Campgrounds near Rockport, Massachusetts offer coastal camping options within 20 miles of this North Shore destination. The area features rocky beaches, tidal marshes, and mixed forest terrain with elevations rarely exceeding 100 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with cooler nights around 60°F, while spring and fall bring temperatures between 45-65°F with increased precipitation.
What to do
Beach exploration: 2 miles from Cape Ann Camp Site, campers can visit Good Harbor Beach and Rockport's shoreline. "Cape Anne is beautiful. Perfect location with access to Rockport - a beautiful place to visit, shop, eat & a great little trail with great views," reports Ron C., who enjoyed exploring the coastal trails.
Mountain biking: 40 minutes at Wompatuck State Park offers a network of beginner-friendly trails. "God access to some beginner flowy mountain bike trails," notes Mike M. The park maintains over 12 miles of marked biking paths through mixed deciduous forest.
Fishing excursions: At Winter Island Park, Salem Harbor provides saltwater fishing opportunities. "There's a jetty to sit on and fish from or watch the sunrise. I enjoyed the morning deep sea fishing trips from companies across the street," shares Jean C. Fishing licenses required for ages 16+ cost $10/day for non-residents.
Wildlife viewing: Harold Parker State Forest contains several small ponds hosting native species. "Very nice folks, great sites with A LOT of space between them. Spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc.," comments John S. Early mornings offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Lorraine Park Campground offers secluded sites within a state forest setting. "Large sites. Clean bathroom. Good for families or couples," notes Rebecca D. Sites are well-spaced with natural vegetation serving as barriers between campsites.
Swimming options: Multiple beach access points provide varied swimming experiences. "Beach down the street was big, beautiful and low tide was unexpected as you could walk for ever," writes Ron C. about the beach near Cape Ann Camp Site. Most beaches have limited parking that fills by 10am during summer weekends.
Clean facilities: Salisbury Beach State Reservation maintains well-kept amenities. "Clean facilities, super quick access to the beach, friendly staff, sites are pretty close together with little separation between each other," says Sara D. Bathhouses feature coin-operated showers at most locations.
Historical features: Winter Island Park includes remnants of Fort Pickering. "You can explore the beach, launch a boat (paddle or motor), catch a sunrise, or explore the remnants of Fort Pickering," mentions Jean C. The fort dates back to the 17th century and offers self-guided historical markers.
What you should know
Advance reservations: Essential for Beach Rose RV Park and nearby campgrounds, especially summer weekends. "Owners were helpful on arrival, level concrete pad full hookups. Sites close together but quiet," notes Jackie M. Reservations open 6 months in advance with most summer weekends booking within days.
Site spacing varies: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of privacy. "Not very private and sites are packed close together, but that is what I expected based off the map," observes Meg T. about Salisbury Beach State Reservation.
Shower facilities: Most campgrounds charge for shower use. "The restrooms were very clean and being cleaned constantly," reports Heather P. about Winter Island Park. Bring quarters for showers at many locations.
Alcohol policies: State parks prohibit alcohol while private campgrounds allow it. "Only complaint about Massachusetts state parks is no alcohol even while sitting in your site," mentions Randy R. about Lorraine Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wakeda Campground offers family-friendly recreation areas. "Great location with access to Salisbury Beach and friendly staff. The playground is perfect for kids," shares Kris S. The playground features equipment suitable for ages 2-12.
Kid-friendly beaches: Ocean beaches often have gentler areas at low tide. "The kids had a great time by the sea and the playground. There was 2 weddings while we where their. It a great feelings sleeping under the stars and waking up to the crisp air," writes Candace H. about Winter Island Park.
Wildlife education: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Rockport offer wildlife observation opportunities. "We saw wild turkeys, bunnies, and a hummingbird," shares Pawsfuradventure T. about their stay at Wakeda Campground. Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing.
Movie nights: Some campgrounds host family entertainment. "There's a high speed catamaran that runs to and from Boston, but it's expensive. The MBTA offers a special weekend commuter rail pass with their online app," notes Jean C. about transportation options from Winter Island Park.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: At Hampton Beach State Park Campground, be prepared for tight spacing. "It is basically a parking lot, but with full hookups and on the ocean. The ocean breezes are fantastic," explains Steve K. Sites measure approximately 20' x 40' with limited space for additional equipment.
Hookup placement: At some campgrounds electrical and water connections may be inconveniently located. "The electrical post and water hookup were placed way behind our site and we could not reach even with our 40' electrical cord," reports Nancy W. about Salisbury Beach State Reservation. Bring extension cords and extra water hoses.
Weather considerations: Coastal sites experience stronger winds. "Be careful of your awning as it is very windy," warns David V. about Hampton Beach State Park. Some pet-friendly campgrounds near Rockport have more sheltered inland sites that provide better protection from coastal breezes.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds have on-site dump facilities. "FYI - the dump station is not on site; ask at the office about arrangements for this," advises Jean C. about Winter Island Park. Plan accordingly for waste management during longer stays.
