The best dog-friendly campgrounds near Needham, Massachusetts

Camping with your pet in Needham is simple, thanks to over 2,200 spots where dogs and cats are welcome. Expect wooded corners, lakeside clearings, and plenty of hosts who actually enjoy meeting four-legged campers. Top picks like Cozy Wooded Nook (184 reviews), Rosy Goat Farm (175 reviews), and Souhegan Shores (134 reviews) all get high marks from regulars. Most sites allow campfires and showers, so you can rinse off after a day hiking, swimming, or catching glimpses of local wildlife. Prices start at $20 per night, with the average hovering around $53. If you want to stretch your legs—and your dog's—Needham makes it easy to find a spot that fits.

95% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Camping with your pet in Needham is simple, thanks to over 2,200 spots where dogs and cats are welcome. Expect wooded corners, lakeside clearings, and plenty of hosts who actually enjoy meeting four-legged campers. Top picks like Cozy Wooded Nook (184 reviews), Rosy Goat Farm (175 reviews), and Souhegan Shores (134 reviews) all get high marks from regulars. Most sites allow campfires and showers, so you can rinse off after a day hiking, swimming, or catching glimpses of local wildlife. Prices start at $20 per night, with the average hovering around $53. If you want to stretch your legs—and your dog's—Needham makes it easy to find a spot that fits.

95% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. SnugLife Camping

93%

(151)

45mi from Needham · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Wilton, NH

Keith & I are happy to share our 52-acre slice of paradise with campers and fellow dog-enthusiasts. Come enjoy the Souhegan River, the woods and the myriad activities that southern NH has to offer. We're only 65 miles from Boston, but feel like you've left the world behind... Find us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram: @snuglifecamping  - because... The snuggle is real...

2. Inn On The Horse Farm

91%

(17)

11mi from Needham · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging · Sudbury, MA

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.

3. The Moose Caboose Country Farm

95%

(77)

48mi from Needham · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Phillipston, MA

🌻 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, tomatoes, peppers, and apples! 🪵 Forage 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—an orange traffic cone and white wooden arbor structure mark the entrance—drive onto the grass and into the field. 🦋 You are welcome to explore the property; and to 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

4. Boston Harbor Islands

100%

(6)

19 sites · Hull, Massachusetts

Wilderness with a city view!... Tidepools, lighthouses and history meet beach and boating fun.

Toilets

Campfires

Picnic table

5. Wompatuck State Park

79%

(7)

248 sites · Hingham, Massachusetts

Discover Wompatuck State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

Electrical Hookup

Campfires

Showers

6. Terrybrook

36mi from Needham · 1 site · Lodging · Assonet, MA

Terrybrook – Your Off-Grid Sanctuary in the Woods Nestled on 40 peaceful acres beside the lush Freetown Forest in Assonet, Massachusetts, this cozy, off-grid cabin is your perfect escape. Heated yet secluded, the space offers rustic charm with all the essentials: WiFi for staying connected, and a 12V power source for charging devices. Wake up to bird song, explore nearby trails, or simply unwind on a hammock with a journal or a book. At night, build a campfire, gaze up at the stars, and breathe in the quiet solitude. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, a writer looking for inspiration, or just someone needing a reset — Terrybrook is your haven. Amenities include: • Campfires allowed • Potable water • Picnic table • Shower • Pet friendly With only one bedroom and a single bed, the cabin is perfectly tailored for two guests. And when you’re ready to explore, the forest is right outside your door — or stay in and recharge, both figuratively and literally. Escape the noise. Reconnect with nature. Recharge at Terrybrook.

7. Peaceful Convenience

100%

(53)

19mi from Needham · 2 sites · Lodging · Bolton, MA

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.

8. Winimusett Farm

100%

(37)

47mi from Needham · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · New Braintree, MA

Enjoy a tranquil weekend at Winimusett Farm, a 28 acre retreat on a nursery 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 solar powered battery pack for charging electronics, queen mattress, wood stove, outdoor fire pit, deck and a private outhouse. Hike up to the cabin, it’s a 4 minute walk from where you park. In addition to our cozy cabin we also offer 2 other private camp sites for guests to enjoy. See other listings for those sites. For more details please see this document linked below.

9. Goodfield Farm Rustic Camping

100%

(22)

49mi from Needham · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hardwick, MA

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.

