Tent camping near Walpole, Massachusetts offers both rustic experiences and family-friendly options within a 50-mile radius. Located in Norfolk County with elevations ranging from 150-490 feet, the area experiences typical New England seasons with humid summers and cold winters. Many campgrounds in this region operate seasonally, typically closing between mid-October and early May due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Water activities at Wakefield Pond: Buck Hill Campground in Rhode Island provides direct access to Wakefield Pond. A camper noted that "the water is clean and fine for swimming with a few areas that make for easy entry into the water (including the 'beach')." The pond is also "big enough lake for canoe/kayak/etc."
Historical exploration on islands: At Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground, campers can explore remnants of coastal defense structures. One visitor shared that "exploring the island was awesome. We found all kinds of bunkers and a brick house." Another camper mentioned the opportunity to "explore the old forts and visitors centers, earn a Junior Ranger badge from the National Park Service."
Berry picking in season: Seasonal fruits grow wild on several campgrounds. A camper at Boston Harbor Islands mentioned that "in mid-August we collected handfuls of blackberries as we explored Peddocks."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. At Cape Ann Camp Site, you can observe "wild turkeys, deer, etc." according to one camper. The wooded setting provides natural habitat for various New England wildlife.
What campers like
Wooded camping areas: Campers appreciate the natural forest settings. A visitor to Cape Ann Camp Site described it as "absolutely lovely when you actually pull in! We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area." Another noted "the sites are nice and wooded" with "beautiful tent sites."
Beach proximity: Several campgrounds offer convenient beach access. One camper at Cape Ann mentioned "great beach access and friendly staff," while another highlighted that the campground is "close to a nice beach" and "close enough to stores if you need more."
Group camping options: Camp Nihan Education Center offers dedicated group sites for organizations. A visitor commented that "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."
Island isolation: Boston Harbor Islands provides a unique experience of camping near a major city while feeling remote. A reviewer described it as an "oasis in the middle of the city," while another mentioned "camping at Boston Harbor Islands requires some planning, but you get the benefit of a remote island with minimal company."
What you should know
Transportation logistics: For Boston Harbor Islands, transportation requires advance planning. A visitor advised: "Check the ferry schedule. Figure out which departure makes the most sense for you. You may choose to leave from Long Wharf, near the Aquarium T stop on the Blue line, or from Hingham, with overnight parking available."
Payment systems: Several campgrounds have coin-operated amenities. At Cape Ann Camp Site, "showers require payment with quarters" at "25 cents per 5 minute hot shower" according to reviewers. One camper noted "I don't know how many quarters it takes because I don't carry change. So I washed my hair in the sink."
Campsite surfaces: Many tent sites are natural rather than prepared surfaces. At Frosty Hollow Camping Area, tent sites are primarily natural ground. A Cape Ann camper mentioned "the sites are all dirt. There is no concrete pads."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the region operate only during warmer months. Boston Harbor Islands is only "open during the summer months" with sites that "book quickly, so you should try to book 7 months to the day in advance."
Tips for camping with families
Shallow swimming areas: When camping with children, look for swimming areas with gradual entry points. Camp Nihan is "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."
Educational opportunities: Arcadia Backpack Camping Area provides nature education opportunities for families. At Boston Harbor Islands, one family mentioned that children can "earn a Junior Ranger badge from the National Park Service, fly a kite, or go for a swim or kayak."
Proximity to conveniences: Camp Nihan offers a blend of wilderness and convenience, described as the "perfect blend of rugged and convenient for small kid camping." A visitor noted it's "right in Saugus MA, less than 30 minutes from Boston" with "a recently renovated bathroom and shower facility makes clean ups easy."
Pack appropriately: For island camping, families should prepare for limited resources. A camper advised: "Pack as lightly as possible and plan to carry or wheel it to your site. 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."
Tips from RVers
Utility hookups: Cape Ann Camp Site offers various hookup options for RVers. A visitor mentioned "they have water, sewer, and electric hookups" though "there is no WIFI." The campground accommodates "all size RVs" according to one camper.
Site privacy levels: RV sites at Cape Ann have different privacy levels than tent areas. A camper observed that "the RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites" though the campground itself is "clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites."
Price points: Camping costs vary significantly by amenity level. One RVer at Cape Ann reported "we paid $60 a night for a 30 amp spot with water," providing a reference point for budgeting.
Dump station location: At Cape Ann, "near the street there is a 'dump station'" according to a visitor, though the same review mentioned "there is no sewer hook up" at the individual sites.
