Tent camping near Tewksbury, Massachusetts typically experiences high humidity in summer months with temperatures averaging 80-85°F during the day and 60-65°F at night. The region sits at a relatively low elevation of 100-150 feet above sea level, contributing to its abundant water features and dense woodlands. Campgrounds within driving distance of Tewksbury offer varying terrain from rocky coastal settings to inland forest environments with both private and public management systems.
What to do
Paddle exploration opportunities: At Tully Lake Recreation Area in Royalston, campers can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards directly from the campground. The lake features multiple islands and secluded shoreline areas perfect for day exploration. "You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax. It's a beautiful area right in your own back yard," notes one camper.
Disc golf courses: Near Tully Lake dam, a popular disc golf course attracts players throughout summer months. The course winds through wooded terrain with elevation changes for various skill levels. One visitor mentioned, "The disc golf course is also near the dam and was seeing a fair amount of activity."
Waterfall hiking trails: Doane's Falls near Tully Lake offers an accessible hiking option featuring five cascading waterfalls along a wooded trail. "There's an easy hike close to the entrance, along Doane's Falls, a series of 5 waterfalls along an ascending path through a wooded area. The views are beautiful," shares a regular visitor.
What campers like
Walk-in site privacy: Many campers appreciate the car-free camping areas at Cape Ann Camp Site in Gloucester. "We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area. It doesn't look like much but it is absolutely lovely when you actually pull in!" reports a reviewer. The separation between sites creates a more peaceful experience.
Beach access options: Coastal locations provide easy beach access for swimming and shore exploration. "Beach down the street was big, beautiful and low tide was unexpected as you could walk for ever," explains a Cape Ann camper. Multiple beaches within walking or short driving distance expand recreation possibilities beyond campground boundaries.
Fall shoulder season benefits: Camping in September through mid-October offers reduced crowds and pleasant temperatures typically ranging from 55-70°F. "We went memorial day weekend few years ago, busy holiday of young teens partying... Loud throughout," notes one camper about peak season crowds at popular sites, suggesting off-peak visits might provide a better experience.
What you should know
Campsite access logistics: At several locations like Tully Lake, vehicles cannot access individual campsites. "You park at the entrance, register with Ranger. Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site. (This means no noise or disturbances from cars entering your camp sites)," explains a camper. Sites vary in distance from parking areas from 50 yards to nearly a mile.
Limited cell service: Many camping areas near Tewksbury have poor or nonexistent cell coverage. "Cell coverage is pretty close to absent or poor in most of the area, so download any maps you might want (driving, trail, geocaching) before you arrive," advises a visitor to Tully Lake.
Bathroom and shower facilities: Centralized facilities mean varying walks from campsites. A Boston Harbor Islands State Park visitor notes, "Make sure that you bring enough drinking water and that you are ok with using the composting bathroom or going in the woods." At other locations, coin-operated showers require quarters, with one campground charging "25 cents per 5 minute hot shower."
Tips for camping with families
Group site advantages: Camp Nihan Education Center in Saugus offers family-friendly group camping options. "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. A recently renovated bathroom and shower facility makes clean ups easy," reports a family camper.
Waterfront safety considerations: While many campsites offer water access, dedicated swimming areas with lifeguards provide safer options for children. "The camp is also adjacent to Breakheart Reservation, which had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty as well as bike trails and a range of different hikes," shares a visitor about Camp Nihan.
Island camping preparation: For families considering the unique experience of island camping, substantial preparation is required. "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. After that we waited and got on a much smaller island to Lovells," explains one family.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: RV camping options near Tewksbury vary significantly in service availability. "We paid $60 a night for a 30 amp spot with water," reports a Cape Ann visitor, noting the lack of sewer hookups at many sites despite the RV accommodation.
Site surface considerations: Many campgrounds feature natural surfaces rather than concrete pads. "The sites are all dirt. There is no concrete pads. There is no WIFI. There is no sewer hook up however, near the street there is a 'dump station'," explains a Cape Ann reviewer.
Campground layout impacts: Size and accessibility of sites varies between locations. Cape Ann Camp Site accommodates larger vehicles with "water, sewer, and electric hookups," though without WiFi. The reviewer added that "all size RVs and tents are welcome," making it one of the more versatile options for tent camping near Tewksbury, Massachusetts.
