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The best camping in Massachusetts

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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.

97% (3.3K) 3,842 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Massachusetts

Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

1. Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

99%
(582)
Warwick, MA · 5 sites
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.
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Woodland’s Edge Campsite & Hot Tubs

2. Woodland’s Edge Campsite & Hot Tubs

91%
(47)
Belchertown, MA · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
Your private campsite is on the edge of a mixed-wood forest. Deer roam free and you will surely hear the call of coyotes and owls at night. Centrally located within 10 minutes of downtown Amherst, 15 minutes to downtown Northampton, this campsite is the perfect base camp to access all that this region has to offer. Flea markets and farmers markets on the weekends, malls, museums and numerous restaurants in the area should you decide to venture out for a bite to eat. Holland Glen, a popular hiking spot with waterfalls and swimming holes is a quick 3-minute drive to the trail head. It is an easy 1-mile ride to the start of the Norwotuck Rail Trail a paved bike path through wetlands and rolling farmland. Or simply stay put, unplug, and relax in the hammock or enjoy our one of a kind wood-fired hot tubs! Our guests are welcome to wander around our little homestead have your coffee in the pollinator patch and watch the hummingbirds, butterflies and bees do their thing. Feed the chickens, then nibble your way through our berry patches, fruit trees and gardens and experience what it is like to live simply in New England. Cook a meal over the fire, relax in the hammock and listen to the sounds of nature!
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Winimusett Brook Farm Retreat

3. Winimusett Brook Farm Retreat

100%
(60)
New Braintree, MA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Enjoy a tranquil weekend at Winimusett Farm, a 28 acre retreat on a flower farm with 4 ponds, many streams and rolling fields. Stay in an off grid cozy cabin in the woods that can accommodate 2 people. Additional tent space available. The cabin includes a queen mattress, wood stove, outdoor fire pit, deck and a private outhouse. Hike up to the cabin, it’s a 5 minute walk from where you park. We provide a gorilla cart for use in hauling your supplies up to the cabin. During dry or frozen conditions guests with four wheel drive may be permitted to drive up to park closer to the cabin. In addition to our cozy cabin we also offer a stay in the bunk house attached to the barn. This space offers 3 rooms, a wood stove, microwave, 2 queen beds and 2 twin bed, a spacious living room and dining area. The bunk house is on the lower part of the pond, making it more accessible as parking is right at the door. There are private camp sites for guests who prefer to pitch a tent or park their van or RV. There's a portable toilet on site seasonally for guests staying on the lower half of the farm. We can accommodated small respectful groups of campers looking for a quiet stay in nature. It's a great spot for local Scout Troops to pitch their tents and explore nature. Message for more information. To help you prepare for a visit to the farm please see the document linked below. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1G1PtVhwHHmG3WJqRrbSnhKTLpiwHaDbPwez164OAGF4/edit?usp=drivesdk
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Boston Harbor Islands

4. Boston Harbor Islands

100%
(6)
National park in Massachusetts · 19 sites
Wilderness with a city view!... Tidepools, lighthouses and history meet beach and boating fun.
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Wells State Park

5. Wells State Park

100%
(5)
State park in Massachusetts · 57 sites
Discover Wells State Park's scenic trails and serene camping spots.
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Rustic Cabins With A Mission

6. Rustic Cabins With A Mission

Brewster, MA · 1 site
Stay includes a rustic cabin in the woods! This camp, called Dream Day on Cape Cod, welcomes families who have a seriously ill child to enjoy respite together during the summer. Cabins vary slightly, but each includes two double bunk beds (four twin beds total) and one full-size bed, sleeping up to six guests. Each cabin is equipped with a mini refrigerator, microwave, and a full bathroom. The property also offers access to a wide-open field and a playground. Fire pit use may be requested during your stay (availability depends on fire danger levels). Please note: To access Nickerson State Park, a daily fee must be paid at the front gate until October 13.
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Wyomanock Farm

7. Wyomanock Farm

97%
(866)
Stephentown, NY · 346 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
For July 4th weekend, and Labor Day weekend drive-up sites are a 2 night minimum. In the off season starting after Thanksgiving through April, there is no water or toilet or shower facilities available. The solar shower and water lines may be shut off any time in October if freezing conditions prevail. Please check with us. Our 75 acres is a wonderful, diverse mix of habitat, harmoniously integrated with our small farm. This land was the homestead of the very first non native settler of the area, John Wiley, in 1787. Before that, it was the land of the Mahican native Americans. They named it "valley of the butternut trees", or Wyomanock. The Wyomanock Creek is the backbone of this little valley. Beaver have dammed the creek at several points to create ponds and other wetland features that support a diversity of wildlife including otter, moose and a myriad of birds, from osprey to herons. This sanctuary is host to many uncommon native plants and plant communities. We would love to share it with you! Your host, Thom, invites you to property to explore 75 acres of meadows, woods and water. Choose one of several sites either in the woods or open areas. You are also free to use our outdoor solar shower or take a dip in the cold pond or artesian spring fed pool. Our location is convenient to the Berkshire Mountains, state parks, hiking and other attractions, including Ramble Wild tree to tree adventures and Jiminy Peak. There are a few miles of rail trail access just down the road.
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Poor-Sleeper Camp

