Tent camping near Sharon, Massachusetts puts campers within 25 miles of Boston Harbor while offering forested retreats in the surrounding region. The area features a mix of coastal and woodland camping options with several campgrounds operating seasonally from May through October. Summer temperatures typically range between 65-85°F, with occasional humid periods and afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Water activities at Wakefield Pond: Buck Hill Campground offers direct access to Wakefield Pond, which is "big enough lake for canoe/kayak/etc" according to camper Greg R. The pond has "a few areas that make for easy entry into the water (including the 'beach')" and clean water suitable for swimming.
Beach excursions near Gloucester: Located approximately 35 miles northeast of Sharon, Cape Ann Camp Site provides access to several coastal beaches. "The beach down the street was big, beautiful and low tide was unexpected as you could walk for ever," notes camper Ron C. The campground's location offers convenient beach access with one visitor mentioning "Great beach access and friendly staff."
Explore historic forts and trails: The islands in Boston Harbor Islands State Park feature historic military installations and walking paths. Visitors can "explore the old forts and visitors centers, earn a Junior Ranger badge from the National Park Service, fly a kite, or go for a swim or kayak," according to a camper. In August, campers reported collecting "handfuls of blackberries" while exploring Peddocks Island.
What campers like
Secluded woodland settings: Tent campers appreciate the natural separation between sites at many campgrounds near Sharon. At Camp Nihan Education Center, campers enjoy a "perfect blend of rugged and convenient" with sites that feel secluded despite being accessible. One visitor noted: "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."
Waterfront camping: The best tent camping near Sharon, Massachusetts often includes waterfront options. Cape Ann Camp Site features "beautiful tent sites" according to one reviewer, while another mentioned the campground is "full of beautiful boulders and fire pits. We were tent camping and were very happy with our site."
Island camping experience: Camping on the Boston Harbor Islands provides a unique overnight opportunity with city views. A camper described the experience: "We found all kinds of bunkers and a brick house. We ended up making a fire pit on the beach and a flat rock 'grill' to make our burgers."
What you should know
Ferry logistics for island camping: Boston Harbor Islands camping requires advance planning. The ferry schedule can be confusing, especially for inter-island transportation. One camper advises: "Check the ferry schedule. Figure out which departure makes the most sense for you. You may choose to leave from Long Wharf, near the Aquarium T stop on the Blue line, or from Hingham, with overnight parking available."
Shower facilities: At Cape Ann Camp Site, showers require quarters for operation. One camper notes: "25 cents per 5 minute hot shower is offered in the public restroom." Another mentions "Showers require payment with quarters. I don't know how many quarters it takes because I don't carry change."
Limited amenities at rustic sites: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Sharon have basic facilities. At Buck Hill Campground, expect "a few rough restrooms and some porta-potties" with minimal amenities. A camper describes it as "the type of campground to just come and unwind, fish, cook, etc. don't expect much else."
Tips for camping with families
Scout-friendly campgrounds: Arcadia Backpack Camping Area and Buck Hill Campground are suitable for youth groups. Buck Hill appears to be "a scouting campground (Cub Scout)" with large cluster sites that "can accommodate 10+ tents," making it ideal for family groups.
Environmental education opportunities: Camp Nihan Education Center offers nature programs for children. The campground 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," notes one visitor with children aged 4-8.
Junior Ranger activities: Boston Harbor Islands State Park offers educational programs for children. Families can "earn a Junior Ranger badge from the National Park Service" while exploring the islands, making it an educational camping trip.
Tips from RVers
Site surface conditions: RVers should note the ground conditions at campgrounds near Sharon. At Frosty Hollow Camping Area and other local sites, tent pads are primarily dirt surfaces rather than concrete. At Cape Ann Camp Site, one RVer observed: "The sites are all dirt. There is no concrete pads."
Water and electric hookups: Cape Ann Camp Site offers water and electric connections for RVs, with campers mentioning "water, sewer, and electric hookups" availability. The campground accommodates "all size RVs and tents" according to one visitor.
Tent sites often more private than RV areas: At many campgrounds near Sharon, the tent sites offer more seclusion than RV parking. A Cape Ann camper noted: "The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites," suggesting tent campers may enjoy more privacy despite the campground accommodating both types of camping.
