Tent campsites near North Chelmsford, Massachusetts range from basic sites with minimal facilities to those offering more amenities within a 30-mile radius. This region sits at relatively low elevations (300-500 feet) and experiences cold winters with average January temperatures around 25°F. Summer camping season typically runs May through October, with July averaging 82°F highs and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Disc golf at Tully Lake: The recreation area offers a course near the dam that sees regular activity during summer months. "Volleyball and horseshoes are near the entrance" at Tully Lake Recreation Area, notes Jean C., who also mentions you can "hike the 4-mile loop around Tully Lake."
Paddle the Boston Harbor Islands: Multiple islands offer exploration opportunities by boat. "You can take small ferries to a variety of other islands to go swimming or explore. This is a great adventure for kids," writes Martha H. about Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground.
Waterfall hiking: Several camping areas have accessible waterfall trails. "If you'd like to hike with children, there is an easy hike close to the entrance, along Doane's Falls, a series of 5 waterfalls along an ascending path through a wooded area," according to Nancy R., describing Tully Lake's nearby attraction.
What campers like
Island camping privacy: Some locations offer unique island campsites. "I stayed on the island site, which was absolutely amazing. The views are to die for, and it's really meant for people who want to be outdoors in the woods," writes Kris M. about her experience at Tully Lake.
Beach access from campsites: Several North Chelmsford area campgrounds provide water activities. "This was the trifecta for us, where we could fish, kayak, and swim!" explains stacey W. about her first camping experience at Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Wooded seclusion: Many sites offer forest settings. "It doesn't look like much but it is absolutely lovely when you actually pull in! We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area," reports Cristina P. about her stay at Cape Ann Camp Site.
What you should know
Cart-in camping system: Several campgrounds require gear transportation from parking areas. "This is a 'Carry In' campground. You park at the entrance, register with Ranger. Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site," explains Nancy R. about Tully Lake's setup.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly. "The sites fill up weeks out (and can completely fill the day registration opens, which is date-dependent each year...Booking for Memorial Day meant I booked in April)," warns Kris M.
Limited facilities: Many tent sites near North Chelmsford have basic amenities. "The campsites are spacious and though there is not a bad site, some are better suited for certain purposes like group camping. Each site has a table and a fire ring," explains Miguel B. about Camp Nihan Education Center.
Tips for camping with families
Vehicle-free camping benefits: Car-free camping areas create safer environments. "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around. It also made for a super quiet stay," reports Megan G. about her experience at Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Pack minimal gear: Transportation logistics require efficient packing. "The sites here are great, if you aren't bringing too much with you (or are staying long enough you don't mind the multiple treks to and from the car for various stretches)," advises Kris M.
Cell service limitations: Many camping areas have spotty connections. "Cell coverage is pretty close to absent or poor in most of the area, so download any maps you might want (driving, trail, geocaching) before you arrive," suggests Jean C.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for different camping styles: Several campgrounds offer separate areas for tent and RV camping. "The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites," notes Della S. about Cape Ann Camp Site, which provides "water, sewer, and electric hookups" according to Lajaun C.
Shower facilities vary: Pay showers are common at North Chelmsford area campgrounds. "The showers require payment with quarters. I don't know how many quarters it takes because I don't carry change," explains Ben E. after staying at Cape Ann Camp Site.
Space between sites: Some RV areas offer more separation than others. "Very nice folks, great sites with A LOT of space between them," writes John S. about his experience at Cape Ann, where RV campers can find "all size RVs and tents are welcome."
