Best Camping near Salem, MA
Camping near Salem, Massachusetts
Salem, Massachusetts, is a historic and vibrant city known for its rich history, especially its infamous witch trials. But beyond the haunted tales and historic sites, Salem offers a variety of camping experiences that cater to both seasoned campers and those new to the outdoor lifestyle. Whether you're looking to stay close to the city for easy access to its attractions or prefer a more secluded spot in nature, the campgrounds around Salem provide a range of options.
From beachside retreats to forested state parks, camping near Salem allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds: the excitement of city life and the tranquility of nature. Here’s a guide to help you plan your camping trip, including what to do, what campers like, what you should know, and tips for families and RVers.
What to do
Camping near Salem offers a variety of activities for all ages. You can explore the historic sites of Salem, enjoy outdoor adventures, or simply relax by the campfire. Many campgrounds are conveniently located near popular attractions, making it easy to plan day trips.
For instance, Winter Island Park is just a short distance from downtown Salem, making it a perfect base for exploring the city. Laura M. mentioned, "We walked from there to town, but if that’s too far then there are Lyft and a trolley available." Read more.
If you’re into mountain biking, Wompatuck State Park Campground offers great trails. Whitney L. shared, "This campground is a great basecamp for accessing the mountain bike trails available within the park." Read more.
For beach lovers, Salisbury Beach State Reservation provides easy access to the ocean. Thomas B. noted, "Great location. Perfect for a beach weekend or week." Read more.
What campers like
Campers appreciate the variety of experiences available near Salem, from the scenic beauty to the convenient amenities. Many campgrounds offer a mix of natural settings and modern conveniences, making them ideal for different types of campers.
At Lorraine Park Campground, Roger W. highlighted the spacious and private sites: "Most are very good. Our site, #115 opens up to #48." Read more.
Winter Island Park is praised for its beautiful scenery and proximity to Salem. Paul mentioned, "Woke up bright and early and was totally impressed by the beautiful scenery!!" Read more.
Campers also enjoy the amenities at Beach Rose RV Park. Barbara P. said, "Simple, clean, perfect pool set up, quiet and close to beaches and New Hampshire coastline." Read more.
What you should know
While camping near Salem offers many perks, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience. Some campgrounds can get crowded, especially during peak seasons, and amenities may vary.
At Wompatuck State Park Campground, Atlas W. pointed out, "There was so much litter everywhere. We noticed this on our way to our site and when we got to our site there was trash everywhere." Read more.
Beach Rose RV Park can feel cramped, as Mommy D. noted, "The owner is nice and helpful, but this is not an RV park, it is a parking lot of RVs." Read more.
Bathrooms at Salisbury Beach State Reservation have been reported as less than ideal. Randy F. shared, "The bathrooms are pretty gnarly. It looks like they are cleaned every-other day." Read more.
Tips for camping with families
Camping with family can be a rewarding experience, especially when you choose a campground that caters to kids and offers family-friendly amenities. Many campgrounds near Salem provide activities and facilities that make camping enjoyable for all ages.
Winter Island Park has a playground and beach, making it a great spot for families. Michelle C. mentioned, "This is a city park with a beach and a campground. There is a playground and beach." Read more.
At Lorraine Park Campground, Cheryl B. appreciated the flat and spacious sites: "The site was flat. Had running water, grill, and fire pit. There was plenty of space." Read more.
For a beachside experience, Salisbury Beach State Reservation is ideal. Melissa B. shared, "The ocean is absolutely gorgeous, clean, beautiful, and that is my favorite." Read more.
Tips from RVers
RVers will find several campgrounds near Salem that cater to their needs, offering amenities like electric hookups, water, and sanitary dumps. However, it's essential to choose a campground that can accommodate your rig size and provides the necessary facilities.
Beach Rose RV Park is a popular choice for RVers. Linda H. noted, "Fairly small sites, but very well maintained. A really nice place to stay while visiting family in the area." Read more.
At Winter Island Park, Laura M. shared her experience with the dump station: "The dump hole is awkwardly placed and gross (we saw the previous dumper’s remnants!) but it was fine." Read more.
Wompatuck State Park Campground offers electric hookups, which can be a plus for RVers. Atlas W. mentioned, "It is $54 a night NON electric for non-MA residents and at that point don’t even bother coming here it’s NOT worth $60." Read more.
Camping near Salem, Massachusetts, provides a unique blend of history, nature, and convenience. Whether you're exploring the haunted streets of Salem or enjoying the serene landscapes of nearby campgrounds, there's something for everyone. Use this guide to make the most of your camping adventure and create lasting memories with your loved ones.