Military-only camping is available at Hanscom AFB FamCamp, located just 13 miles northwest of Waverley. Most campgrounds near Waverley operate seasonally from May through October, though Ponkapoag Camp remains open year-round for those seeking winter camping options. The region features both coastal and woodland camping environments with elevations ranging from sea level at Boston Harbor Islands to approximately 635 feet at the Blue Hills Reservation sites.
What to do
Explore historic sites: Several campsites near Waverley provide strategic access to Revolutionary War landmarks. Spacious Skies Minute Man in Littleton serves as an excellent base for history enthusiasts. "Concord is only 30 minute drive away with two full days of revolutionary historic sites, and famous people home tours such as Louisa May Alcott. Lots of good coffee spots and restaurants in historic downtown Concord so spend a morning in this special city," notes Ann B.
Kayak Boston Harbor: For water-based activities, Winter Island Park in Salem offers direct ocean access. "The beach is interesting with some tide pools as well as sand and warm water. Life guards were paying attention," writes Lisa M. Campers can easily launch kayaks from their sites, with one reviewer noting: "Our site was large enough for an 8 person tent, 4 person tent, EZ Up, and a pop up dog house for our pooch. We also kept our 2 kayaks on our site during our stay."
Bike through state forests: The extensive trail networks at Wompatuck State Park Campground offer both paved and off-road options for cyclists. One camper recommends: "Definitely bring bikes to do some exploring. We found a large pond and an underground bunker to venture into." The park features miles of former military roads now converted to cycling paths, making it suitable for riders of various skill levels.
What campers like
Military convenience: Hanscom AFB FamCamp offers a quiet retreat for military families despite its proximity to a busy air base. A reviewer explains: "The campground is peaceful and quiet, although adjacent to a very busy AFB. Proximity to the base provides access to the base exchange and other facilities, but the quiet location is a recreational retreat centered around several indoor and outdoor gathering spaces."
Year-round options: Unlike most seasonal options, Ponkapoag Camp offers cabin camping throughout winter. "Spending Friday & Saturday in one of the cabins (w/woodstove) is ideal for a winter weekend adventure!" notes Stu L. Another camper adds: "Ponky is a hidden gem! Minutes from Boston, feels Miles away."
Accessibility to Boston: Campsites regularly mentioned for their convenient access to public transportation include Winter Island Park in Salem. "We spent a weekend here on a tent site close to the beach... We ordered pizza from Door Dash on our first night here, and that was a very easy experience as well," explains one camper, highlighting the unique blend of outdoor experience with urban conveniences.
What you should know
No alcohol policy: Massachusetts state parks prohibit alcohol consumption at campsites. One camper at Lorraine Park Campground noted: "Convenient location, but still let's you get away. Nice wooded sites. Only complaint about Massachusetts state parks is no alcohol even while sitting in your site."
Wildlife encounters: Some campgrounds report regular wildlife activity after dark. At Winter Island Park, one camper shared: "The cons were the noise during the day from the beachgoers, and the visits from racoons and skunks at night (scavenging the food left by the beachgoers). We ended up leaving earlier than planned to avoid another night with the skunk activity."
Weather considerations: Spring camping near Waverley often means dealing with seasonal precipitation. Sites at Circle Campground Farm were described as having "level sites, quiet, and very clean restrooms" but another camper noted road access challenges: "Roads are a little narrow which made backing in a little challenging. I had to use other sites to complete the back-in process."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Normandy Farms Campground features multiple swimming facilities. "They have an indoor and an outdoor pool. The restrooms are clean. I highly recommend staying here. It was a lot of fun," states Liz W. The campground maintains four pools including an indoor heated one, making it suitable for families even during cooler weather.
Educational programming: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led activities for children. At Camp Nihan Education Center, one visitor noted: "We went camping here with our SpiralScout Circle, kids aged 4-8. 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."
Playground access: When selecting family-friendly sites, consider facilities beyond just camping. Winter Island Park provides playground facilities alongside beach access. As Candace H. reports: "The kids had a great time by the sea and the playground. There are wildlife like skunks, raccoons do put food in car. Each site has a grill and shade."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Circle Campground Farm, RVers note the variable site conditions. "Site size was adequate. I'm 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," explains Sean R.
Hookup logistics: Pay attention to utility placement when booking. One camper at Circle Campground observed: "Good level site water and electric (full hook ups also available) electric box a little far from parking site had to use an extension cord."
Off-season availability: Several campgrounds offer extended seasons. At Spacious Skies Minute Man, a visitor in early spring reported: "Late April so there weren't too many campers in the park. Bathrooms were clean. Staff in the office were friendly and helpful."
