Tent camping near Rockport, Massachusetts centers around coastal sites within 40 miles of this North Shore community. The camping season typically runs May through mid-October when temperatures average 55-75°F during summer months. Winter storms and coastal winds make off-season camping impractical, with most facilities closing entirely from late October through April.
What to do
Beach exploration: Cape Ann Camp Site provides access to Good Harbor Beach within walking distance. "Cape Ann Campground is located close to Gloucester and Rockport. The campground is clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites," notes Della S., highlighting the beach proximity that makes this location popular.
Hiking and biking: Camp Nihan Education Center connects directly to Breakheart Reservation with multiple trail options. Michael V. shares, "The camp is also adjacent to Breakheart Reservation, which had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty as well as bike trails and a range of different hikes."
Island hopping: Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground serves as a base for exploring multiple islands via inter-island ferries. "During the day you can take small ferries to a variety of other islands to go swimming or explore. This is a great adventure for kids," explains Martha H., detailing the unique island-based activities.
What campers like
Rocky shorelines: Peddocks Island at Boston Harbor Islands offers extensive rocky coastlines for exploration. "The island is beautiful and has an old fort to explore as well as a lot of Rocky shoreline and trails. You can build bon fires and see gorgeous sunsets," mentions Martha H.
Wildlife viewing: Cape Ann Camp Site provides opportunities for wildlife observation. John S. notes, "Very nice folks, great sites with A LOT of space between them. Spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc."
Historic structures: Lovells Island contains numerous military structures to discover. "Exploring the island was awesome. We found all kinds of bunkers and a brick house," writes Jess G., describing the historical exploration opportunities at Boston Harbor Islands.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Cape Ann's coastal location means weather can change rapidly, requiring proper gear. Rebecca S. explains, "Campground is clean but very rustic. Facilities are on the old side. Great beach access and friendly staff."
Ferry logistics: Boston Harbor Islands requires careful transportation 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 to Georges Island. After that we waited and got on a much smaller island to Lovells," cautions Jess G.
Shower facilities: Most area campgrounds offer basic pay showers. Ben E. notes at Cape Ann Camp Site, "The showers require payment with quarters. I don't know how many quarters it takes because I don't carry change. So I washed my hair in the sink."
Site surfaces: Most tent sites feature dirt or rustic surfaces rather than improved pads. Cristina P. mentions, "We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area," but other campers note variations in site quality.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Camp Nihan Education Center offers environmental learning options. "Perfect blend of rugged and convenient for small kid camping. We went camping here with our SpiralScout Circle, kids aged 4-8. The group site is super close to parking and yet the terrain is rugged enough that it always felt like we were really in the woods," explains Michael V.
Swimming locations: Many area beaches have supervised swimming areas. "Breakheart Reservation, which had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty" is noted by Michael V. as being particularly good for families with small children.
Supply planning: Limited on-site stores mean bringing essentials. Cape Ann does offer some emergency supplies as LaJaun C. notes, "There is a nice little store on-site for anything you forgot. It is also close enough to stores if you need more."
Water requirements: Some sites require bringing your own drinking water. Jean C. warns regarding Boston Harbor Islands, "If you're traveling as a family, look at the family pack for another discount. You can show the ticket on your phone when you board. 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 on the island."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites tend to be less secluded than tent areas. Della S. points out, "The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites," when describing Cape Ann Camp Site.
Hookup availability: Cape Ann Camp Site offers various hookup options. LaJaun C. confirms, "They have water, sewer, and electric hookups. No wifi."
Pricing expectations: Expect to pay $60-70 nightly for serviced sites. Ben E. shares, "We paid $60 a night for a 30 amp spot with water," providing a specific reference point for budgeting purposes.
