Best Tent Camping in Massachusetts

New England is known for small, quaint towns tucked into lush foliage and rolling hills of small, quaint states. There are large and energetic cities that defy this image, but for those of us that live to explore the rugged, rural beauty, camping in Massachusetts has long been a hotspot for adventure seekers and laid-back vacationers alike.

For beach lovers, pitching a tent amongst the white sand dunes of Massachusetts’ Cape Cod is truly an experience of a lifetime. The shrubby black oak, stunted pitch pine, and delicate dune rose of this region offer the perfect backdrop to the roughly 400 miles of pristine shoreline. Bike along the Cape Cod Rail Trail for 22 miles of easy riding, as it weaves in and out of six Cape Cod towns along the Atlantic.

A few hours north, Boston awaits with its iconic history and big city vibes. For a fresh way to see Boston, head downtown and kayak along the Charles River, an 80 mile waterway that meanders in and out of Boston’s neighborhoods and riverside parks. After exploring Boston and the Charles River, hop on a shuttle ferry to the Boston Harbor Islands, where you can set up your tent and watch as the city skyline lights up the night sky above your campsite.

Craving a woodland camping adventure? Head inland to Western Massachusetts, where the Berkshires welcome you with rich, dense forests, exhilarating waterfalls, and a number of fantastic hikes along the Appalachian Trail. For this area, camping in Massachusetts’ State Parks is your best bet. Hike to the highest point in Massachusetts, Mount Greylock, where you’ll be rewarded with outstanding views of four other New England states. There is a campground on the mountain, but you’ll have to carry in your gear.

For further inspiration on camping in Massachusetts, as well as campground ratings and more, The Dyrt has all the information you’ll need to start planning your next adventure.

Best Tent Sites in Massachusetts (19)

    1. Winter Island Park

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

    $35 - $50 / night

    "We spent a weekend here on a tent site close to the beach. There was no parking at our site, but the parking lot was only 25 yards away so it was not an issue."

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

    2. Cape Ann Camp Site

    14 Reviews
    Gloucester, MA
    Website
    +1 (978) 283-8683

    $36 - $44 / night

    "Location works well. Very narrow road coming in after 128. More for smaller RVs and tent camping. Picnic tables could be replaced."

    "No wifi. There is a nice little store on-site for anything you forgot. It is also close enough to stores if you need more. Very close to a nice beach too."

    3. Tully Lake Recreation Area (MA) — Tully Lake

    9 Reviews
    Royalston, MA
    +1 (978) 249-9150

    $40 / night

    "Two tents allowed per site, no alcohol although no one checked. No water or electricity at the sites. You park & walk in but they provide carts. You have to buy firewood from them."

    "Tully Lake Campground is located in Royalston, MA, which is a northern part of Central Massachusetts, near the New Hampshire border."

    4. Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Hull, MA
    Website

    $8 - $70 / night

    "Campground review: Camping at Boston Harbor Islands requires some planning, but you get the benefit of a remote island with minimal company."

    "This campground has 6 yurts and 6 tent sites. 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."

    5. Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites

    4 Reviews
    West Barnstable, MA
    Website

    $20 / night

    "This is a really cool option for those interested in visiting Cape Cod and also backpacking. The park has 5 dispersed sites located 3-4 miles from the trailhead with picnic tables and an outhouse."

    "Took one more trip down for the end of the season, great weather but VERY windy"

    6. Wellfleet Hollow State Campground

    4 Reviews
    South Wellfleet, MA
    Website
    +1 (508) 349-3007

    $22 - $55 / night

    "A quiet campground in mid June - sites are close together but not many people this trip, quiet and friendly neighbors. Right on the rail trail."

    "We've been camping at Wellfleet Hollow (formerly Paine's Campground) for close to thirty years. "

    7. Zoar Outdoor

    3 Reviews
    Charlemont, MA
    Website
    +1 (413) 339-4010

    8. Camp Nihan Education Center

    2 Reviews
    Saugus, MA
    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."

    9. Laurel Ridge — Mount Everett State Reservation

    2 Reviews
    Taconic, MA

    "We actually started this hike in by Race Brook Falls area, and ended it where the GPS coordinates are noted. See the map in my photos marked with yellow lines."

    "We packed on our backpacks early in the morning and arrived there mid-afternoon. Very beautiful view, and an awesome spot! No fires allowed, however."

    10. Alander Trail Camground — Mount Washington State Forest

    2 Reviews
    Mount Washington, MA
    Website

    "Each spot is easy to find off the trail. They also have bear boxes at each site!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 19 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews in Massachusetts

847 Reviews of 19 Massachusetts Campgrounds



Guide to Massachusetts

Tent camping in Massachusetts offers a diverse range of experiences, from serene forest settings to coastal views, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers.

Tent campers should check out Lorraine Park Campground

  • Enjoy spacious and shaded sites at Lorraine Park Campground, where families can relax in a clean and friendly environment.
  • This campground features well-maintained facilities, including clean bathrooms and showers, ensuring a comfortable stay.
  • With a lovely pond for swimming and a playground for kids, it’s an ideal spot for family camping adventures.

Tips for tent camping near Winter Island Park

  • Winter Island Park provides easy access to Salem, making it a great base for exploring the city during Halloween festivities.
  • The campground offers a beautiful view for sunrise, perfect for early risers looking to enjoy nature's beauty.
  • While the sites are open and lack privacy, the proximity to the beach and local attractions makes it a worthwhile choice.

Tent campers like these nearby activities at Willard Brook State Forest

  • At Willard Brook State Forest, campers can enjoy hiking trails and swimming at the nearby pond, providing a refreshing escape into nature.
  • The campground is known for its quiet atmosphere, making it a great spot for those seeking solitude and relaxation.
  • With a large yurt available for group camping, it’s a unique option for families or friends looking to experience the outdoors together.