8. Poor-Sleeper Camp

91%
(27)
Orange, MA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
We purchased land it is a dream come true ! We would love to share our dream land with others to enjoy the serenity and peacefulness of the land and what it has to offer others! Interested in staying Memorial Day can rent tents to you eight dollars a night come enjoy hiking fishing kayaking close to Tully pond and enjoy a stay near our river freshly stalked with trout.Can stay one night or as many as you would like to book Learn more about this land: 39 acres of open space, running river, stocked with trout, swimming in river, hiking, tents for rent relaxing hammock. 17 acres on other side of river to hike camp can kayak on river There is wetlands in areas there are meadows There is a mountain access across from property for hiking called Tully mountain There is a pond in walking distance can swim fish and boating. Directly across from pond across the street general store called Nana’s and a restaurant with Great food Bar called the Boiler!! It is a Peaceful land so much serenity to enjoy!! It is our dream to have such beautiful land !! We want others to enjoy it also!!
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Turtle Bend Farm

9. Turtle Bend Farm

94%
(181)
Russell, MA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
30 acres of cozy, south-facing slope nestled in the Berkshire foothills of Western MA. Right along the Westfield River, glorious views of rolling hills and wide open sky. This mid-century horse farm is being transitioned into a perennial plant nursery with a focus on delicious fruits, pollinator flowers and medicinal herbs. Some seasons, we raise Thanksgiving turkeys as well, but are taking a few years off from cows and sheep as we work on the pasture.
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Nickerson State Park

10. Nickerson State Park

100%
(22)
State park in Massachusetts · 387 sites
With beaches, lakes, and woodlands, this is Cape Cod’s most popular camping spot.
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Mount Greylock State Reservation

11. Mount Greylock State Reservation

100%
(6)
State park in Massachusetts · 27 sites
Grand views and epic hikes await at Massachusetts’ highest peak.
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October Mountain State Forest

12. October Mountain State Forest

100%
(5)
State forest in Massachusetts · 44 sites
Discover the natural splendor of October Mountain State Forest.
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Savoy Mountain State Forest

13. Savoy Mountain State Forest

100%
(7)
State forest in Massachusetts · 46 sites
Discover the natural allure of Savoy Mountain State Forest.
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Cozy Wooded Nook

14. Cozy Wooded Nook

95%
(290)
Carver, MA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
A cozy couple acres near Cranberry Bogs. We have three campsites available to choose from. 1 RV site and 2 Tiny Camper/Tent sites. Short wooded trails for dog walks or adventurous kids. Build a fire for enjoyment, or swivel grill top over to cook. Campfires permitted. Wood for sale on-site is $5 per bundle, cash or Venmo. The randomly dispersed hammocks are perfect for relaxing, watching sunsets through the tree line or reading a book with the morning birds. Pet friendly. Please be a responsible pet owner. No dump stations or bathrooms on site. [Luggable Loo Bucket Toilet available] Well water fill up available. Absolutely no use of liquid fire accelerants, please. We will provide endless fire starter logs and cardboard to get you going. 15 AMP ELECTRICITY AVAILABLE FOR AN ADDITIONAL $5/PER NIGHT 5 miles to Plymouth 25 miles to Cape Cod 45 miles to Boston
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The Hallow

15. The Hallow

Russell, MA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
The Hallow sits on seven acres in the hill towns of western Massachusetts, tucked away off Route 23 in Russell. The old post road runs through here — originally a Pocumtuc footpath, then the first mail route in the country. The land has been welcoming people for a long time, and we love to continue that tradition. Potash Brook flows through the property and connects to the Westfield River. Follow it to discover swimming holes, peaceful dip spots, and The Cauldron — a waterfall with a cliff jump and a natural rock slide. Wander through old-growth forest, mossy stone, wildflowers, ghost pipe, and other natural treasures. We currently offer one thoughtfully designed campsite, with just a few more to come, each with its own unique character and secluded nook along the brook. Always intimate and quietly communal — never a campground. Gather around the shared fire pit after dark. This is a place to slow down, move at the pace of the water, sleep beneath truly dark skies, and wake to sun-drenched moss and the gentle sound of the flowing brook.
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Peaceful Convenience

