Tent camping near Malden, Massachusetts offers access to coastal, woodland, and island environments within a 30-mile radius. Camping season in this region typically runs from May through mid-October, with most facilities closing during winter months when temperatures average 20-40°F. Several locations provide tent sites with varying levels of privacy and terrain challenges depending on proximity to metropolitan Boston.
What to do
Explore historic structures: At Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground, visitors can discover old forts and military installations. "Exploring the island was awesome. We found all kinds of bunkers and a brick house," notes camper Jess G., who stayed at Lovells Island.
Beach activities: Swimming opportunities exist at multiple locations near tent camping sites. "Cape Anne Campground is located close to Gloucester and Rockport. The campground is clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites... Close to a beautiful beach too," writes Della S.
Fruit picking: Seasonal berry picking adds a foraging element to summer camping trips. One camper at Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground mentioned, "In mid-August we collected handfuls of blackberries as we explored Peddocks."
Island hopping: When staying at harbor islands, campers can use inter-island ferries to visit multiple destinations. "During the day you can take small ferries to a variety of other islands to go swimming or explore," explains Martha H. about the Peddocks Island experience.
What campers like
Urban wilderness contrast: The juxtaposition of natural settings with city views creates a unique camping experience. At Camp Nihan Education Center, campers appreciate how "the terrain is rugged enough that it always felt like we were really in the woods," despite proximity to urban areas.
Evening atmosphere: Many campers highlight sunset and evening experiences. "Sitting on the beach watching the sun set over Boston was awesome and made everything entirely worth it," shares Jess G. about their Lovells Island stay.
Wildlife viewing: Tent camping areas near Malden offer opportunities to observe local fauna. At Cape Ann Camp Site, campers report "spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc."
Beach proximity: Easy access to shorelines ranks high with campers. "Beach down the street was big, beautiful and low tide was unexpected as you could walk for ever," notes Ron C. about Cape Ann.
What you should know
Transportation logistics: Access to island camping requires 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.
Reservation timing: Securing sites requires advance planning at popular locations. 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."
Water availability: Water access varies significantly between campgrounds. At Military Park New Boston Air Force Station New Boston Recreation Area, campers should bring their own supply, while other locations may offer potable water sources.
Shower facilities: When available, showers at campgrounds near Malden may require quarters. "25 cents per 5 minute hot shower is offered in the public restroom," notes one camper about Cape Ann Camp Site.
Tips for camping with families
Consider age-appropriate hiking: Breakheart Reservation adjacent to Camp Nihan offers trails suited for various age groups. Michael V. notes the area has "a range of different hikes" making it suitable for children aged 4-8.
Junior Ranger opportunities: Educational activities enhance camping experiences for children. At Buck Hill Campground, the scout-oriented facilities provide structured outdoor learning spaces. Greg R. describes it as "a scouting campground (Cub Scout). All the sites are in large clusters (each can accommodate 10+ tents)."
Pack transportation tools: Bringing equipment to move gear at island locations helps families. "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," advises one Boston Harbor Islands camper.
Swimming safety considerations: Varied water access points require different safety approaches. Greg R. notes at Buck Hill Campground, "There's a small somewhat sandy area that perhaps used to be a beach of sorts, though no lifeguards or anything. The water is clean and fine for swimming with a few areas that make for easy entry into the water."
Tips from RVers
Site surface preparation: At Cape Ann Camp Site, RVers should note "the sites are all dirt. There is no concrete pads," according to doris C., making leveling and stabilization important considerations.
Hookup locations: While some campgrounds offer full hookups, configuration may vary. Cape Ann Camp Site has "water, sewer, and electric hookups" but Lajaun C. notes there is "no wifi," requiring preparation for limited connectivity.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with RV sites offer sewer hookups at individual sites. One camper mentions that at Cape Ann, "There is no sewer hook up however, near the street there is a dump station," requiring planning for waste management during longer stays.
