Camping options around Lowell, Massachusetts span across two states, with most campgrounds situated between 25 and 40 miles from the city. The region offers a mix of wooded state parks and privately-run campgrounds, with camping seasons typically running from early May through October. Winter camping is limited, with only The Pine Campground remaining open year-round for those seeking off-season accommodations.
What to do
Hiking at Bear Brook State Park: Located within a 10,000-acre forest preserve about 30 miles from Lowell, the park offers extensive trail systems for day hikes. "The campground is peaceful and quiet, although adjacent to a very busy AFB. Proximity to the base provides access to the base exchange and other facilities, but the quiet location is a recreational retreat centered around several indoor and outdoor gathering spaces," notes Janet R. from Bear Brook State Park Campground.
Water recreation at Pawtuckaway State Park: The park features multiple water-based activities with canoe and kayak rentals available. "This a a fantastic little camp for if you want to go canoeing or kayaking or boating of any kind! It's set up of three islands and a large majority of the campsites are right on the water," writes Matt R. about Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
Historical exploration: Many campgrounds serve as convenient base camps for visiting Revolutionary War sites. "Close to minute man historical sites- revolutionary war historical trails and Ranger Station. Not too far from Boston," explains Caitlin B. from Hanscom AFB FamCamp.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Campers consistently praise lakeside accommodations. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" shares J L. at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
Proximity to urban attractions: The area's campgrounds offer easy access to both natural settings and city amenities. "We spent two nights at this campground- the closest camping to Boston. The campground is right on the ocean with incredible harbor views. It was an easy bike ride to the Salem Ferry to get access into Boston for the day," explains Rae M. from Winter Island Park.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds feature dedicated swimming areas. "Beautiful campground, clean facilities, decently priced. The pool, playground, bathrooms, and basketball court were all open and well maintained. We really enjoyed our stay!" reports Kristen L. about Tuxbury Pond RV Campground.
What you should know
Military-only restrictions: Certain campgrounds have specific eligibility requirements. "Military only campground. Working on improving the grounds and services available. Limited sites available off season. Summer season early May through end October," advises Heather C. about Hanscom AFB FamCamp.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping options close to Lowell, Massachusetts require advance booking. "Small camp. Have very few campsites, you definitely need to reserve a spot before you come. The manager, David, is super friendly and helped me out BIG because I didn't have a reservation and they were filled up," shares Sadie A. about Winter Island Park.
Seasonal variations: Be aware of changing campground policies throughout the year. "Staying at #20 tent sight and loving it. No water on this site but there is electricity. Several options for bathrooms and all have hot running water," notes Gail W. from Hanscom AFB FamCamp.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When booking a site with children, consider proximity to play areas. "We stayed here for a week, our site was large with full hookups and the area was very clean, some sites in other sections are closer together. There are lots of seasonal campers so if you don't like that atmosphere this is probably not the place for you," advises Betty H. about Tuxbury Pond RV Campground.
Dedicated swimming areas: Many local campgrounds offer designated beach areas for children. "We camped in tents and loved this campground. The restrooms were very clean and being cleaned constantly. The beach was beautiful and enjoyed walking on the larger rocks," reports Heather P. from Winter Island Park.
Indoor recreation options: For unpredictable New England weather, consider campgrounds with indoor facilities. "Pleasantly very friendly staff, beautiful pool, arcade lounge," mentions Rebecca R. about The Pine Campground, which remains open year-round.
Tips from RVers
Specialized RV amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated RV facilities. "This is one of the best campgrounds you will ever come to, it is beautiful, manicured, has a number of pools and a rec hall filled with things to do. Some sites have sewer water and electric and some no sewer but there are dump stations around the campground," explains Sandie B. from Normandy Farms Campground.
Site dimensions and access: Many glamping accommodations near Lowell have size restrictions. "Sites dispersed, one lane gravel road, 50 amp and 30 amp power available, large number of full time campers," reports Mike H. about Calef Lake Camping Area.
Seasonal considerations: RV services vary by season. "Small camp ground, close to Boston, only 25 miles out. Kinda cool watching the airplanes take off and land with the small airport next door," Jennifer D. notes about Hanscom AFB FamCamp.
Legend