16. Peaceful Convenience

100%
(53)
Bolton, MA · 2 sites
Come experience New England, embrace the silence, enjoy this 2.5 Acres property Abutting over 100 acres of protected wetlands with access to a private Home; bathroom, screened in porch, use of kitchen for coffee etc. all to enjoy. A babbling brook, hammock trees, peaceful, and serene. The surrounding area is a right to farm community with local beautiful farms within five minutes in every direction property is on a known bike route (2 bikes available for use) The town host a wonderful winery local coffee shop and hiking trails (map book on site) multiple area conservation lands. Bolton is known for its apple farms in the fall for picking and spring time blossoms. August through September harvest (my favorite) plenty of pick your own everything! We have great historic towns surrounding us like concord, Harvard and Hudson voted best small town in America, so much history, dinning etc. cross country skiing. Convenient location to Boston. If looking for an stress free escape the home also offers 2 guest rooms available for rent within a meditative shared space. Fire pit outdoors, fireplace in doors.
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The Moose Caboose Country Farm

17. The Moose Caboose Country Farm

96%
(94)
Phillipston, MA · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
🌻 Roam over twelve acres of beautiful fields and rolling hills with New England stonewalls at The Moose Caboose Country Farm! The land boasts seasonal organic fruits for the plucking—including raspberries, peaches, pears, and apples! 🪵 Forage in the woods for free firewood for a campfire in a private peaceful country setting with excellent adventures and conveniences nearby including local farms, grocery stores, breweries with live music, hiking trails, and more! See a list of great places to visit below. ⛺️ All sites are first come first serve and may have a fire pit and/or table. Vivid nature and bright starry skies are unparalleled at The Moose Caboose Country Farm! **ARRIVAL INSTRUCTIONS** 🧭 The GPS will bring you to my mailbox—drive past it- white wooden arbor structure marks the entrance—drive onto the grass and into the field. 🦋 You are welcome to explore the property the propertyis surrounded by stonewalls; you can move available tables, chairs, and fire pits around as you like. No check in or check out needed—come and go as you please! 🏕️ Please be conscientious that the land is hilly, that camper trailers or RVs will likely need blocking, and tent campers prepare for a bit of a slope on some site locations. **PLACES TO VISIT NEARBY** PHILLIPSTON: 5-15 mins away ⛱️ Queen Lake Beach: 5 minute drive for swimming 🍎 Red Apple Farm : amazing country store, brick oven pizza, burgers and much more PETERSHAM: 15-20 mins away 👣 Brooks Woodland Preserve Hiking Trails: amazing trail hikes 🫐 Petersham Country Store: breakfast, sandwiches for lunch, plus anything you need GARDNER: 10-15 mins away 🍺 Gardner Ale House Restaurant 🛒 Hannaford Grocery Store 🥪 Jersey Mike's Sub Shop 🍔 99 Restaurant 💫 Walmart ATHOL: 10-15 mins away 🛒 Market Basket ☕️ Starbucks ☕️ Dunkin Donuts ERVING: ~20 mins away 🌳 Erving State Forest 💦 Laurel Lake: highly recommend—extremely beautiful!! HUBBARDSTON: ~15 mins away ⛱️ Comet Pond Sandy Beach WESTMINSTER: ~20 mins away 🍺 Wachusett Brewery: amazing beer, food & live music
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Quentins Treehouse

18. Quentins Treehouse

98%
(165)
Monterey, MA · 1 site
About the Space Welcome to our lakeside treehouse retreat on the shores of historic Lake Garfield—named after President Garfield, who once summered here. This unique stay is tucked away in the beautiful Berkshires at 1,200 feet elevation, making for cool, crisp nights and star-filled skies. Originally the boatshed for the President’s summer home, the treehouse was built 15 years ago as a cozy sleepout perfect for stargazing and unwinding in nature. The Treehouse Perched in the trees and draped in wisteria, the treehouse features a clear corrugated roof, full flyscreening, and canvas blinds—keeping it breezy and bug-free. There’s a comfy hanging double bed with a high-quality mattress. Please note: guests need to bring their own sheets, bedding, and pillows. Amenities Portable camp toilet located beneath the treehouse Weber BBQ Wifi access Floating jetty & dock Two paddleboards for guests to enjoy Crystal-clear lake water (great for swimming, fishing, and boating) Things to Do We’re just a 15-minute drive from Great Barrington or Lee—ideal for dining, shopping, or exploring local culture. Incredible hiking trails are scattered throughout the surrounding area. Good to Know Please respect the natural surroundings—no damaging trees or leaving litter. Firewood bundles are available at nearby gas stations or directly from me. I look forward to welcoming you to this peaceful, magical space in the Berkshires.
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Inn On The Horse Farm

