Located just outside of Boston, Southfield camping options are nestled among coastal pine forests and kettle ponds formed by retreating glaciers. The region features over 20 miles of maintained hiking trails and several campgrounds that remain open from April through November. Summer temperatures average between 75-85°F with occasional coastal fog in the mornings.
What to do
Explore historic forts: On Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground, visitors can discover remnants of military history. "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," explains Martha H., who enjoyed the island's mix of nature and history.
Visit Plymouth attractions: Camp within 10 miles of Plymouth's historic sites at Pinewood Lodge Campground. "Convenient to all kinds of shopping and touristy things," notes Jim N Kim P. The campground serves as an ideal base for exploring Plymouth Rock, Plimoth Plantation, and other colonial landmarks.
Seasonal blackberry picking: Collect wild berries along forest trails during summer months. "In mid-August we collected handfuls of blackberries as we explored Peddocks," writes Jean C., who discovered this natural treat while hiking the island paths.
Kayak on kettle ponds: Several campgrounds offer access to clear spring-fed ponds. "The pond water was very clear, seeing as they are fed from natural springs under the ponds," Kyle C. observed at Myles Standish State Forest, where paddlers can explore multiple connected waterways.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Myles Standish State Forest offers spacious, shaded camping areas. "Our site was wooded and pretty private for a state campground. We had plenty of room and the site had a fire pit and picnic table," shares Kim R., who appreciated the forest setting.
Waterfront views: Winter Island Park provides oceanfront camping with urban convenience. "We spent a weekend here on a tent site close to the beach. There was no parking at our site, but the parking lot was only 25 yards away," notes Cynthia K., who enjoyed the seaside location.
Modern amenities: Normandy Farms Campground offers upscale facilities for glamping in Southfield, Massachusetts area. "They have an indoor and an outdoor pool. The restrooms are clean. I highly recommend staying here," states Liz W., highlighting the campground's resort-style comforts.
Dog-friendly options: Many campgrounds accommodate pets with dedicated facilities. "Two dogs parks are a huge benefit for us as well," shares Jim N Kim P. about Pinewood Lodge, which provides separate areas for dogs to exercise off-leash.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book early, especially for island sites. "These sites book quickly, so you should try to book 7 months to the day in advance," advises Martha H. regarding the popular glamping yurts near Southfield, Massachusetts.
Ferry logistics: Boston Harbor Islands requires transportation 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., detailing the multi-step journey to the islands.
Cost considerations: Campground prices vary significantly. "It's a little on the pricey side, but has great amenities for campers with kids and pets," notes Cendy G. about Normandy Farms, while state parks typically offer lower rates with fewer amenities.
Site selection: Research specific campsite locations. "Some locations offer less space between campsites, some more," Kyle C. points out, emphasizing the importance of choosing sites based on privacy preferences.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Boston/Cape Cod KOA provides extensive recreation options. "As we pulled around the office we saw all kinds of activities for kids. Bouncy 'pillow', pool, bounce pad, sluice, miniature golf, and a playground," Samantha S. describes, highlighting the family-friendly amenities.
Scheduled activities: Some campgrounds offer organized programs. "The activities for kids is the draw for this campground for sure. My kids loved the train rides, movie night, flash light candy hunt, and arts and crafts," Amy G. shares about the KOA's family programming.
Beach swimming options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas with lifeguards. "The beach (at Charged Pond) had a nice sandy section and a bathhouse," notes Kim R., describing the family-friendly swimming area at Myles Standish State Forest.
Island adventure camping: Boston Harbor Islands offers unique overnight experiences for families. "Just getting to the island is a fun adventure. This is a great adventure for kids," Martha H. explains, highlighting how the journey itself becomes part of the experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Winter Island Park, RV placement requires planning. "Many of the RV sites are located in the main parking lot; others are in a field just to the right of the entrance," Jean C. advises, noting the varied layout options.
Urban access options: Winter Island provides good commuting options. "It was an easy bike ride to the Salem Ferry to get access into Boston for the day," Rae M. shares, highlighting transportation alternatives from the campground.
Utility availability: Full hookup options vary by campground. "They have water electric sewage hook ups and overall. It was a great experience and the staff made it great," reports Brandy G., who appreciated the convenient amenities.
Space considerations: Some campgrounds have tight arrangements. "I booked a basic 30 amp fullhook up campsite and it was so tight that unfortunately I did not enjoy it as much as I wanted to," Janet P. cautions about site selection at Boston/Cape Cod KOA, recommending upgrading to premium sites for more space.
