Massachusetts Camping: A Guide to Woods, Shores, and Everything Between

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From the New England shores of Cape Cod to the western Taconic Mountains, this state showcases some of the best natural landscapes in the U.S. Outdoor enthusiasts travel from across the country to experience the beauty themselves through camping. If you’re heading this way or considering making your next camping trip in Massachusetts, don’t miss these top 10 campgrounds that suit every adventure style.

Top 10 Camping Destinations in Massachusetts

Mountains, beaches, forests, and everything in between. Here’s your guide to the best places to camp in Massachusetts.

Nickerson State Park

Nickerson State Park in Brewster is tucked into the heart of Cape Cod, a perfect getaway for coast lovers. Its freshwater kettle ponds (formed by historic glacial activity) are popular for swimming, fishing, and boating. Beyond that, there’s plenty to explore via hiking trails and bike paths that wind through the 400 campsites and fresh pine forests. If you prefer something different from typical tent camping, try the available yurt and cabin options.

Features: Eight crystal-clear kettle ponds ideal for swimming and fishing.
Facilities: Showers, accessible restrooms, ranger station, dump station, comfort station, camp store, boat rental, boat launch.
Things to Know: Open from mid-April to late October. Alcohol is prohibited in the park. Reservations are recommended during the busy summer season.

Myles Standish State Forest

Myles Standish State Forest is Massachusetts’ largest publicly owned recreation area, with over 12,000 acres of land to explore. Here, you’ll find Charge Pond, a beautiful spot for canoeing and kayaking. Enjoy horseback riding, biking, and hiking, with plenty of space to explore. The lush forest provides great shade for warmer summers. You can even bring your furry friend if you keep them safely on a leash.

Features: Charge Pond is great for canoeing or kayaking. Over 12,000 acres of land to explore.
Facilities: Restrooms, showers, comfort station, dump station, horse trails, clean drinking water, horse camping, hiking trails, and bike paths.
Things to Know: Open seasonally from April to October. Pets are allowed if leashed. Reservations are highly advised during the summer months.

Mount Greylock State Reservation

If heights are your thing, wander over to Mount Greylock, the highest peak in the state, with an elevation of 3,489 feet. Along the way, you may cross paths with some of the 3 million hikers who cross the Appalachian Trail each year. But don’t worry; trails are suited for all skill levels. Once you reach the top, you’ll see panoramic views of five nearby states, making memories you won’t forget. Then, return to your drive-in or backcountry campsite or book a cozy room at the nearby Bascom Lodge.

Features: Mount Greylocks’ summit is a key part of the famous Appalachian Trail.
Facilities: Food storage locker, picnic shelter, visitor’s center, clean drinking water, solar composting toilets, Bascom lodge (with accommodations and meals available).
Things to Know: Weather can be unpredictable, so the park is only open seasonally.

Harold Parker State Forest

Located just 15 miles north of Boston, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy this natural getaway. You might not expect to find a 3,000+ acre forest so close by, but its proximity makes it a popular destination for city dwellers craving some hiking, biking, fishing, or swimming in nature. Set up camp at one of 89 campsites among small and serene ponds. Don’t be surprised if you spot wildlife during your stay, as turkeys, owls, and deer are commonly reported.

Features: On-site, you can find remnants of the old stone wall from what used to be a 19th-century farming community. You can also spot wildlife and enjoy the ponds and forest landscape.
Facilities: Bathhouses, picnic pavilion, playground, trailer/RV dumping, and boat rentals.
Things to Know: Open seasonally during the summer and early fall. Alcohol is not allowed.

Wompatuck State Park

Wompatuck State Park is home to the Aaron River Reservoir and is close to Boston, so it’s an easy spot for a weekend camping trip. It boasts an extensive network of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, while the reservoir is ideal for kayaking or fishing. With 250 campsites available, it’s not ideal for solo camping and is better for those who prefer a lively camp experience.

It’s also popular for its cross-country skiing in the winter, making it a year-round destination for outdoor adventure lovers. If you spot bunkers as you wander around, have no fear—these are leftovers from when the park was previously a military ammunition depot.

Features: The park was once a military ammunition depot, so remnants of bunkers remain. Great for hiking, biking, horse riding, or cross-country skiing.
Facilities: Showers, restrooms, a boat launch, paved bike paths, a visitor center, and an RV or van dumping station are available.
Things to Know: Open year-round, and some trails are groomed for cross-country skiing during the winter.

Salisbury Beach State Reservation

Calling all beach lovers—Salisbury Beach State Reservation is one of the longest beaches in the state, with more than three miles of sandy beach shoreline and direct beach access. It’s a prime location for swimming, boating, or fishing, but even land lovers will enjoy it. Early risers can catch stunning sunrises, and nearby boardwalk attractions are fun for the whole family. Aviary enthusiasts will also appreciate the variety of waterfowl and shorebirds who call this area home.

Features: Situated along the Merrimack River’s mouth with direct beach access and miles of shoreline to explore.
Facilities: Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, boat launch, dump station, scenic viewing area, and a playground for children.
Things to Know: Open seasonally, May through October. RV-friendly campground with electric hookups available.

Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

Think outside the mainland—this unique camping destination is only accessible via ferry, but once you arrive, you’ll quickly realize you’ve stepped foot into a rustic camping experience without being too far from the Boston Harbor. The Recreation Area comprises 34 islands and peninsulas, including historic sites like Fort Warren on Georges Island. From hiking and biking to swimming, fishing, and boating, there’s plenty to do on these small islands. And you’ll be among good company, as various wildlife call this area home, like egrets, osprey, and harbor seals.

Features: Fort Warren on Georges Island, a bastion fort that defended the harbor from 1861 through the end of WW2. Spectacle Island offers the best view of the Boston skyline.
Facilities: Composting toilets and picnic tables. Tent-only group and individual campsites and furnished yurts with electricity are available.
Things to Know: Primitive camping is only available on most islands, with no electricity or running water. Reservations are required and should be made well in advance.

Mohawk Trail State Forest

In the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts lies Mohawk Trail State Forest, renowned for its scenic vistas, green forests, and peaceful campsites that dot the Cold River shoreline. It’s one of the most scenic woodland areas in the state. If you enjoy hiking, you must check out the 100+ miles of trails, including a portion of the famous Appalachian Trail and a section of the original ancient Native American path, the Mahican-Mohawk Trail. Hunters flock to this area to pursue deer, turkey, and small game. The forest covers 6,000 acres of mountain ridges, woods, and gorges, home to various plants and animals.

Features: Home to some of the tallest trees in Massachusetts, including ancient white pines.
Facilities: Primitive camping only, tents or RV sites available. Cabins are also available. Restrooms, picnic areas, dishwashing station, dump station, drinking water, food storage locker.
Things to Know: The park is open year-round, and heated cabins are available for winter stays. Reservations are recommended, especially for cabins.

Scusset Beach State Reservation

Located along the Cape Cod Canal is Scusset Beach State Reservation. For beach campers, you’ll love the easy access to the sandy shores of the Atlantic and the scenic views of Martha’s Vineyard and Elizabeth Islands. It’s the perfect spot to sunbathe, fish, or simply enjoy the ocean breeze. Here, you’ll encounter a variety of habitats, from dunes and coastal forests to the salt marshes that oysters, ospreys, eel, and crabs call home.

Features: Situated along one of the world’s widest sea-level canals. Scenic island views and a variety of habitats to explore.
Facilities: Restrooms, showers, camp store, dump station, water hookups, and electric hookups for RVs or van camping.
Things to Know: Open year-round with limited winter camping.

Tully Lake Campground

For solo camping or those who prefer a scenic, quiet experience, let Tully Lake Campground give you the peace you crave. The waterfront campsites and easy access to Tully Trail couldn’t be more convenient, and the various camping options accommodate every type of camper. There are 75 tent sites, RV spots, and even yurts to choose from.

Features: Enjoy a 22-mile loop trail with forest and waterfall views and the Tully Lake State Forest.
Facilities: A bathhouse is available. Firewood, ice, and fire starters are for sale. You can rent canoes, kayaks, fishing poles, GPS, and disc golf equipment.
Things to Know: Open from May to October, and reservations are highly recommended for waterfront sites. No RV hookups are available.

What To Pack for a Massachusetts Camping Trip

Hydration Essentials: Carry enough water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
Sun Safety Gear: Protect yourself from the sun with sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, and UV-protective clothing.
Portable Power Options: Pack the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus from the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Series, or add the capability of generating your own energy with the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Solar Generator (PV45W). For minimal power needs, consider bringing the EcoFlow RAPID Power Bank.
Air Conditioner: Summers in Massachusetts can get hot and humid, so pack the EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable Air Conditioner to stay cool.
Weather-Ready Layers: Bring versatile clothes appropriate for fluctuating temperatures.
Trail-Ready Shoes: Use durable hiking boots or trail shoes to handle uneven terrain.
Emergency First Aid: Include emergency supplies such as pain relievers, prescriptions, bandages, and antiseptic.
Shelter: Choose a well-ventilated tent with a fly to maximize airflow and stay dry.
Kitchen Supplies: A compact stove, fuel, utensils, pots/pans, cleaning supplies
Night Lighting: Pack flashlights, battery-powered torches, lanterns, and plenty of extra batteries.
Comfort Accessories: To elevate the experience, pack foldable chairs, a hammock, a sleeping pad, and pillows/blankets.
Fire Safety: Firestarters, matches, firewood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wild Camping Legal in Massachusetts?

Wild camping is generally illegal in Massachusetts or on private or public land. You will need to find a designated campground unless under special circumstances, as allowed by certain exceptions in state forests or reservations. Check local regulations and get any required permits.

How Much Does It Cost to Camp in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts camping costs vary by location and amenities. State parks can cost between $17 and $35 each night, with higher rates for non-residents. Private campgrounds and unique sites, like furnished cabins and extra vehicle space, can cost more.

Final Thoughts

Massachusetts’ natural landscape combines coastal shorelines, lush forests, gentle hills, and mountains. There’s something to satisfy every camping preference, from the sandy beaches of Cape Cod at Scusset Beach State Reservation to elevated views of the region from Mount Greylock State Reservation. Whether you prefer a primitive experience or camping in comfort, the EcoFlow River 3 Series enhances any outdoor adventure with reliable access to power.