19. Inn On The Horse Farm

94%
(27)
Sudbury, MA · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging
Guest have nine acres to wander around with old stone walls, towering majestic trees of all kinds and a Pond. There are two horses in the pastures, an Arabian Stallion and a Quarterhorse Mare. The walking trail goes all around the nine acres, past the horses in their pastures, past the pond where you can sit and enjoy the views.
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Goodfield Farm Rustic Camping

20. Goodfield Farm Rustic Camping

100%
(50)
Hardwick, MA · 1 site · Tent, RV
In the rolling hills of central Massachusetts, along the wandering path of the Ware River our farm is situated above the quaint village of Gilbertville. Our farm is walking distance from the Lost Towns Brewery, the Whistle Stop Diner, and Rose 32 bakery for all of your food needs. We are 15 minutes from the Quabbin Reservoir where you can walk or take your bike along the trails, and 15 minutes from the Swift River where there is world class trout fishing. Our farm boasts a large meadow, previously farmed by the Goodfield family for generations, overlooking a western hill range with long beautiful sunsets. We provide rustic camping on site, equipped with a fire pit and wood to use at your convenience. Consider us for a weekend getaway in the peaceful hills of central Mass, or reach out to us for longer stays. Park at the bottom of the hill and walk your way up to the campsite where a picnic table will be awaiting you.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Massachusetts camping guide

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Free camping in Massachusetts is limited, but there are a few options available. However, the Green Mountain National Forest is not one of them, as it is located entirely within Vermont. For free camping options in Massachusetts, campers should research other locations and follow Leave No Trace principles while being prepared for primitive camping with no facilities. Always check with the local ranger district for any restrictions or regulations before camping in a specific area.

Yes, camping is allowed in Massachusetts. The state offers a variety of camping options, including state parks, forests, and private campgrounds. Some popular camping destinations in Massachusetts include: 1. Massachusetts State Forests - Camping is available in several state forests, such as Myles Standish State Forest, Mohawk Trail State Forest, and October Mountain State Forest. 2. Massachusetts State Parks - Many state parks offer camping facilities, including Salisbury Beach State Reservation, Scusset Beach State Reservation, and Nickerson State Park. 3. Camping near Boston - For those looking to camp near the city, options include Harold Parker State Forest, Wompatuck State Park, and Boston Harbor Islands. 4. Glamping in Massachusetts - If you prefer a more luxurious camping experience, Massachusetts offers glamping options such as treehouses, yurts, and cabins. Remember to check each location's specific rules and regulations before planning your camping trip, as some sites may require reservations or have seasonal restrictions.

Yes, you can camp in the woods in Massachusetts, but you need to choose designated camping areas within state parks, forests, and other public lands. Some popular wooded campgrounds in Massachusetts include:

Make sure to follow all rules and regulations for camping in these areas, such as obtaining a permit or making a reservation if required. Dispersed camping (camping outside of designated campgrounds) is generally not allowed in Massachusetts state forests and parks. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment while camping.

The cost of camping in Massachusetts varies depending on the type of campsite and the amenities offered. Prices for tent and RV sites typically range from $15 to $50 per night, while cabins and other accommodations can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 per night. You can explore a variety of camping options in Massachusetts on Hipcamp, including cabins, Boston-area camping, and forest camping.

Winter camping in Massachusetts can be a unique and enjoyable experience if you're prepared for cold weather. Some campgrounds and state parks remain open year-round, offering winter camping options. Here are a few places to consider:

  • Mohawk Trail State Forest - This forest offers rustic cabin rentals during the winter months. Be prepared for cold conditions and limited facilities.
  • Normandy Farms Family Camping Resort - This campground, located in Foxboro, offers year-round camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and cabin rentals.
  • Private campgrounds and RV parks - Some private campgrounds and RV parks in Massachusetts remain open during the winter months. Check with individual locations for availability and amenities.

Remember to check weather forecasts, road conditions, and park alerts before heading out. Always come prepared with proper winter camping gear and clothing to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Plum Island is a barrier island off the coast of Massachusetts, and it is not open for public camping. The island is home to the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, which is a protected and restricted area. However, the Plum Island Airport is located in Newburyport, Massachusetts, and is not on Plum Island. It operates under specified hours. There are nearby campgrounds and RV parks on the mainland where you can stay and enjoy the surrounding area. For alternative camping options, you can explore Hipcamp.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Top national parks and forests in Massachusetts

Top regions in and near Massachusetts