97% (621) • 12 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Ayer
Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat
1. Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat
100%
(538)
38mi from Ayer · 5 sites · Lodging
Best HipCamp Massachusetts 2023
Best HipCamp USA Finalist 2023
Best HipCamp Massachusetts Finalist 2022
THERE IS WIFI, PRIVATE HOT SHOWER and FLUSH TOILET.
EXCEPT FOR THE RECENTLY ADDED TULLY 'THOREAU' ISLAND.
Salamander Hollow is a private, evolving honeybee and human being
sanctuary on 17 acres of land abutting Massachusetts State Forest. We
currently have a one-room, wood stove warmed, cozy sleeping loft for one or two - with two benches below on either side of room - for two sleeping bags; plus, a separate 22 foot Sioux tipi with two cots. There are two chairs in the tipi, which if removed at night, make floor room for four other sleeping bags.
'Forest Bathing' for miles!
If you're a larger group booking Salamander Hollow main camp with its Sleeping Library, Tipi & Slovenian Beehive House, you might consider renting this additional Tiny Cabin want to entertain all in glamping style, utilizing its amenities; as well, providing another bathroom/shower and guest bedroom for those who prefer being indoors while in the great outdoors.
Note that Kula Bata Tiny Cabin abuts the wheelchair accessible larger bathroom/shower which is available to those at the Salamander Hollow main camp, yet you are secluded with your own private entry points and private bathroom.
A ten minute drive takes you to the parking area to hike up Tully Mountain. There is a grill, wood fired pizza oven, two fire pits and a hygienic Incinolet electric toilet on the property for night convenience, with small camp sinks for washing & teeth brushing.
Take a short hike off the property to organic Chase Hill Farm for milk, eggs, seasonal veggies, grass fed meat and other goodies. Say hello to their cows, chickens, pigs, goats, pups and kids. Nestled across the road from Salamander Hollow is Timber Haven Farm, where you can schedule your pickup of bacon and eggs, while loading up on delicious Owl Energy Bars for your adventurous excursions. For those interested in the glamping side of camping, you will enjoy a remote rustic experience with a few creature comforts to keep you well read, clean and fed. Please bring your own bedding - pillows, sleeping bags, comforter, teddy bears.There is a wall mounted blue tooth car radio/CD player in Sleeping Library, so bring your pre-digital favorites. Classical CDs to listen to. Lots of eclectic books to peruse.Walkie talkies, a set of 4, are available upon request. Chess & poker sets, too.
Electric 2-burner stovetop and griddle upon request.
Bring fire-starters/newspaper for tinder. We suggest if you are staying more than a night or two in winter, you bring supplemental wood or we can direct you to a nearby stand. Next season, our own cut and split wood will be seasoned and available on site. We ask that you carry out trash and recyclables.
An established Western facing four point sacred Medicine Wheel site being established on Askari Ridge - our name for the slope starting with the two fire pits - 'Askari' being Swahili for night guard.
Here is where we envision a great touch-point area for those leading groups to be for a base-camp by day or night, where eventually a multi-use tenting platform/performance stage will be constructed for outdoor entertainment, creating an authentic 'stadium style' seating on the hill.
You will see on your way up to Salamander Hollow main clearing - the Kula Bata Tiny Kabin on the left of the dirt road- now available to rent with its small guest room for two, infrared sauna, hot shower, kitchenette, dishwasher and laundry.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$75
/ night
Blue Heron Camp
2. Blue Heron Camp
95%
(83)
41mi from Ayer · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
I have been on this land for 45 years and have improved it but let nature reign.
Animals that have passed through, and some have stayed:
Birds, turkeys, owls, coyotes, bear , moose, deer, bobcat, squirrels, chip monks, voles and mice, raccoon, possum, fox, and fisher. Eggs and veggies for sale in season.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$24
/ night
Wild Card Retreat
3. Wild Card Retreat
97%
(99)
48mi from Ayer · 5 sites · Tents
This cabin was built in 1980 by the Shaw family who raised a family off grid with only a generator until 2012. It is now owned by the Healey/Card family!Vehicles with a bit of clearance can drive in! There is parking half mile away if you need to walk in. Pitch a tent at a campsite along the trails within our 39 acre off grid property! We live the better part of a mile away from the closest utility poles on a trail. Can’t be found on google maps! We are truly off grid in the wilderness! All variety of NH wildlife can be spotted at any time! Tons of trails to hike and explore as we are on a huge trail system!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$40
/ night
Bear Brook State Park
4. Bear Brook State Park
100%
(2)
92 sites · Suncook, New Hampshire
Bear Brook has everything you’d expect from New Hampshire’s largest developed state park: 40 miles of hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and equestrian trails; hidden bogs, marshes, and ponds; a day-use area, group areas, and campsites; boat rentals—even two archery ranges. Then again, you might opt to simply kick back and soak up some sun on the beach. Of course, if you’d rather spend your time indoors than out, make your way to the Museum Complex. It’s home to the New Hampshire Antique Snowmobile Museum, Old Allenstown Meeting House, and the Richard Diehl Civilian Conservation Corps Museum. Little more than an hour’s drive from both Boston and Portland, this is southeast New Hampshire’s crossroads for adventure.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Streamside Camping in Leverett!
