Best Campgrounds near Essex, MA

Camping near Essex, Massachusetts, offers a great mix of nature, fun activities, and family-friendly environments. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a place to enjoy outdoor adventures, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to all kinds of campers.

What to do:

• Kayaking and Canoeing: Many campgrounds, like Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, provide easy access to lakes for kayaking. One reviewer mentioned, "Lots of great spots on the water, easy to put a kayak in from."
• Hiking: Trails abound in places like Bear Brook State Park Campground. A camper noted, "There are hiking trails throughout the campground," making it perfect for those who love to explore.
• Beach Days: If you’re near Salisbury Beach State Reservation, you can enjoy the beautiful ocean. One visitor said, "The ocean is absolutely gorgeous, clean, beautiful."

What campers like:

• Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Greenfield State Park Campground. A long-time visitor shared, "If you like large sites in a wooded setting with many private ones, this is the place."
• Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, such as Normandy Farms Campground, are praised for their cleanliness. One reviewer mentioned, "The bathrooms/showers are spotless with piped in music and hairdryers."
• Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Boston/Cape Cod KOA offer various activities for kids. A camper noted, "This is a nice campground with multiple site type options and activities for youth and young families."

What you should know:

• Pet Policies: Some campgrounds, like Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, have restrictions on pets. One reviewer pointed out, "Pets are NOT permitted in the campground or beach area during the summer season."
• Crowded Weekends: Expect busier conditions on weekends. A camper at Greenfield State Park Campground noted, "The weekend was packed! Our neighbors were playing karaoke till 11pm."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have extensive amenities. A visitor at Wompatuck State Park Campground mentioned, "There isn’t much to the RV sites but an electric plug."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for places like Normandy Farms Campground that offer playgrounds and organized activities. One parent said, "It has so many things for the kids to do."
• Pack for the Beach: If you're heading to Salisbury Beach State Reservation, bring beach gear. A family-oriented reviewer noted, "Great place to go camping; everything you need is right there."
• Plan for Mosquitoes: Be prepared with bug spray, especially in wooded areas like Bear Brook State Park Campground. A camper warned, "Our dog got covered in ticks, so watch for that."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Some sites may be tight. A visitor at Boston/Cape Cod KOA mentioned, "Our site was purely loose dirt with no grass or gravel."
• Bring Leveling Blocks: If you're in a spot like Normandy Farms Campground, be ready for uneven sites. One reviewer said, "We basically had to park sideways and use a lot of leveling blocks."
• Explore Nearby Attractions: Campgrounds like Sandy Pines Campground are close to local attractions. A camper noted, "Great location for Goose Rocks Beach and exploring Kennebunkport."

Camping near Essex, Massachusetts, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure.