Camping options near Woburn, Massachusetts range from wooded state parks to oceanfront sites, all within a 30-mile radius. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer highs averaging 80°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October, with weekend reservations filling up several months in advance.
What to Do
Explore historical sites from your base camp: Cape Ann Camp Site serves as an excellent jumping-off point for historical excursions. "Cape Ann Campground is located close to Gloucester and Rockport. The campground is clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites," notes Della S. Many campers appreciate its proximity to local attractions.
Visit the beach between camping adventures: Winter Island Park provides oceanfront camping with beach access. "We camped in tents and loved this campground. The restrooms were very clean and being cleaned constantly. The beach was beautiful and enjoyed walking on the larger rocks," shares Heather P. The park offers opportunities to explore tidepools and coastal terrain.
Discover Boston Harbor Islands: Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground requires planning but rewards with unique experiences. "Camping at Boston Harbor Islands requires some planning, but you get the benefit of a remote island with minimal company. Unless you book one of the 12 yurts on Peddocks island, the camping is rustic; you'll need to bring everything, including water," explains Jean C. Reservations open six months in advance with sites filling quickly.
What Campers Like
Wooded campsites with good separation: Lorraine Park Campground at Harold Parker State Forest offers secluded sites. "The site are huge with space in between. They keep the bathrooms very clean. There are lots of trails and ponds," reports Kelly F. This campground maintains a natural setting while remaining accessible.
Military campground convenience: Hanscom AFB FamCamp provides well-maintained facilities for eligible military families. "Clean facilities, super quick access to the beach, friendly staff, sites are pretty close together with little separation between each other," explains Sara D. The campground includes both RV sites with hookups and more secluded walk-in tent sites.
Heated pools and family amenities: Campers value the facilities at Spacious Skies Minute Man. "Nestled among tall pines is this hidden gem. Sites are moderately sized in good condition and we experienced no noise issues during our week here. Pool is small but quality. We enjoyed the ping pong table!! Also have arcade, volleyball, and pet walk area," writes Mary F.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, particularly during peak season. "This is a nice spot to stop. It has e/w/s hook up and an ok shower facility that needs a bit of a facelift. Dogs are welcome but there really isn't a space/park area for them to run off leash," notes Damesha W. about Hanscom AFB FamCamp.
Alcohol policies vary by location: Wompatuck State Park Campground prohibits alcohol consumption. "Lastly, be aware that alcohol and outside firewood are prohibited at this campsite," warns Paulina B. Enforcement of these policies differs between state and private campgrounds.
Shower facilities: Some campgrounds charge for shower use. "25 cents per 5 minute hot shower is offered in the public restroom," reports Doris C. about Cape Ann Camp Site. Others provide free showers but with varying levels of cleanliness and maintenance.
Tips for Camping with Families
Scout multiple campgrounds for the best family experience: Normandy Farms Campground stands out for family amenities. "This camping experience was fantastic. We have been here 3 times and will be back. Has everything you could want. Outdoor pool was heated and wonderful. Pet park is great and catch and release pond," shares Gale S.
Look for campgrounds with recreational facilities: Many locations offer playgrounds and organized activities. "Great spot, clean, fun and easy access. So many of our camping friends love this place so we figured we'd try it - outstanding," notes Douglas L. about Normandy Farms.
Consider proximity to attractions: Families appreciate campgrounds with nearby activities. "The White Mountains, New Hemisphere, is a must, worth the short drive especially if you can go in early October, when the leaves are changing. Boston is only 40 minutes away, and the best of Maine is also very close," recommends Adam P. about Spacious Skies Minute Man.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup placement before selecting sites: At some campgrounds, utility connections may be inconveniently located. "The electrical post and water hookup were placed way behind our site and we could not reach even with our 40' electrical cord. Park staff told us we could back onto the grass in order to reach the electric," explains Nancy W. about Salisbury Beach State Reservation.
Verify dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dump stations. "The dump station is not on site; ask at the office about arrangements for this," advises Jean C. Some locations have nearby facilities or can direct you to appropriate disposal locations.
Confirm size accommodations: Many of the best places to camp near Woburn have site size limitations. "The sites' privacy is very diverse. 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," explains Migdalia G. about Lorraine Park Campground.