5. Streamside Camping in Leverett!
91%
(32)
47mi from Ayer · 3 sites · Tents
Our 2 acre property and home is located in the center of the small town of Leverett. We have a private camping spot located down by the stream. We are near a paved road with moderate traffic.
The property abuts many acres of woods and there are a number of great walking trails nearby. A half-mile walk behind the house takes you through the forest to an outlook on Leverett Pond.
The Peace Pagoda is just a few miles up the road. Other nearby destinations include Cushman Market and Cafe, the Montague Bookmill, and Mt. Toby waterfall, caves, and lookout tower.
Leverett Pond has a public boat launch nearby. We have canoes, paddles, and lifejackets available for rent--inquire for details!
The area has excellent bike riding as well. We enjoy all these activities and are happy to share further destinations, routes, and suggestions!
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$55
/ night
Country Camping
6. Country Camping
95%
(21)
35mi from Ayer · 1 site · RV
THIS CAN BE RENTED AS A CAMPSITE ONLY. Our 3-acre property is surrounded by beautiful countryside with lots country charm. At one point in the early 1900's it was home to itinerant farmers who farmed the nearby fields. Our property was the dumping grounds for the stones/rocks that were pulled from the fields. You will notice lots of them throughout the property!
Our site is a well manicured area near our house on a 3-acre parcel. There is lots of sun and shade depending on when and where you happen to be on the site. There is plenty of space to pull out your favorite lawn game and a great firepit to keep warm at night. We are about 10 minutes from Clough State Park where there is plenty to do including swimming, paddling, biking, hiking, ATVing, etc. Our site has 50amp service and filtered well water (2 spigots). Depending on how long your RV is, you may not be able to put our your awning all the way.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$81
/ night
Shaded Gardens
7. Shaded Gardens
100%
(7)
14mi from Ayer · 1 site · Tent
Learn more about this land:
Camping in the tree lined back yard of 3rd generation horticulturalist Brenna Ewing in picturesque South Berlin: This property is fully fenced, with gated access from Pleasant Street. Features beautiful gardens of Lilac Daylily, Phlox, Herbs; Wildflowers and a Disc Golf Station. Nearby hiking, biking and horseback riding as well as local farm stores, dining and shops, close to interstates make this an ideal place to start exploring and enjoying Central Massachusetts. Rustic amenities include toilet, trash can, garden hose water supply; fire pit for cooking. BYO firewood and cooking supplies, BYO kiddie pool and lawn chairs.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$110
/ night
Stable View Farm
8. Stable View Farm
100%
(2)
53mi from Ayer · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Great safe space for you and your horse. Ideally located right off main route. Electric and water hookups available. RV, LQ horse trailers or tent camping welcome. 12x12 stalls with paddocks with 3 rail and electric fence. Daily or weekly rates depending on your needs. Nearby restaurants and services. Short distance to the NH Rail Trail, Black Water Flood District, Bear Brook State Park and Old Hill Village.
May 1 - Oct.30 only.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from
$50
/ night
97% (621) • 12 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Ayer
Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat
1. Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat
100%
(538)
38mi from Ayer · 5 sites · Lodging
Best HipCamp Massachusetts 2023
Best HipCamp USA Finalist 2023
Best HipCamp Massachusetts Finalist 2022
THERE IS WIFI, PRIVATE HOT SHOWER and FLUSH TOILET.
EXCEPT FOR THE RECENTLY ADDED TULLY 'THOREAU' ISLAND.
Salamander Hollow is a private, evolving honeybee and human being
sanctuary on 17 acres of land abutting Massachusetts State Forest. We
currently have a one-room, wood stove warmed, cozy sleeping loft for one or two - with two benches below on either side of room - for two sleeping bags; plus, a separate 22 foot Sioux tipi with two cots. There are two chairs in the tipi, which if removed at night, make floor room for four other sleeping bags.
