation Area offers "Full hook ups, houses to rent, tent sites, and lots to do," according to Larry N. The military recreation area includes water, sewer, and electrical connections suitable for larger RVs.
Seasonal considerations: Winter Island Park is open "May 1 to October 31" with limited off-season availability at most campgrounds in the region. Fall camping offers advantages with "the base itself is very clean and quiet with beach access during low tide," according to Larry N. at Fourth Cliff.
Dump station access: Harold Parker State Forest provides sanitary dump stations throughout the campground. "All sites have water which is a plus. All have a fire pit/box, charcoal bbq and a picnic table. Most of them are drive in," notes Migdalia G., making the forest a convenient option for RVers seeking basic amenities in a natural setting.
