Tent camping near Swampscott, Massachusetts is accessible year-round, with the prime camping season running from May through October when temperatures average 65-80°F during summer months. Most campgrounds in this coastal region sit within 20 miles of Swampscott, offering both inland forest experiences and coastal settings. Winter camping options are limited due to seasonal closures at many facilities, though some remain open with reduced amenities.
What to do
Explore coastal trails: Cape Ann Camp Site in Gloucester provides access to nearby coastal paths with views of the Atlantic. "Cape Anne is beautiful. Perfect location with access to Rockport - a beautiful place to visit, shop, eat & a great little trail with great views," notes camper Ron C.
Visit historic forts: Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground offers opportunities to explore old military fortifications. "Exploring the island was awesome. We found all kinds of bunkers and a brick house," shares Jess G., who camped at Lovells Island.
Swimming and water recreation: Freshwater and saltwater swimming options exist within 30 minutes of most campsites. "The camp's location adjacent to Breakheart Reservation offers additional recreational opportunities including hiking trails, biking paths, and a pond for swimming," according to a visitor at Camp Nihan.
Wildlife observation: Military Park New Boston Air Force Station provides natural habitat viewing. "Great Outdoor Place! Nice scenery with fresh air and freedom sunshine!" reports Shuang W.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Many tent campers appreciate the secluded nature of sites. "We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area," writes Cristina P. about her stay at Cape Ann Camp Site.
Boston skyline views: Island camping offers unique perspectives of the city. "Sitting on the beach watching the sun set over Boston was awesome and made everything entirely worth it," says Jess G. about camping on Lovells Island.
Wildlife encounters: John S. mentioned Cape Ann has "Spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc." indicating good wildlife viewing opportunities for tent campers.
Natural beach access: Several campgrounds provide beach proximity without requiring driving. "Beach down the street was big, beautiful and low tide was unexpected as you could walk for ever," notes Ron C. about staying at Cape Ann.
What you should know
Ferry logistics: Camp Nihan Education Center offers mainland camping without boat transportation, while island camping requires planning. Jean C. advises: "Camping at Boston Harbor Islands requires some planning... Reservations open 6 months in advance and sites fill quickly."
Water availability: Water access varies significantly between campgrounds. Boston Harbor Islands campsites require bringing your own water, while mainland sites typically provide potable water.
Site terrain: Expect natural, ungraded surfaces at most locations. "The terrain is rugged enough to create an authentic forest camping feel while remaining accessible," notes one camper about Camp Nihan's setting.
Shower facilities: Pay showers are common at established campgrounds. "The showers require payment with quarters. I don't know how many quarters it takes because I don't carry change," reports Ben E. about Cape Ann Camp Site.
Tips for camping with families
Book well ahead: Family-friendly sites book quickly, especially during summer months. Martha H. recommends: "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."
Consider yurt options: Boston Harbor Islands offers alternative accommodations. "This campground has 6 yurts and 6 tent sites. The yurts have bunk beds, a floor lamp, a table inside, a picnic table outside and a grill," explains Martha H.
Pack transportation: For island camping, bringing a collapsible wagon helps with gear. "If you have a folding wagon, you may appreciate having it to carry items on and off the ferry and to your site on the island," advises Jean C.
Proximity matters: With younger children, choose sites with shorter walks to facilities. Michael V. notes that at Camp Nihan, "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."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent camping areas near Swampscott have restricted RV access. "We paid $60 a night for a 30 amp spot with water," reports Ben E. about Cape Ann Camp Site.
Site surface conditions: RV campers should note terrain varies by location. "The sites are all dirt. There is no concrete pads," explains one reviewer about Cape Ann, which affects leveling and setup.
Dump station locations: Full-service hookups are uncommon. "There is no sewer hook up however, near the street there is a dump station," notes a Cape Ann visitor, important for longer stays.