'Forest Bathing' for miles!
If you're a larger group booking Salamander Hollow main camp with its Sleeping Library, Tipi & Slovenian Beehive House, you might consider renting this additional Tiny Cabin want to entertain all in glamping style, utilizing its amenities; as well, providing another bathroom/shower and guest bedroom for those who prefer being indoors while in the great outdoors.
Note that Kula Bata Tiny Cabin abuts the wheelchair accessible larger bathroom/shower which is available to those at the Salamander Hollow main camp, yet you are secluded with your own private entry points and private bathroom.
A ten minute drive takes you to the parking area to hike up Tully Mountain. There is a grill, wood fired pizza oven, two fire pits and a hygienic Incinolet electric toilet on the property for night convenience, with small camp sinks for washing & teeth brushing.
Take a short hike off the property to organic Chase Hill Farm for milk, eggs, seasonal veggies, grass fed meat and other goodies. Say hello to their cows, chickens, pigs, goats, pups and kids. Nestled across the road from Salamander Hollow is Timber Haven Farm, where you can schedule your pickup of bacon and eggs, while loading up on delicious Owl Energy Bars for your adventurous excursions. For those interested in the glamping side of camping, you will enjoy a remote rustic experience with a few creature comforts to keep you well read, clean and fed. Please bring your own bedding - pillows, sleeping bags, comforter, teddy bears.There is a wall mounted blue tooth car radio/CD player in Sleeping Library, so bring your pre-digital favorites. Classical CDs to listen to. Lots of eclectic books to peruse.Walkie talkies, a set of 4, are available upon request. Chess & poker sets, too.
Electric 2-burner stovetop and griddle upon request.
Bring fire-starters/newspaper for tinder. We suggest if you are staying more than a night or two in winter, you bring supplemental wood or we can direct you to a nearby stand. Next season, our own cut and split wood will be seasoned and available on site. We ask that you carry out trash and recyclables.
An established Western facing four point sacred Medicine Wheel site being established on Askari Ridge - our name for the slope starting with the two fire pits - 'Askari' being Swahili for night guard.
Here is where we envision a great touch-point area for those leading groups to be for a base-camp by day or night, where eventually a multi-use tenting platform/performance stage will be constructed for outdoor entertainment, creating an authentic 'stadium style' seating on the hill.
You will see on your way up to Salamander Hollow main clearing - the Kula Bata Tiny Kabin on the left of the dirt road- now available to rent with its small guest room for two, infrared sauna, hot shower, kitchenette, dishwasher and laundry.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$75
/ night
Blue Heron Camp
2. Blue Heron Camp
95%
(83)
41mi from Ayer · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
I have been on this land for 45 years and have improved it but let nature reign.
Animals that have passed through, and some have stayed:
Birds, turkeys, owls, coyotes, bear , moose, deer, bobcat, squirrels, chip monks, voles and mice, raccoon, possum, fox, and fisher. Eggs and veggies for sale in season.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$24
/ night
Wild Card Retreat
3. Wild Card Retreat
97%
(99)
48mi from Ayer · 5 sites · Tents
This cabin was built in 1980 by the Shaw family who raised a family off grid with only a generator until 2012. It is now owned by the Healey/Card family!Vehicles with a bit of clearance can drive in! There is parking half mile away if you need to walk in. Pitch a tent at a campsite along the trails within our 39 acre off grid property! We live the better part of a mile away from the closest utility poles on a trail. Can’t be found on google maps! We are truly off grid in the wilderness! All variety of NH wildlife can be spotted at any time! Tons of trails to hike and explore as we are on a huge trail system!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$40
/ night
Bear Brook State Park
4. Bear Brook State Park
100%
(2)
92 sites · Suncook, New Hampshire
Bear Brook has everything you’d expect from New Hampshire’s largest developed state park: 40 miles of hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and equestrian trails; hidden bogs, marshes, and ponds; a day-use area, group areas, and campsites; boat rentals—even two archery ranges. Then again, you might opt to simply kick back and soak up some sun on the beach. Of course, if you’d rather spend your time indoors than out, make your way to the Museum Complex. It’s home to the New Hampshire Antique Snowmobile Museum, Old Allenstown Meeting House, and the Richard Diehl Civilian Conservation Corps Museum. Little more than an hour’s drive from both Boston and Portland, this is southeast New Hampshire’s crossroads for adventure.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Streamside Camping in Leverett!
5. Streamside Camping in Leverett!
91%
(32)
47mi from Ayer · 3 sites · Tents
Our 2 acre property and home is located in the center of the small town of Leverett. We have a private camping spot located down by the stream. We are near a paved road with moderate traffic.
The property abuts many acres of woods and there are a number of great walking trails nearby. A half-mile walk behind the house takes you through the forest to an outlook on Leverett Pond.
The Peace Pagoda is just a few miles up the road. Other nearby destinations include Cushman Market and Cafe, the Montague Bookmill, and Mt. Toby waterfall, caves, and lookout tower.
Leverett Pond has a public boat launch nearby. We have canoes, paddles, and lifejackets available for rent--inquire for details!
The area has excellent bike riding as well. We enjoy all these activities and are happy to share further destinations, routes, and suggestions!
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$55
/ night
Country Camping
6. Country Camping
95%
(21)
35mi from Ayer · 1 site · RV
THIS CAN BE RENTED AS A CAMPSITE ONLY. Our 3-acre property is surrounded by beautiful countryside with lots country charm. At one point in the early 1900's it was home to itinerant farmers who farmed the nearby fields. Our property was the dumping grounds for the stones/rocks that were pulled from the fields. You will notice lots of them throughout the property!
Our site is a well manicured area near our house on a 3-acre parcel. There is lots of sun and shade depending on when and where you happen to be on the site. There is plenty of space to pull out your favorite lawn game and a great firepit to keep warm at night. We are about 10 minutes from Clough State Park where there is plenty to do including swimming, paddling, biking, hiking, ATVing, etc. Our site has 50amp service and filtered well water (2 spigots). Depending on how long your RV is, you may not be able to put our your awning all the way.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$81
/ night
Shaded Gardens
7. Shaded Gardens
100%
(7)
14mi from Ayer · 1 site · Tent
Learn more about this land:
Camping in the tree lined back yard of 3rd generation horticulturalist Brenna Ewing in picturesque South Berlin: This property is fully fenced, with gated access from Pleasant Street. Features beautiful gardens of Lilac Daylily, Phlox, Herbs; Wildflowers and a Disc Golf Station. Nearby hiking, biking and horseback riding as well as local farm stores, dining and shops, close to interstates make this an ideal place to start exploring and enjoying Central Massachusetts. Rustic amenities include toilet, trash can, garden hose water supply; fire pit for cooking. BYO firewood and cooking supplies, BYO kiddie pool and lawn chairs.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$110
/ night
Stable View Farm
8. Stable View Farm
100%
(2)
53mi from Ayer · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Great safe space for you and your horse. Ideally located right off main route. Electric and water hookups available. RV, LQ horse trailers or tent camping welcome. 12x12 stalls with paddocks with 3 rail and electric fence. Daily or weekly rates depending on your needs. Nearby restaurants and services. Short distance to the NH Rail Trail, Black Water Flood District, Bear Brook State Park and Old Hill Village.
May 1 - Oct.30 only.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from
$50
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
S
Sharon
November 2025
Group trip
We enjoyed a stay in the tipi and made brick oven pizza. It’s magical we will definitely be back and I recommend this place to anyone that loves nature and wants a different experience. Our dogs had the time of their lives.
See moreT
Tom
November 2025
Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat
The cabin/library was cozy, the tipi was super cool and bigger than I expected it to be. Bring a sleeping pad, the ones in the library were a little thin. Beautiful and very private site.
See more
s
stephen
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat
Mary, you could not be more welcoming and responsive to any needs (really appreciate you both coming out to show us how to close the wood stove door). Everything exceeded expectations and I can’t wait to make another (hopefully longer visit)!
See more
m
m
October 2025
3 nights at Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat
Mary is an excellent hostess!! So very responsive, welcoming, and accommodating for all of our little needs. Everything was clean & fresh for our arrival. Directions are so very thorough, and Mary even gave us Texas gals a ton of awesome recommendations for some local digs. We are so very grateful for that, and our time there. Will be returning anytime I head back up to New England 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
See moreF
Felicia
October 2025
1 night at Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat
We absolutely loved our stay! Mary was very informative and responded quickly when needed. Highly recommend and would definitely come back! Perfect for a weekend getaway.
See more
Rosemary
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
The tent camping area was really cool. Could hear a wide array of wildlife at night. A fire pit was set up with stump seats that we loved winding down the night at. Stayed here for quality access to Farley Ledges and wasn’t disappointed.
