Camping options near Newbury, Massachusetts range from state parks to family-friendly RV resorts within a 30-minute drive radius. Newbury's coastal location provides access to both inland forests and Atlantic beaches, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with limited availability during popular summer weekends.
What to do
Kayaking on ponds: At Pawtuckaway State Park Campground visitors can enjoy water activities on multiple small islands. "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," notes one camper.
Beach exploration: Located about 25 minutes from Newbury, Winter Island Park offers direct oceanfront camping with tide pool opportunities. "The beach is interesting with some tide pools as well as sand and warm water. Life guards were paying attention," reports one visitor who appreciated the supervised swimming areas.
Mountain biking trails: Bear Brook State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks. "We camped here to check out the mountain bike trails in the park and we're not disappointed on either count. The biking trails were a blast," shares a visitor. The park's trails accommodate various skill levels across its 10,000-acre forest preserve.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural screening between sites at Wakeda Campground. "We stayed At Wakeda Campground overnight during a trip from Maine back to Long Island, NY. We were overwhelmed by the beautiful massive forest. The campground was splendid with old tall, pine trees everywhere," notes one reviewer who spotted wildlife including turkeys and hummingbirds.
Well-maintained facilities: Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort receives praise for its upkeep. "This is one of the cleanest, most meticulously maintained campground we have been to. So quiet and peaceful as well. Wifi service was exellent," reports a satisfied camper, highlighting the modern amenities that complement luxury camping or glamping in Newbury, Massachusetts.
Clean bathroom facilities: When glamping near Newbury, Massachusetts, bathroom quality matters. "The bathrooms are clean and nice, and the landscape was well maintained," mentions one camper at Sea Coast Camping, while another notes that Pawtuckaway has "clean Bathrooms and pay showers (5 cents)."
What you should know
Shower costs: Several campgrounds charge for showers. At Cape Ann Camp Site, one reviewer mentions "25 cents per 5 minute hot shower is offered in the public restroom," while others noted similar arrangements at different parks.
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds close by mid-October. The Pines Camping Area operates "from April 1 to Columbus Day," while Bear Brook State Park runs from "early May-late Oct."
Reservation requirements: Tuxbury Pond RV Campground can be difficult to reserve during peak times. "Just awful experience 0/10 don't even bother making reservations here," warns one frustrated camper, suggesting early booking is essential for glamping experiences near Newbury.
Cell service varies: Connectivity differs between campgrounds. One camper at Winter Island reports good connectivity, while at Bear Brook, a visitor notes "Cell phone coverage varies from 1-2 bars, not always 4G, on Verizon."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When camping with children, consider site location. At Bear Brook, one reviewer advises: "I'd avoid site 93 because it is so close to the playground and the fire ring placement makes it seem like families enjoying the playground will be tempted to walk through your site."
Beach access options: For families seeking water activities, Winter Island offers convenient beach access. "We spent a weekend here on a tent site close to the beach. There was no parking at our site, but the parking lot was only 25 yards away so it was not an issue," mentions one visitor.
Bug preparedness: At The Pines Camping Area, one family shares an important warning: "The con of this camp ground was the misquote, we went through 3 deep woods cans in just the first night. They were crazy and kids were eaten alive."
Entertainment options: Winding River Campground offers various activities for children. "We had a great time here camping with our kids and grandkids. River is not much to look at but the pool was great and there were great events like foam parties, DJ at the pool, pancake breakfast and live music to name a few," shares a satisfied family camper.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At many campgrounds, site conditions vary significantly. At Bear Brook, an RVer notes: "I was in site 38 and found that the little loop to my campsite was tight to exit (I was towing a 14' teardrop, not a big trailer) and I had to be careful to swing wide at the corner."
Full hookup availability: At Wakeda Campground, RVers appreciate the comprehensive utilities. "They offered electric, water, and sewer hook up, trading post that had camping goods and snacks, WiFi hotspot, pool table, and lounging area," shares one camper.
Laundry facilities: For extended stays, laundry access matters. At Winding River, one RVer cautions: "The laundry room had two washers (one was broken) and two dryers 2.50 each per load. Not sufficient for a campground this size (especially when people leave their clothes in the machine for 30 mins after they're done!)"
