The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Campgrounds near Waltham, MA

706 Reviews

Camping options near Waltham, Massachusetts range from developed RV parks to more primitive tent sites within a 30-mile radius of the city. The Ponkapoag Camp in Milton offers cabin and tent camping about 13 miles south of Waltham, while Hanscom AFB FamCamp in Bedford provides military families access to RV sites, tent camping, and a yurt approximately 7 miles northwest. Several state parks and private campgrounds in the region accommodate various camping styles, with some facilities like Spacious Skies Minute Man offering cabin rentals alongside traditional tent and RV sites.

Massachusetts state park regulations influence the camping experience throughout the region, with most campgrounds operating seasonally from May through October. Many campgrounds near Waltham require advance reservations, particularly during summer weekends. "This campground is superlatively convenient if you live in the Boston area," noted one visitor about Ponkapoag Camp, highlighting its accessibility for city dwellers seeking quick nature retreats. Cell service varies across the region but is generally reliable near developed campgrounds. Most state park campgrounds prohibit alcohol consumption, which several reviewers mentioned as a limitation. Winter camping options are extremely limited, with most facilities closing after Columbus Day weekend.

Campers particularly value sites with water access and shade trees, common features at several campgrounds within driving distance of Waltham. Harold Parker State Forest receives positive reviews for its spacious wooded sites, with one camper noting, "All sites have water which is a plus. All have a fire pit/box, charcoal bbq and a picnic table." The proximity to Boston remains a key advantage for most camping areas, allowing visitors to combine urban exploration with outdoor recreation. Many campgrounds in the region feature hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and some offer swimming areas during summer months. Visitors seeking quieter experiences typically recommend mid-week stays or spring/fall visits when campgrounds operate at reduced capacity and temperatures are more moderate.

Map showing campgrounds near Waltham, MassachusettsExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Waltham, Massachusetts (96)

    1. Lorraine Park Campground — Harold Parker State Forest

    33 Reviews
    North Reading, MA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 475-7972

    $17 - $35 / night

    "north of Boston and <5 miles from the interstate, Lorraine Park campground at Harold Parker State Forest provides ample on-site activities and also serves as a jumping off point for exploring the Massachusetts"

    "You could be tucked away from everyone or closer together depending on the site you choose but they are all pretty decent in size. All sites have water which is a plus."

    2. Hanscom AFB FamCamp

    10 Reviews
    Bedford, MA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (781) 225-3953

    "The campground offers RV sites, some with hookups, as well as more walk-in secluded tent sites as well as one yurt tent. The campground is peaceful and quiet, although adjacent to a very busy AFB."

    "Close to minute man historical sites- revolutionary war historical trails and Ranger Station. Not too far from Boston."

    3. Spacious Skies Minute Man

    28 Reviews
    Ayer, MA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 772-0042

    $39 - $999 / night

    "The pool is huge and clean and there is a ton of seating around. The shop has everything you could need. There are horseshoes, can jam, basketball, and bocce. There’s a playground and a rec room."

    "Easily accessible by car to shopping, groceries, etc. but no hiking or good walking paths from the campground."

    4. Wompatuck State Park Campground

    43 Reviews
    Hingham, MA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (617) 895-8245

    $17 - $23 / night

    "Ours (R002) was large, beautiful, and mostly surrounded by forest."

    "I chose a spot away from others and was glad I did. Behind me was nothing but quiet woods and a deer meandered through a couple times."

    5. Normandy Farms Campground

    40 Reviews
    Foxborough, MA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (866) 673-2767

    $50 - $200 / night

    "The staff was positive and helpful and that made a difference for me. I traditionally dry camp or go for semi hooked up on purpose, I just like the quieter camping."

    "Driving around this place is definitely not a typical campground but more of a luxury camp because of all of the amenities. That being said it was very nice and felt safe."

    6. Ponkapoag Camp

    6 Reviews
    Randolph, MA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (781) 961-7007

    $20 - $65 / night

    "The area around Ponkapog is beautiful, showcasing a wetland climate that, while common, is an integral part of the Massachusetts ecosystem that many people don’t even realize is within a stones throw."

    "The camp is on a beautiful piece of wooded land surrounding a large pond/lake. There are about 25 rustic cabins, and a few tent sites dispersed throughout the camping area."

    7. Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Hull, MA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (781) 740-1605

    $8 - $55 / night

    "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."

    "You may choose to leave from Long Wharf, near the Aquarium T stop on the Blue line, or from Hingham, with overnight parking available."

    8. Winter Island Park

    14 Reviews
    Salem, MA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 745-9430

    $35 - $105 / night

    "Many of the RV sites are located in the main parking lot; others are in a field just to the right of the entrance."

    "We drove 3-1/2 days from Idaho to get to a COVID testing site which would take non MA residents and turn the results around under 48 hours. We needed quiet camping and not have it cost a fortune."

    9. Camp Nihan Education Center

    2 Reviews
    Saugus, MA
    14 miles
    Website

    "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."

    10. Circle Campground Farm Campground

    7 Reviews
    Franklin Town, MA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (508) 966-1136

    $45 - $75 / night

    "Im guessing these sites will be considered "close" to "moderately close" by other site standards but it housed my 24ft trailer, truck, and my family just fine. Roads are a little narrow which made"

    "Everything you need 100% Everything clean 100% EASY Access to all attractions 100% We did Boston (caught the train), Salem, mystic seaport, Sturbridge village, plymouth rock, the Mayflower ship, and plymouth"

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 96 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Waltham Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Camping Photos near Waltham, MA

355 Photos of 96 Waltham Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Waltham, MA

706 Reviews of 96 Waltham Campgrounds

  • Phillip H.
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Boston/Cape Cod KOA

    Koa Cape Cod

    Stayed in several KOAs over last few weeks. I would say needs attention. Appearance is not up to standard. Restrooms and grounds are not as clean by comparison.

  • Kathleen S.
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Normandy Farms Campground

    Loud and crowded!

    Know what you are getting... This is a family resort that charges$20/per night, per person, OVER the two people rate. It is loud, crowded, with golf carts and kids running around. It is a resort campground with pools, frisbee court and etc... This is not a quiet, restful place to stay to visit Boston and the surrounding area or to visit family in town. Entry is gated and controlled. Want to bring your college daughter back after dinner- forget it,$20 for her and$20 her friend, for 1-2 hour visit after 7:00 PM at night! When we return, we will stay at Spacious Skies CG or the state park. The cost and inconvenience is not worth it!

  • S
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Salisbury Beach State Reservation

    Only a 4 because of out of stater price

    Campsites are close together, but the beach is amazing. Especially in the off season.

  • Mindie C.
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Hanscom AFB FamCamp

    Great stop

    Lovely campground. Clean, good WiFi. Kind campers. Will be back

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Massasoit State Park Campground

    Campsite was great, staff was rough

    I loved our campsite. But the staff was pretty rude. I was there for a family reunion. I told the staff my mom and dad would be dropping me off the next day, so they added their name to the site as it is a mile walk in. They didn’t give us another car tag, just said if there names were in the site we were good. Next night, we get dropped off in the rain, with a 50 lb bag of dog food and they wouldn’t let me parents take me to my site. Eventually we convinced them of we left my dad and sister at the front gate with them in the pouring rain, my mom could drive us in. They never even checked our reservation to see if the names were in there. Bring a car if you are camping here in a motorhome

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Woodmore Family Campground and RV Park

    Good Campground

    Stayed for over a week off season , mid September. Very quiet during the week , weekend is Party Time when the gang pulls in on Friday Night. Very loud until after 10:00 on Friday / Saturday. 50 percent or more is seasonal camp sites. Sites in back are ok with trees and different levels. Sites are a little closer than I usually find. Neighbors are very considerate on site privacy. Owners are exceptionally helpful and work hard to keep the site functioning and clean. Coin operated showers with hot water, mostly nice and clean except after a crowd gets packed and checks out Sunday AM. Laundry room takes quarters for machines. Small store at office which was open every day. Game room with wi fi. Pool , playground , volleyball area. Good size wood bundle for $10 , delivered directly to your site. Lake access with kayaks , some local hiking. Major grocery store nearby along with Walmart.

  • SkipperAllen C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Wompatuck State Park Campground

    Very nice stopover

    Good place to spend the night.It was quiet comfortable and plenty of room between campsites

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Beach Rose RV Park

    Nice park

    Owners were helpful on arrival, level concrete pad full hookups. Sites close together but quiet.

Guide to Waltham

Camping near Waltham, Massachusetts, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds nearby, you can enjoy nature while still being close to the city.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Bear Brook State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "There are hiking trails throughout the campground," making it a perfect spot for those who love to trek.
  • Water Activities: At Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, you can easily launch a kayak. A reviewer said, "Lots of great spots on the water, easy to put a kayak in from."
  • Family Fun: Normandy Farms Campground is packed with activities for kids. One camper noted, "It has so many things for the kids to do."

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the large, private sites at Greenfield State Park Campground. A long-time visitor said, "If you like large sites in a wooded setting with many private ones, this is the place."
  • Clean Facilities: Many enjoy the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A reviewer from George Washington State Campground mentioned, "Bathrooms were very clean with hot showers."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. One visitor at Wompatuck State Park Campground said, "The staff was friendly and helpful, with park rangers making regular rounds."

What you should know:

  • No Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Bear Brook State Park Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A camper noted, "No hookups in the campground, and sites are hit or miss with tree coverage."
  • Pet Policies: If you're bringing a pet, check the rules. At Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, pets are allowed on trails but not in the campground during summer. A reviewer pointed out, "Leashed pets are welcome on hiking trails only."
  • Crowded Weekends: Expect busier crowds on weekends. A visitor at Greenfield State Park Campground mentioned, "The weekend was packed! Our neighbors were playing karaoke till 11pm."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan Activities: Choose campgrounds with family-friendly activities, like Normandy Farms Campground, which has a variety of games and crafts. A parent shared, "It has tons of activities for kids."
  • Bring Bug Spray: Some areas, like Greenfield State Park Campground, have mosquitoes. One camper advised, "You will need mosquito repellent."
  • Check for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds or swimming areas. A reviewer at Lorraine Park Campground said, "There is a well-maintained playground for kids."

Tips from RVers:

  • Leveling Blocks: Some sites may not be level, so bring leveling blocks. A visitor at Normandy Farms Campground noted, "We basically had to park sideways and use a lot of leveling blocks."
  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Boston/Cape Cod KOA mentioned, "Some of the FHU sites are pretty tight."
  • Dump Station Availability: Look for campgrounds with dump stations, like Bear Brook State Park Campground, which has one available. A camper said, "Dump station clean lake clean sites."

Camping around Waltham, MA, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a family getaway or a peaceful retreat in nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of camping accommodations are available near Waltham?

The Waltham area offers diverse camping options from rustic tent sites to full-service RV parks. Ponkapoag Camp provides convenient tent camping for Boston-area residents with wooded sites. For RV enthusiasts, Beach Rose RV Park in Salisbury offers full hookups, clean facilities, and a swimming pool. Other options near Waltham include state forest campgrounds with basic tent sites, some offering electric hookups, and private campgrounds with cabins. Massachusetts state parks typically feature level sites in wooded settings, though most prohibit alcohol consumption even at your campsite. Many campgrounds in the region require reservations, especially during peak summer months.

Where are the campgrounds near Waltham, MA?

Several campgrounds are within driving distance of Waltham. Lorraine Park Campground — Harold Parker State Forest is less than 25 miles north of Boston, offering a convenient getaway with wooded sites. Willard Brook State Forest Campground in north/central Massachusetts provides a small, pine-surrounded camping area near Damon Pond. Other options include Spacious Skies Minute Man and Camp Nihan Education Center for those seeking spots closer to the city. For those willing to drive a bit further, Salisbury Beach State Reservation provides oceanfront camping. Most campgrounds near Waltham require advance reservations, especially during summer weekends and holidays.

What are the best-rated campgrounds around Waltham for families?

Wells State Park Campground in Sturbridge consistently receives excellent ratings for families. Located on Walker Pond, it offers swimming, fishing, hiking, and biking opportunities with newly renovated bathroom facilities. The park features well-marked trails of varying difficulty levels. Otter River State Forest is another highly-rated family destination in north central Massachusetts, described as a "hidden gem" with clean, well-maintained sites. The campground offers swimming in a pond, and camping passes also cover access to a nearby larger lake. Both locations feature family-friendly atmospheres, though like all Massachusetts state parks, they prohibit alcohol consumption.

Keep Exploring