10. Harold Parker State Forest

94%

(9)

84 sites · Andover, Massachusetts

Discover the natural allure of Harold Parker State Forest's trails and tranquil ponds.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

11. George Washington State Park

100%

(1)

50 sites · Pascoag, Rhode Island

Discover George Washington State Park's natural splendor and outdoor fun.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

12. Pearl Hill State Park

100%

(3)

47 sites · Townsend, Massachusetts

Discover the natural charm of Pearl Hill State Park.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

13. Willard Brook State Forest

19 sites · Townsend, Massachusetts

Discover the natural allure of Willard Brook State Forest.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

14. Cozy Wooded Nook

95%

(275)

37mi from Needham · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Carver, MA

A cozy 3 acres near Cranberry Bogs. We have 5 campsites available to choose from. 1 RV (& multi tent) site and 4 onsite trailers. There are additional various locations tucked into nooks for small tent and hammock camping. Short wooded trails for dog walks. Build a fire for enjoyment, or swivel the 30” grill top over, to cook. Campfires permitted. Wood for sale on-site is $5 per bundle — mix of pine, oak, maple, ash, and poplar. The randomly dispersed hammocks are perfect for relaxing, watching sunsets through the tree line or reading a book with the morning birds. Pet friendly. 25-foot tie-out cable available for use anywhere on the property. No dump stations or bathrooms on site. [Luggable Loo Bucket Toilet available for rent for $1] 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 30 AMP ELECTRICITY AVAILABLE FOR AN ADDITIONAL $10/PER NIGHT 5 miles to Plymouth 25 miles to Cape Cod 45 miles to Boston

15. Vintage camper, waterfront &firepit

94%

(110)

12mi from Needham · 3 sites · Lodging · Canton, MA

Get outside and bring the dog! Glamping tiny house style. Vintage RV with attached enclosed room. Your own waterfront beach with campfire pit.  Dogs welcome! Very close to neighbors in a quite secluded neighborhood, 10 miles from Boston. Experience the natural beauty of Massachusetts just a few miles outside of Boston, Blue Hills Reservation stretches over 7,000 acres with 125 miles of trails to explore through forests and wetlands, up hills and more.   Peace and serenity 19 miles from downtown Boston MA.   Bring the dog for swimming. Kayak and canoe in the back yard at the waters edge. Marshmallows and firewood included. Linens included. Space in backyard to pitch an extra tent for guests.  Parking on lot in front of camper. Hiking trails around the lake.

16. Glamping with the Wild Horses

94%

(32)

49mi from Needham · 13 sites · Lodging · Sterling, CT

Enjoy all that our beautiful 150 acres mustang sanctuary has to offer. 100% of net proceeds go to our 501c3 nonprofit’s mission to promote, train and adopt out America’s wild mustangs. Our property has over five miles of trails, seasonal blueberry and huckleberry picking, and one-of-a-kind experiences like hiking along side our free roaming herd of formerly wild mustangs, exploring the property on our off road safari tours, yoga in our dome and more! Check out our website and sign up for our email list for updates: wildridect.org/email

17. Ponderings at White Pond

98%

(53)

13mi from Needham · 1 site · Lodging · Concord Ma, MA

Once written about by Henry David Thoreau in Walden. He called it one of the "emerald eyes of the world" . A magical place yet so close to Boston.Learn more about this land:This winter we are offering up our cottage with an additional winterized tent for studio or additional guests. You need to walk about 100 yards down a gravel path to get to our secluded home. It is heated with two pellet stoves. One in the bedroom wing, the other in the livingroom/kitchen. Skating, ice fishing, and crosscountry skiing right outside your door when the weather is right. Peace and calm when the weather is harsh. The house is fully stocked with cooking. linens, and a bathroom. During the summer, glamping in our greenhouse-tent for peace and tranquility. It is under a canopy of trees with a cool pond breeze prevailing. The bed and linens are first rate for a very comfortable stay. There are shelves, potable water and a desk within. It is heated in the cool temps and fan cooled in the warmer days. There is a canoe and paddleboard available to borrow. The main house is attached by decks, the bathroom is shared with the main house and there is a kitchen for you to use. The 40 acre pond is 65 feet deep. It is a kettle pond which is spring fed with no river inlets to pollute it. Access is a little tricky with 100 yard hike from the parking area down a steep slope. The pond is stocked with bass and trout for great fishing. The birds are amazing. Henry David Thoreau wrote about White Pond in his book, Walden as the "emerald eyes of the world." This is a place that magic happens.

18. 8 Acres Homestead

88%

(83)

47mi from Needham · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Tiverton, RI

Enjoy this quaint and tranquil getaway. Close to local beaches, cafes, and shops. Our property is located in the picturesque, New England coastal town of Tiverton, Rhode Island. The property is located on a main road and consists of a family residence, a Christian church, and a small farm that sits high on a hill overlooking the Nanaquaket Pond. Pitch your tent, or park your car/van, in our backyard woodlands just off the main road with rustic walking paths to the Nannaquacket Pond. Take in the natural wildlife such as deer, groundhogs, songbirds, and our free-range chickens when they are out and about. The beauty of the countryside is right around the corner. Historic Tiverton Four Corners: 4 minutes South Shore Beach: 20 minutes Newport: 30 minutes Providence: 30 minutes

19. Quiet rural organic property

97%

(45)

45mi from Needham · 1 site · RV · East Kingston, NH

Learn more about this land: Only suitable for campers and RV's with their own toilet facilities. Site is level gravel driveway with use of backyard fire pit and table. Only one camper unit per night allowed in quiet rural neighborhood on small organic property. Seasonal organic vegetables, fruit and farm-fresh eggs available. Electric is 20 amp, so please check your air conditioner requirements. Can accommodate up to 30 ft unit. Pets welcome. 15 minutes from Kingston Lake State Park, 30 minutes from Hampton Beach State Park.

20. Magpie and Jaebird's Little A-frame

97%

(157)

22mi from Needham · 2 sites · Lodging · Bellingham, MA

Follow us on Instagram @shitefootfarms As always we are excited and can't wait to share our place with you! We are a small farmette with goats, chickens, ducks, fruits, veggies, and Irish Wolfhounds. The 1.3 acre parcel across the street from the house and farm has a forested peninsula that the A-frame is located on. Our street ends in a small stream that continues to separate the farmstead from the A-frame site. Come stay in our tiny rustic A frame cabin built of mostly reclaimed materials. Enjoy being across the stream and over the bridge from the main house on a private peninsula. Enjoy the privacy of a "single site" camp! Use the fire pit, grill, outdoor wood stove, single burner butane stove or umm the bathroom :) without having to leave your site! Please be aware we are in town and you may hear road noise, lawn mowers, dogs, ect. You may also see and hear wildlife ex; deer, beavers, ducks, muskrats, rabbits, geese, foxes, and coyotes. We encourage native plants and work to provide a sanctuary for many threatened bird species. The cabin is 100sq. feet with sloping interior walls the flip up side wall is permanently open and screened in. There is no running water or electricity so unplug and unwind. A place to plug in and the water spigot a short stroll from your cabin in the driveway The cabin has a a full size mattress with sheets, blankets, throws and pillows. Lanterns, cooking utensils, camp mugs and camp coffee pot are provided. Please request the cast iron skillet and butane burner, it will not be in the cabin if you do not ask for it. You are also welcome to set up your own tent. Please note cleared space is limited and the tent should be a 1-3 person smaller tent. Outside on the deck are tiki torches, woodstove and bistro table. There is a hammock, picnic table, and 2 sets of outdoor chairs at your site. We do not have a swimming hole but the town beach is 5 minutes away and requires a day pass. If you forget something you are a short walk to Cumbies, and several farms, bakeries and a large grocer are a very short drive away. Venture farther (10 minutes) to one of the nearby hiking trails. We are within 15 minutes of the Blackstone Gorge, Southern New England Trunkline Trail, Cornier Woods, Franklin State Forest, Wojcik Farm, Cook's Valley Farm, the New England Bonsai Museum, Diamond Hill Vineyards, Caroline's Cannabis, Shire Conservation Area, New England Country Club, and many stables. The Commuter Rail to Boston, Wrentham Premium Outlets, and a Drive-in Theater are within 30 minutes. Use us as a base to explore Blackstone Valley, Boston and Worcester!! Please let us know if you need something we may have it, we want you to enjoy your stay!! Follow us on Instagram for updates on our favorite local spots for hiking, eating, entertainment and shopping. We Support Black Lives Matter, the LBGTQ+, AAPI and BIPoC communities @shitefootfarms. Visit our Instagram profile, follow and dm for a 15% discount code

Camper favorites near Needham

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Quiet rural organic property

97%

(45)

45mi from Needham · 1 site · RV · East Kingston, NH

Learn more about this land: Only suitable for campers and RV's with their own toilet facilities. Site is level gravel driveway with use of backyard fire pit and table. Only one camper unit per night allowed in quiet rural neighborhood on small organic property. Seasonal organic vegetables, fruit and farm-fresh eggs available. Electric is 20 amp, so please check your air conditioner requirements. Can accommodate up to 30 ft unit. Pets welcome. 15 minutes from Kingston Lake State Park, 30 minutes from Hampton Beach State Park.

