Tent camping near New Bedford, Massachusetts offers coastal and island opportunities within a 45-mile radius. The region features a mix of mainland and island camping sites with varying levels of accessibility. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak camping months, with coastal breezes moderating humidity and cooler nights in spring and fall.
What to do
Beach exploration: At Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites, campers can find sea glass and explore extensive shorelines. One camper noted, "This is a really cool option for those interested in visiting Cape Cod and also backpacking."
Water activities: Campers at Washburn Island Campsites — Waquoit Bay Reserve can paddle along protected bay waters. The location provides "Small island with 10 camp site (one group) all with views of the water very quiet at night."
Historical exploration: Military fortifications provide educational opportunities for history enthusiasts. At Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground, visitors can "explore the old forts and visitors centers, earn a Junior Ranger badge from the National Park Service, fly a kite, or go for a swim or kayak."
Berry picking: Seasonal foraging adds variety to camping trips. One visitor to Boston Harbor Islands mentioned, "In mid-August we collected handfuls of blackberries as we explored Peddocks."
What campers like
Waterfront views: The camping experience includes waterfront perspectives with minimal light pollution. A visitor to Sandy Neck Beach commented, "This is one of the few places where you can sleep on the beach! It's a great place. The water is on the cold side but it's worth it."
Nighttime seclusion: The lack of crowds creates private camping experiences, especially during non-peak times. A Washburn Island camper reported, "Campsites can be reserved 6 months in advance so it is tough to get one during the summer months but great camping in May, September, and October as well."
Urban wilderness contrast: Buck Hill Campground offers a more rural experience within driving distance. A visitor described it as "heavily wooded without much else around and very few amenities... the type of campground to just come and unwind, fish, cook, etc don't expect much else."
Beach campfires: Where permitted, beach fires create memorable experiences. At Sandy Neck Beach, "Campfires allowed at night, and pets are allowed. All around a great place to camp."
What you should know
Transportation logistics: Getting to island sites requires advance planning. For Boston Harbor Islands, a camper advised, "Check the ferry schedule. Figure out which departure makes the most sense for you... For Bumpkin and Grape Islands, you'll want to leave from Hingham; Peddocks and Lovells are available from either departure point."
Water considerations: Potable water availability varies significantly between sites. At Arcadia Backpack Camping Area, campers need to carry in all drinking water.
Physical demands: Some sites require significant hiking through challenging terrain. A Sandy Neck visitor explained, "The hike in to the sites can be particularly difficult because it requires trekking through sand without any sun coverage and with all of your gear."
Reservation timing: Popular sites book up quickly during peak seasons. For Washburn Island, "Reservations can be reserved 6 months in advance so it is tough to get one during the summer months."
Site availability uncertainty: Some locations operate on first-come systems. At Sandy Neck Beach, "It's also a bit of a gamble because the sites are not reservable ahead of time. In order to secure a spot, you must show up at the park headquarters where sites are handed out on a first come first served basis."
Tips for camping with families
Pack light but thoroughly: Managing gear with children requires strategic packing. For Boston Harbor Islands, one camper recommended, "Pack as lightly as possible and plan to carry or wheel it to your site. If you have a folding wagon, you may appreciate having it to carry items on and off the ferry and to your site."
Consider yurt options: Water's Edge Campground and some Boston Harbor Islands locations offer alternative accommodations that reduce equipment needs for families.
Plan for water delivery: Some parks offer water delivery services to reduce carrying loads. At Sandy Neck Beach, "A nice amenity is that the park staff will send someone to the sites to deliver 5 gallons of water for free as well as firewood for a small fee so you don't have to carry those resources."
Junior Ranger activities: Educational programming provides structured activities. Boston Harbor Islands allows children to "earn a Junior Ranger badge from the National Park Service."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping near New Bedford caters to tent campers with minimal RV facilities. Buck Hill Campground has "sites are in large clusters" without typical RV amenities.
Consider seasonal timing: Shoulder season offers more availability and fewer crowds. One camper noted that for Washburn Island, "Camped there May 20-25 and there were only 1-2 other sites being used."
Bring appropriate vehicles: For sites permitting vehicle access, prepare for terrain limitations. At Sandy Neck, "You need a sandy neck ORV pass and a self contained camper (toilet) to camp here."