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A
Amanda
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat
I loved the library and pizza oven! This was hands down the best trip I've had with this app yet. The bathroom was clean and had a space heater which was an amazing touch. The music that was set up on arrival added so much to the experience. And the host was so accommodating! I will absolutely be coming back for this site!
See more
Elise
September 2025
Tim
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat
I'm sure anyone who visits this location is beyond impressed. It really has captured a great energy. My only regret is I hadn't gone sooner. Great trails to hike. An amazing farm store within walking distance. The spirit circle. We really loved this, and it was fun adding to it. 100% go. It's amazing.
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A
Ali
August 2025
With pets
Absolutely beautiful spot we hope to come back to! There is so much to explore (we couldn’t get to it all!) but loved getting to cook up calzones in the pizza oven, sit out by the fire pit and see the Milky Way and stars, and thumb through some of the vast collection of books in the library. The bumbling of the beehives and bubbling of the pond were wonderfully restorative background music for our overnight getaway. The bathroom is a bit of a walk from the main site at night, so our headlamps were a necessity to get around. The little information cards and trail maps were immensely helpful and we hope to explore them next time! This was a super private and much needed escape from the city life, so thank you for all of the intention clearly put into making it into a respite and retreat!
See moreJ
Jake
August 2025
With pets
Really cool spot! Very nice host. Had a great time using the pizza oven and amazing star gazing.
See moreJ
Janet
August 2025
Tent
Group trip
It rained and they let us hang out under a covered porch for a yurt site they had. Thankfully the yurt wasn't rented. We were able to hang out, cook our meal and wash our dishes all while staying dry. Our tent was down by the stream which was a nice site.
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Angela
August 2025
30 ft Class A
The site is fully shaded with a level gravel pad backed up to a wooded area. We had no problem backing into the pad and the hookups were in good working order. The location is very nice and we even had a flock of wild turkeys visit. Bryan was a very good host and responsive to communications. I would recommend this HipCamp.
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Mariya
August 2025
With pets
The entire experience with Mary’s campsite - and in communicating with Mary - was fantastic. We absolutely appreciated the love and care that obviously went into designing the campsite, and the concern that goes into its management and upkeep. This was our first time here but I hope it won’t be our last.
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R
Robert
August 2025
1 night at Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat
The property is beautiful and fascinating! Welcoming music was playing on Alexa, Mary gave us a nice note, and lots of ideas for things to do. I could not ask for a more thoughtful for attentive host. We loved the Tipi for sitting and talking. The pizza over was fun and delicious! The cabin was adorable and it was a perfect place to unwind.
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K
Kathryn Marie
August 2025
Group trip
Mary’s land/Salamander Hollow is a magical little gem nestled in the woods. I stayed there one night in the teepee with my daughter and friends. It is a restful, lovely location. Mary was very helpful in prepping us for our arrival. Such a peaceful spot. I hope to return again.
See moreA
Abigail
July 2025
With kids
This visit was beyond what we could have expected, even based on the wonderful views. Mary was so helpful sharing plenty of info ahead of time to make the most of our stay. We had a warm welcome with helpful info left about the camp, the local trails and offerings, as well as lovely jar of honey, some koi food for the kids to use for the koi pond, etc.
This place is incredibly special. I visited with my 12 and 9 yo and our dog, and we’ll be back with the rest of the family and friends in the future for sure. Mary had great local recs, and we really enjoyed an easy hike to Chase Hill farm for delicious provisions, a swim at Laurel Lake in Erving and a lovely meal and pit stop at red Apple Farm before making the trip back to Boston.
Making wood-fired pizza was so much fun (and delicious!) and the star gazing was beyond. We saw many shooting stars, and my only regret is we weren’t able to stay longer.
See moreK
Keyla
July 2025
With pets
We had a wonderful experience staying at Mary’s place. Not only did she provide incredibly detailed information, but she also shared great local recommendations for lakes, farms, and more. Everything was just as expected and even better. Mary went above and beyond to make us feel welcome throughout our stay, and her communication was outstanding. Without a doubt, my family will be returning!
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Gerald
June 2025
33 ft travel trailer
Great location, but not too far from the city. Nice, we'll kept property. We have a 34' rig and tow with an 18+' Suburban and we had space to back in, even with the boat out. Bryan is welcoming and quick to respond to any needs/questions we had. Highly recommend and we will be back!
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a
amber
June 2025
With kids
Me and my family loved it. Upon arriving my girls were left 2 full baskets of fish food and lollipops which was their favorite thing. We even got to see inside the beehive to see some new bees added. Even went above and beyond to help my boyfriend find his wallet after we left. Absolutely loved it. Best experience!!
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