Tent campsites near Swansea, Massachusetts offer unique overnight experiences ranging from remote islands to mainland woodland settings. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with most primitive sites requiring visitors to pack out all trash. Water access camping options provide alternatives to traditional campgrounds, with several locations accessible only by boat or requiring significant hiking.
What to do
Beach exploration and swimming: At Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites, visitors can enjoy both camping and beach activities. A camper notes, "This is one of the few places where you can sleep on the beach! The water is on the cold side but it's worth it. Beach camping is a very special thing."
Island exploration: When staying at Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground, take advantage of the inter-island ferries. As one visitor explains, "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."
Fort exploration: Several camping areas feature historical military installations. One camper at Boston Harbor Islands mentions, "Exploring the island was awesome. We found all kinds of bunkers and a brick house."
What campers like
Island seclusion: Campers at Washburn Island Campsites — Waquoit Bay Reserve appreciate the quieter experience, especially in shoulder seasons. "Camped there May 20-25 and there were only 1-2 other sites being used," reports one visitor.
Beach campfires: Sandy Neck Beach Park allows campfires directly on the beach during evening hours. A camper shares, "Right on the water, relaxing and sunny most of the time! Campfires allowed at night, and pets are allowed."
Rustic yurt options: For those wanting a more comfortable primitive experience, yurts offer a good alternative. A Boston Harbor Islands camper reports, "The yurts have bunk beds, a floor lamp, a table inside, a picnic table outside and a grill. Just getting to the island is a fun adventure."
What you should know
Water delivery services: Some primitive sites offer water delivery. At Sandy Neck, "A nice amenity is that the park staff will send someone to the sites to deliver 5 gallons of water for free as well as firewood for a small fee so you don't have to carry those resources."
Transportation logistics: For island camping near Swansea, planning transportation is crucial. A Buck Hill Campground visitor advises, "The area is heavily wooded without much else around and very few amenities. A few of the clusters have a covered patio area with electricity."
Limited facilities: Most tent sites in the region have minimal amenities. One camper notes, "There are a few rough restrooms and some porta-potties. There's a small somewhat sandy area that perhaps used to be a beach of sorts, though no lifeguards or anything."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for ferry schedules: When visiting island campgrounds, research transportation options. A Boston Harbor Islands camper advises, "Figuring out the schedule is the trickiest part, not least because they don't make the inter-island ferry schedule as readily accessible."
Gear transport solutions: Bring equipment to help transport camping gear. One visitor suggests, "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. There may or may not be carts available on the island."
Seasonal berry picking: Depending on when you visit, look for edible wild berries. A camper recounts, "In mid-August we collected handfuls of blackberries as we explored Peddocks."
Tips from RVers
Self-contained requirement: Some beach camping areas have specific RV requirements. A Sandy Neck camper explains, "You need a sandy neck ORV pass and a self contained camper (toilet) to camp here, but it's very worth it."
Limited RV options: Many camping areas near Swansea are primarily tent-focused with limited RV amenities. For RVers seeking more facilities, Frosty Hollow Camping Area in nearby Rhode Island offers tent sites with electric hookups.
Weather considerations: RVers should monitor wind conditions, especially at coastal sites. One Sandy Neck camper shared, "Took one more trip down for the end of the season, great weather but VERY windy."
