Cabins near Revere, Massachusetts provide access to scenic coastal waters as well as wooded landscapes in the suburban Boston area. The region sits at low elevations, typically under 50 feet above sea level, with a humid continental climate that brings warm summers and cold winters. Camping facilities in the area range from rustic to luxury, with most sites being open from April through October due to the New England seasonal weather patterns.
What to do
Kayaking at Boston Harbor Islands State Park: Bring your own water or use the interisland ferry system to explore multiple islands. "While you're out on the islands, take time to explore one of the others…look for sea glass on Spectacle Island and climb the hill for a view of the Boston skyline, 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," writes Jean C. about Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground.
Hiking at Blue Hills: Located near Ponkapoag Camp, the Blue Hills offer accessible trails with Boston views. "Blue Hill is within hiking distance, and it is a favorite spot for seeing the sunrise. Apparently you can see all the way to Boston!" notes Rita M. about Ponkapoag Camp.
Swimming in ponds: Many campgrounds feature natural swimming areas. "The kids can hang out in the clubhouse if it's raining or swim in the pond if it's hot. Lots of hiking trails," mentions stacy about Ponkapoag Camp.
Berry picking: Seasonal foraging opportunities exist at several parks. "In mid-August we collected handfuls of blackberries as we explored Peddocks," reports one visitor to Boston Harbor Islands.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Choose sites with direct water access for better camping experiences. "If you plan ahead and get a water front site it's amazing... but all the sites are roomy and lovely to camp at! Kayaking, swimming area and hiking were all 5 stars!" explains Erin W. about Pawtuckaway State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom areas. "Clean sites and facilities. Staff was very helpful. Sites are a bit on the smaller side and not very private. Great location to see some of the historical sites in the area. Heated pool was great!" reports Stephanie about Spacious Skies Minute Man.
Rustic atmosphere near the city: Cabin camping allows for a wilderness feel with urban convenience. "Ponky is a hidden gem! Minutes from Boston, feels Miles away. Love the cabins! Spending Friday & Saturday in one of the cabins (w/woodstove) is deal for a winter weekend adventure!" says stu L. about Ponkapoag Camp.
Cultural events: Some campgrounds offer organized entertainment. "The band was good & the stand up comedy was awesome. For the most part, the comedians kept it fairly clean & our 9 yr old did not get any of the jokes that were a little sassy," shares Sara D. about Tuxbury Pond.
What you should know
Limited water access: Many cabin sites require guests to bring their own water supplies. "Make sure you bring enough drinking water and that you are ok with using the composting bathroom or going in the woods," advises Jess G. about Boston Harbor Islands.
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly, especially waterfront locations. "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," shares Martha H.
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 (which was in itself lovely and explained much of the harbor on the way) to Georges Island. After that we waited and got on a much smaller island to Lovells," explains Jess G.
Off-season advantages: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides a different experience. "We went in early May, when it was still a bit cold at night (in the low 40s) and not many people were around. The campground, though we had neighbors in every adjoining site, was pretty quiet," writes Kris M. about Pawtuckaway State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Resort-style amenities: Family-friendly facilities offer multiple activities. "This campground has showers (pay with quarters for hot water) activities for the kids, pool, arcade, snack bar," explains Gemma G. about Canoe River Campground.
Kid-focused entertainment: Some locations provide scheduled programs. "We stayed here for a few nights when they celebrated Halloween 🎃. It is super easy to get around. They had tons of festive activities. They have an indoor and an outdoor pool. The restrooms are clean," shares Liz W. about Normandy Farms Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Children often enjoy the natural animal interactions at parks. "I forgot the daily visits from the ducks, like clockwork morning and dusk a family of ducks visited looking for grub and although most feed them bread, I know that's not good for them so they left unsatisfied," recalls Ellen C. about Pawtuckaway State Park.
Environmental education: Look for parks with learning opportunities. "We came here while in college at Brandeis University with my field Biology class. We explored all over the bog looking for interesting species of plants and animals and found so many amazing things. This is an amazing site to take anyone who is adventurous and loves to explore," suggests Asher K.
Tips from RVers
Early arrival planning: Some campgrounds charge for early check-in. "Only down side is office is inflexible on $25 fee if you arrive before 2 pm," notes mary F. about Spacious Skies Minute Man.
Site selection for privacy: Pay attention to location when booking. "I have learned that you really need to upgrade to the better campsites to enjoy your stay. With that being said I did not take my own advice and I booked a basic 30 amp fullhook up campsite and it was so tight that unfortunately I did not enjoy it as much as I wanted to," advises Janet P. about Boston/Cape Cod KOA.
Road navigation challenges: Campground roads may not match maps. "Roads are a little interesting to navigate, and definitely aren't the straight lines on their map!" warns Brittany V. about Spacious Skies Minute Man.
Local attractions access: Many cabin rentals provide convenient bases for exploring. "Very easy to get into Boston by train. Level sites, quiet, and very clean restrooms make this a perfect spot for touring historic Boston, Concord, & Lexington," shares Charles K.