Waterside camping in Massachusetts with campfires
The Bay State is bigger than Boston, with peaceful beaches, historic parks, and state forests.
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Popular camping styles for Massachusetts
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Explore the area’s public lands.
Waterside camping in Massachusetts with campfires guide
Overview
New England’s quintessential state, Massachusetts is chock-full of outdoor opportunities. Whether you go camping close to Boston or explore RV campgrounds in the state's west, you can't go wrong at a Massachusetts campground. Try an RV resort to experience the best of Cape Cod, or if you prefer freshwater to saltwater, rent a tent campsite at a state park to unwind. History buffs will want to spend some time south of Boston to hike around Plymouth and other historic towns.
Where to go
Cape Cod
Beaches along Cape Cod come in all sizes and styles, from the romantic to the family-friendly. Family camping thrives in the area. Drive your RV to Scusset Beach State Reservation on the southwest edge of Cape Cod Bay. If glamping is more your speed, head to Falmouth, Martha's Vineyard, or Nantucket for a getaway along the Atlantic Ocean.
Plymouth
Stop in Wompatuck State Park en route to the Pilgrim Memorial State Park. The latter is a must-stop for United States history enthusiasts, while campsites in Myles Standish State Forest offer everything. Tent and RV campgrounds come with access to hiking trails, as well as opportunities to ride horses, bike, and sail. In the snowy months, you can even snowmobile or cross-country ski.
Salisbury Beach State Reservation
North of Boston, Salisbury Beach State Reservation sits between the Atlantic Ocean and the Merrimack River. RV parks come with electric and water hookups, while the gorgeous purple sand beaches of Plum Island are just a stone’s throw away.
Inland Massachusetts
The coast gets all the credit, but Massachusetts is more than its beaches. Inland, you’ll find the Quabbin Reservoir, which boasts beautiful views and trails. Head further west, and you’ll encounter Peru State Forest or Granville State Forest, where surrounding campsites are a hiker’s dream.
When to go
When it comes to New England camping, it’s a safe bet to seek out the summer weather. However, popular places like Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard are often crowded in the summertime. So if you prefer seclusion to the sun, book your rental in the shoulder-seasons. You may not be able to swim, but there’s never a bad time of the year to gaze at the ocean.
