Camping options near Somerville, Massachusetts range from city-adjacent parks to woodlands within commuting distance of Boston. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with warm, humid summers from June through August (75-85°F) and cold winters from December through March (20-35°F). Several campgrounds operate year-round despite the seasonal New England climate, offering alternatives to the typical May-October camping season.
What to do
Explore historic sites and trails: Harold Parker State Forest offers numerous hiking and biking trails through wooded terrain. One camper noted, "Lots of biking/hiking/walking trails, a nice small pond/beach, boat access, a few basketball courts, a volleyball court and a common huge fire pit added to the fun. A ranger ran a program to teach about the area fauna which was pretty interesting for kids and adults alike."
Visit Cape Ann beaches: Cape Ann Camp Site provides easy access to nearby coastal areas. A visitor mentioned, "The beach was beautiful and enjoyed walking on the larger rocks. Also there's a beautiful lighthouse and some history plaques there." Another camper added, "Beach down the street was big, beautiful and low tide was unexpected as you could walk for ever."
Discover urban wilderness: At Ponkapoag Camp, you can explore unique wetland ecosystems just minutes from Boston. "Lots of good berry picking and trails," reported one camper. Another mentioned, "The kids can hang out in the clubhouse if it's raining or swim in the pond if it's hot. Lots of hiking trails."
What campers like
Secluded sites with woodsy feel: At Lorraine Park Campground in Harold Parker State Forest, campers appreciate the natural setting. "The site are huge with space in between. They keep the bathrooms very clean. There are lots of trails and ponds," wrote one visitor. Another noted, "Great campground. Close to town, but feels like you are in the middle of nowhere!"
Proximity to Boston with outdoor amenities: Hanscom AFB FamCamp offers military families a recreational retreat with urban access. "The campground is peaceful and quiet, although adjacent to a very busy AFB. Proximity to the base provides access to the base exchange and other facilities, but the quiet location is a recreational retreat centered around several indoor and outdoor gathering spaces."
Waterfront camping experiences: Visitors to Winter Island Park value the oceanfront setting. "Camping on the oceanfront was a rare treat!" shared one camper. Another said, "This campground is right on the ocean with incredible harbor views. It was an easy bike ride to the Salem Ferry to get access into Boston for the day."
What you should know
Reservation requirements and policies: Many campgrounds in the region require advance booking. At Wompatuck State Park Campground, pricing varies significantly. "For out-of-state visitors, the cost might not be justifiable, with rates of $17-23 per night for in-state visitors and $60 for out of staters."
Limited services at rustic campgrounds: Some sites offer minimal facilities. At Ponkapoag Camp, "It is rustic camping, no water or electricity and the bathroom is an outhouse and no showers." Similarly, at Winter Island Park, "25 cents per 5 minute hot shower is offered in the public restroom."
Alcohol policies vary: Alcohol is prohibited at state parks like Harold Parker and Wompatuck. One camper at Lorraine Park noted, "Only complaint about Massachusetts state parks is no alcohol even while sitting in your site." However, some private campgrounds allow alcohol consumption.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with recreation options: Spacious Skies Minute Man offers family-friendly amenities. "Heated pool, laundry, Wi-Fi that works, cable, 50 amp FHU. Roads are a little interesting to navigate, and definitely aren't the straight lines on their map!" Nearby attractions also provide entertainment options, as one visitor noted: "There are so many cool things to do just a short drive away."
Consider cabin camping for convenience: At Boston Harbor Islands, families can opt for yurts instead of tent camping. "The yurts on Peddocks are great, providing shelter from the elements, bunks with mattresses, electricity, a ceiling fan, table with benches, and a grill."
Check bathroom facilities beforehand: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. At Winter Island Park, "The camp ground has a full time bathroom attendant from 8 AM to 8 PM, so restrooms and showers were well kept." Conversely, at Wompatuck State Park, a camper reported, "Bathrooms are out dated showers have tiles falling off very small showers."
Tips from RVers
Consider campground access limitations: At Normandy Farms Campground, RVers encounter controlled entry. "Entry is gated and controlled. Want to bring your college daughter back after dinner- forget it, $20 for her and $20 her friend, for 1-2 hour visit after 7:00 PM at night!" However, the campground offers excellent amenities for longer stays.
Look for pull-through availability: Several campgrounds offer pull-through sites for easier access. At Spacious Skies Minute Man, one camper mentioned, "Site seems level for the most part, made of gravel." Another noted at Normandy Farms, "Our site was easy to navigate in and out of and was definitely big rig-friendly with ample space for our motorhome and tow car."
Check hookup locations and layout: At Winter Island Park, RV sites may be in unexpected locations. "Many of the RV sites are located in the main parking lot; others are in a field just to the right of the entrance." Similarly, at Minute Man, one visitor noted, "Electric box a little far from parking site had to use an extension cord."
