Tent campsites near Lawrence, Massachusetts offer diverse camping experiences in New England woodlands. Most campgrounds in the region operate from mid-May through October, with temperatures ranging from 45-85°F during camping season. Winter camping options are limited to primitive sites at the Military Park New Boston Recreation Area, where temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Water activities at shoreline parks: Cape Ann Camp Site provides easy beach access for swimming and coastal exploration. "Nice beach nearby. Close to many towns and activities," notes Ben E. The campground serves as a practical base for exploring Rockport's shops and coastal trails.
Historic exploration: At Boston Harbor Islands State Park, campers can investigate old military fortifications on several islands. "The island is beautiful and has an old fort to explore as well as a lot of Rocky shoreline and trails," reports Martha H. Each island offers different historic structures, from brick houses to bunkers.
Swimming and nature observation: Families camping at Salmon Falls River RV Resort can enjoy multiple swimming pools and natural water features. "Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more," writes Samantha N., highlighting recreation options beyond simple swimming.
What campers like
Natural site features: Many tent sites incorporate existing landscape elements. "We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area," writes Cristina P. about her stay at Cape Ann Camp Site. The combination of trees, natural clearings, and rock formations creates sites with character.
Privacy between campsites: Lost Boys Hideout offers walk-in tent sites with good separation. "Nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site. Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched," notes Steve K., describing recent upgrades that enhance the camping experience.
Island isolation: Camping on Boston Harbor Islands requires more effort but rewards with seclusion. Tim S. simply states, "It's back open and lovely," confirming the park's post-pandemic reopening for island camping experiences away from mainland crowds.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds near Lawrence fill quickly during summer months. For Boston Harbor Islands, Martha H. advises, "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."
Transportation logistics: Reaching island campsites requires careful planning. "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," explains Jess G.
Facility conditions vary: Camp Nihan Education Center has recently renovated facilities. "A recently renovated bathroom and shower facility makes clean ups easy," writes Michael V., though other campgrounds may have more basic accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Choose terrain appropriate for children: Camp Nihan offers a balance of wild setting with convenient facilities. "The group site is super close to parking and yet the terrain is rugged enough that it always felt like we were really in the woods," Michael V. notes, making it suitable for younger campers.
Consider campgrounds with organized activities: Salmon Falls provides structured recreation options beyond traditional camping. "If you have young kids this place is so fun! Multiple pools, a water slide, high ropes, a jump pad, mini golf and more!!! My niece had so much fun!" shares Samantha N.
Look for guarded swimming areas: Several parks offer supervised swimming. Michael V. mentions that at Camp Nihan, "Breakheart Reservation had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty as well as bike trails and a range of different hikes."
Tips from RVers
Check site surface conditions: Cape Ann sites vary in quality and levelness. "The sites are all dirt. There is no concrete pads," reports doris C., providing important information for RV setup expectations.
Site seclusion differs for RVs vs tents: At Cape Ann Camp Site, Della S. observes, "The campground is clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites. The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites."
Bring adequate quarters for showers: Pay showers are common at campgrounds near Lawrence. "25 cents per 5 minute hot shower is offered in the public restroom," notes doris C. about Cape Ann, while others mention similar arrangements at other facilities.
