Best Campgrounds near Salem, MA

Camping near Salem, Massachusetts, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different needs.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the trails at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "So many lovely waterfront sites, clean facilities, camp store and beach are great."
• Water Activities: Enjoy kayaking or canoeing at Bear Brook State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "The campground has a beach, a playground, a ball field, and a store."
• Family Fun: Check out Normandy Farms Campground for activities like crafts and games. One camper said, "It has so many things for the kids to do. Everyone is so friendly."

What campers like:

• Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the large, private sites at Greenfield State Park Campground. A long-time visitor shared, "If you like large sites in a wooded setting with many private ones, this is the place."
• Clean Facilities: Many enjoy the well-maintained bathrooms and showers at Wompatuck State Park Campground. One review highlighted, "The bathroom amenities work but not the cleanest."
• Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpful staff at George Washington State Campground. A visitor noted, "Staff was friendly and helpful, with park rangers making regular rounds."

What you should know:

• Pet Policies: If you're bringing pets, check the rules. At Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, pets are allowed on trails but not in the campground during summer. One reviewer pointed out, "Pets are NOT permitted in the campground or beach area during the summer season."
• Crowded Weekends: Expect busier conditions on weekends. A camper at Greenfield State Park Campground mentioned, "The weekend was packed! Our neighbors were playing karaoke till 11pm."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Wompatuck State Park Campground, may not have markets or extensive amenities. A visitor noted, "There is NO market."

Tips for camping with families:

• Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with organized activities. Normandy Farms Campground offers a variety of games and crafts. A parent shared, "Our site had the perfect amount of shade overall a great experience!"
• Safety First: Keep an eye out for ticks, especially at Bear Brook State Park Campground. One camper warned, "Our dog got covered in ticks so watch for that."
• Plan for Noise: Be prepared for noise from other campers, especially on weekends. A visitor at Greenfield State Park Campground mentioned, "Some of the clientele is a bit noisy but overall a very nice spot to camp cheap!"

Tips from RVers:

• Leveling Blocks: Bring leveling blocks for uneven sites. A reviewer at Normandy Farms Campground said, "We have a 25” B+ and basically had to park sideways and use a lot of leveling blocks."
• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Boston/Cape Cod KOA noted, "Some of the FHU sites are pretty tight, but overall the campground is nice."
• Amenities Matter: Look for campgrounds with full hookups. A visitor at Minute Man Campground appreciated, "The sites were ample size and space for our rig and needs."

Camping around Salem, Massachusetts, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to check the specific campground rules and amenities to ensure a great experience!