Tent camping near Sheldonville, Massachusetts offers primitive camping experiences in both woodlands and coastal settings. Located approximately 35 miles southwest of Boston, the area features variable weather patterns with summer high temperatures averaging 82°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Most primitive camping areas in the region require permits through state reservation systems, with May through September offering optimal camping conditions.
What to do
Explore historic forts: On Boston Harbor Islands State Park, campers can investigate military fortifications dating back to the Revolutionary War. "Exploring the island was awesome. We found all kinds of bunkers and a brick house," notes reviewer Jess G. who camped at Lovells Island.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds and lakes near the Sheldonville area provide fishing access for campers. At Buck Hill Campground, one camper reported, "The area is heavily wooded without much else around and very few amenities... Thos is the type of campground to just come and unwind, fish, cook, etc don't expect much else."
Blackberry foraging: Seasonal berry picking enhances the camping experience in late summer. "In mid-August we collected handfuls of blackberries as we explored Peddocks," reports Jean C. who visited Boston Harbor Islands.
Inter-island exploration: The Harbor Islands ferry system allows campers to visit multiple islands. "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," writes Martha H. about her experience at Peddocks Island.
What campers like
Rustic separation: Many campsites offer genuine wilderness experiences despite proximity to urban areas. At Camp Nihan Education Center, Michael V. appreciated that "the terrain is rugged enough that it always felt like we were really in the woods."
Swimming access: Natural water features provide swimming opportunities at multiple campgrounds near Sheldonville. Brandy G. noted that Boston Harbor Islands offers "great amenities, swimming, fishing, great family adventure."
Sunset views: Coastal campsites provide exceptional evening vistas. When camping at Lovells Island, Jess G. shared, "Sitting on the beach watching the sun set over Boston was awesome and made everything entirely worth it."
Beachcombing: Several coastal sites offer opportunities for collecting natural treasures. Jean C. suggests visitors "look for sea glass on Spectacle Island" when visiting the Harbor Islands system.
What you should know
Transportation logistics: Getting to island campsites requires 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," explains Jess G. about reaching Lovells Island.
Water requirements: Many primitive sites lack potable water. "Make sure that you bring enough drinking water and that you are ok with using the composting bathroom or going in the woods," advises Jess G. about camping on Lovells Island.
Limited facilities: Many Sheldonville-area campgrounds offer minimal amenities. Buck Hill Campground provides "a few rough restrooms and some porta-potties," according to Greg R., who notes the campground's no-frills nature.
Site accessibility: Walk-in requirements at some campgrounds necessitate planning. "Pack as lightly as possible and plan to carry or wheel it to your site," recommends Jean C. regarding Boston Harbor Islands camping.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow swimming areas: When camping with young children, seek out protected swimming spots. Breakheart Reservation, adjacent to Camp Nihan, features "a great shallow pond with life guard on duty as well as bike trails and a range of different hikes," according to Michael V.
Multiple tent sites: Groups with children need space for multiple tents. Greg R. reports Buck Hill Campground has "sites in large clusters (each can accommodate 10+ tents)" making it suitable for family gatherings.
Junior Ranger opportunities: Educational programs enhance children's camping experiences. Jean C. suggests families "earn a Junior Ranger badge from the National Park Service" while visiting Boston Harbor Islands.
Ferry adventures: For many children, transportation becomes part of the adventure. Martha H. notes, "Just getting to the island is a fun adventure" when describing Peddocks Island camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: The immediate Sheldonville area offers few developed RV sites with hookups. Water's Edge Campground in Coventry, RI (about 30 minutes from Sheldonville) provides electric hookups, water access, sanitary dump stations and 30-amp service for smaller RVs.
Reservation requirements: RV sites near Sheldonville typically require advance booking, especially during summer months. Tim S. recently confirmed Boston Harbor Islands camping "is back open and lovely" after pandemic closures, but capacity remains limited.
Alternative accommodations: For RVers seeking more developed facilities, consider the yurts available at Boston Harbor Islands. "The yurts have bunk beds, a floor lamp, a table inside, a picnic table outside and a grill," reports Martha H., providing an alternative to traditional RV camping.
