Located just 28 miles northeast of Boston, South Hamilton sits near the Atlantic coastline with an elevation of about 50 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers around 80°F and snowy winters that can drop below 20°F. Tent and yurt camping options near South Hamilton remain open from May through October, with most facilities closing before the first frost.
What to do
Beach exploration: 10 minutes from Cape Ann Camp Site in Gloucester offers quick access to coastal activities. "Beach down the street was big, beautiful and low tide was unexpected as you could walk for ever," notes Ron C., who enjoyed the nearby Rockport trails with "great views."
Hiking through Pawtuckaway State Park: This natural area features "excellent hiking, beach, wildlife-filled wetlands, birding, geology, forests, and water to enjoy," according to Harry H. The park has "pretty serious trail up and around some mountains, to a fire tower, ponds."
Kayaking on Pawtuckaway Lake: Pawtuckaway State Park Campground provides water access for paddling enthusiasts. "This a a fantastic little camp for if you want to go canoeing or kayaking or boating of any kind! It's set up of three islands and a large majority of the campsites are right on the water," says Matt R.
Visit historic Salem: Located 7 miles from South Hamilton, Salem offers attractions beyond typical Halloween festivities. "There's a trail around the park with markers, but they're not well maintained. Stay here if you want to be near the water or explore the region," explains Jean C. from Winter Island Park.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: The campgrounds near South Hamilton maintain high cleanliness standards. "This is one of the cleanest, most meticulously maintained campground we have been to. So quiet and peaceful as well. Wifi service was excellent," remarks Rebecca S. about Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort.
Waterfront camping sites: Many campers appreciate direct lake access. "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" notes J L. about Pawtuckaway State Park. Sites along the water typically cost $10-15 more per night than standard sites.
Convenient location: The proximity to beaches and towns makes this region practical for mixed itineraries. "Cape Ann is beautiful. Perfect location with access to Rockport - a beautiful place to visit, shop, eat & a great little trail with great views," says Ron C. at Cape Ann Camp Site.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Most campgrounds operate from May through October, with limited off-season availability. "Winter Island Park accepted our same day reservation for two nights and they're very reasonable rates," mentions Lisa M., noting the park's summer operations.
Reservation requirements: Book 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends and waterfront sites. "These sites book quickly, so you should try to book 7 months to the day in advance. That said, you can also look for last minute openings," advises Martha H. about yurt camping at Boston Harbor Islands.
Transportation planning: Consider ferry schedules when visiting island camping spots. "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," explains Jess G. Ferries typically run hourly during summer months with the last return around 6pm.
Weather preparedness: New England weather can change rapidly, especially near the coast. "In 2013 - site 25 was a little challenging since it was on a downgrade and we were hit with a an unexpected 36 hour downpour," recalls Ellen C. from Pawtuckaway State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with activities: Normandy Farms Campground offers extensive recreation options. "What's not to love. It's the kind of place summer camping trip memories are made of. 4 pools, fishing pond, lodge, trivia night, soccer, baseball, softball and frisbee golf and so much more," says Jennifer H.
Consider beach-adjacent options: Coastal campgrounds provide natural entertainment for children. "Winters island is a beautiful campground in Salem,ma. The kids had a great time by the sea and the playground. There is wildlife like skunks, raccoons do put food in car," advises Candace H.
Look for pet-friendly policies during specific seasons: Some parks have seasonal restrictions on dogs. "What a beautiful location! Tried to plan ahead this year and get a prime site to learn they don't allow dogs anywhere in the campground during summer months," notes Erin W. about camping at Pawtuckaway State Park.
Reserve yurts for more comfort with kids: The yurt camping options near South Hamilton provide amenities that simplify family trips. "The yurts on Peddocks are great, providing shelter from the elements, bunks with mattresses," says a visitor, while Martha H. adds that Boston Harbor Islands yurts have "bunk beds, a floor lamp, a table inside, a picnic table outside and a grill."
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have narrow entrance roads or limited turning radius. "The roads in the park are fairly narrow and we had to drive over the grass across from our site in order to back in. Lucky for us nobody was parked in that site," explains Nancy W. about Sea Coast Camping.
Full hookup availability: The Pines Camping Area and other local campgrounds offer varying levels of service. "There is no sewer hook up however, near the street there is a 'dump station,'" notes doris C., while Martin S. mentions that some campgrounds have "quite big but secluded spots at the same time. Nice and clean toilets and showers(paid)."
Reservation system quirks: "You do not get a choice during the online booking to choose the campsite to reserve & the site # is not included in the confirmation email," explains Sara D. about Tuxbury Pond RV Campground, recommending that RVers call ahead to request specific site numbers.
