Tent camping around Saugus, Massachusetts sits within the coastal woodland region of Massachusetts' North Shore. Most campgrounds in this area operate seasonally from May through October, with peak demand occurring during July and August. The terrain features a mix of coastal and forest environments at elevations between sea level and approximately 250 feet. Camping options range from rustic sites requiring self-sufficiency to more developed facilities with basic amenities.
What to do
Beach exploration: At Cape Ann Camp Site, campers can access nearby beaches for swimming and tide pool discovery. "Cape Anne is beautiful. Perfect location with access to Rockport... Beach down the street was big, beautiful and low tide was unexpected as you could walk for ever," notes camper Ron C.
Island exploration: The Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground offers unique opportunities for exploring historic sites. "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," recommends ranger Jean C.
Wildlife observation: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to spot native wildlife. John S. from Cape Ann Camp Site mentions seeing "spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc." Foraging is sometimes possible seasonally, with one visitor noting "in mid-August we collected handfuls of blackberries as we explored Peddocks."
What campers like
Spacious sites: The layout at many campgrounds provides privacy between sites. "The camp ground we loved; it was clean & secluded enough but close enough to others to meet & greet if you wanted," shares Ron C. about his Cape Ann experience. Another camper noted, "The sites are nice and wooded. All size RVs and tents are welcome."
Island camping: Military Park New Boston Air Force Station offers "Great scenery with fresh air and freedom sunshine," according to Shuang W. This creates a more remote feeling despite proximity to urban areas.
Accessibility to Boston: Many sites provide camping options with quick access to urban amenities while maintaining a natural setting. Martha H. describes her Boston Harbor Islands experience: "Just getting to the island is a fun adventure. 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."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most tent camping near Saugus requires advance planning. For Boston Harbor Islands, "Reservations open 6 months in advance and sites fill quickly, so plan ahead if you're counting on a particulate day," advises Jean C.
Transportation logistics: Island camping requires additional planning for ferry transportation. "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," explains Jess G.
Water availability: Water access varies significantly between campgrounds. Some island sites require bringing your own water supply. "Make sure that you bring enough drinking water and that you are ok with using the composting bathroom or going in the woods," warns one Boston Harbor Islands visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Best tent camping near Saugus, Massachusetts for kids: The terrain at Camp Nihan Education Center provides an accessible introduction to camping. "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," says Michael V.
Shower facilities: Cape Ann Camp Site offers pay showers, which families should prepare for. "Bathrooms and pay showers (5 cents). The owners are very helpful," shares Della S.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming options suitable for children. Michael V. notes that Camp Nihan is "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."
Tips from RVers
Site conditions: For RV campers considering best camping options near Saugus, Massachusetts, some sites have specific surface conditions to consider. "The sites are all dirt. There is no concrete pads," notes doris C. about Cape Ann Camp Site.
Hookup availability: Cape Ann Camp Site offers various hookup options. "They have water, sewer, and electric hookups. No wifi," explains Lajaun C.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste management needs in advance. One camper notes that at Cape Ann, "There is no sewer hook up however, near the street there is a 'dump station.'" Ben E. adds they paid "$60 a night for a 30 amp spot with water."