Magpie and Jaebird's Little A-frame

97%

(157)

22mi from Needham · 2 sites · Lodging · Bellingham, MA

Follow us on Instagram @shitefootfarms As always we are excited and can't wait to share our place with you! We are a small farmette with goats, chickens, ducks, fruits, veggies, and Irish Wolfhounds. The 1.3 acre parcel across the street from the house and farm has a forested peninsula that the A-frame is located on. Our street ends in a small stream that continues to separate the farmstead from the A-frame site. Come stay in our tiny rustic A frame cabin built of mostly reclaimed materials. Enjoy being across the stream and over the bridge from the main house on a private peninsula. Enjoy the privacy of a "single site" camp! Use the fire pit, grill, outdoor wood stove, single burner butane stove or umm the bathroom :) without having to leave your site! Please be aware we are in town and you may hear road noise, lawn mowers, dogs, ect. You may also see and hear wildlife ex; deer, beavers, ducks, muskrats, rabbits, geese, foxes, and coyotes. We encourage native plants and work to provide a sanctuary for many threatened bird species. The cabin is 100sq. feet with sloping interior walls the flip up side wall is permanently open and screened in. There is no running water or electricity so unplug and unwind. A place to plug in and the water spigot a short stroll from your cabin in the driveway The cabin has a a full size mattress with sheets, blankets, throws and pillows. Lanterns, cooking utensils, camp mugs and camp coffee pot are provided. Please request the cast iron skillet and butane burner, it will not be in the cabin if you do not ask for it. You are also welcome to set up your own tent. Please note cleared space is limited and the tent should be a 1-3 person smaller tent. Outside on the deck are tiki torches, woodstove and bistro table. There is a hammock, picnic table, and 2 sets of outdoor chairs at your site. We do not have a swimming hole but the town beach is 5 minutes away and requires a day pass. If you forget something you are a short walk to Cumbies, and several farms, bakeries and a large grocer are a very short drive away. Venture farther (10 minutes) to one of the nearby hiking trails. We are within 15 minutes of the Blackstone Gorge, Southern New England Trunkline Trail, Cornier Woods, Franklin State Forest, Wojcik Farm, Cook's Valley Farm, the New England Bonsai Museum, Diamond Hill Vineyards, Caroline's Cannabis, Shire Conservation Area, New England Country Club, and many stables. The Commuter Rail to Boston, Wrentham Premium Outlets, and a Drive-in Theater are within 30 minutes. Use us as a base to explore Blackstone Valley, Boston and Worcester!! Please let us know if you need something we may have it, we want you to enjoy your stay!! Follow us on Instagram for updates on our favorite local spots for hiking, eating, entertainment and shopping. We Support Black Lives Matter, the LBGTQ+, AAPI and BIPoC communities @shitefootfarms. Visit our Instagram profile, follow and dm for a 15% discount code

Turtle Path Camping Site

96%

(40)

18mi from Needham · 1 site · RV · Hopkinton, MA

Our driveway is located about 3 miles from the start of the Boston Marathon, 8 minutes from 495, but, down a country road. We find our property to be quite peaceful. We do have crickets and frogs to lull you to sleep and early birds to greet you in the morning.  Keep an eye out for turtles! We are a few hundred yards from either Upton State Forest or Lake Whitehall. Lake Whitehall is popular with boaters (speed limit enforced) and is stocked with fish. No swimming. There is a public boat ramp on the other side of the lake. We often put in our kayaks at the entrance close to our house. We hike, mountain bike and picnic in these parks. It's really beautiful.  There is a 24-hour grocery store 2 miles down the road.  The gravel campsite is located at the barn end of our driveway in front of the red barn. There is a little privacy from the house, but, we may need to get into the barn from time to time. We have a 30amp and water hookup at the barn. If planning on using electric please add one "electric hookup" extra to each night of your stay BEFORE finishing the request to book, it's really difficult to add it after. Please plan to bring 50' of hose and/or 25ft of electrical cord if using hookups. There is wifi, BUT, it's pretty weak at the barn. Definitely not strong enough for streaming! Our Ibex camper may or may not be parked next to the barn depending on if we are out camping!  We do not accept car campers. Turtle Path also has a Guest Suite. Find us on that other website! Shortly after we moved in we discovered a large snapping turtle on his way from Lake Whitehall to the creek at the back of our property. Our neighbor told us that's the turtle's usual route. Turtle won our hearts that day.

Moose's Midnight Getaway

92%

(39)

45mi from Needham · 2 sites · RVs · Tiverton, RI

Learn more about this land: Located in Tiverton, RI. Access to local RI beaches, great seafood, hiking rails, and tower lookout. 2-3 miles away from the town center, beach, and boat ramp.  Newport is just a short 15 mile/ 24 minute drive away. 3 miles away there is access to a fresh water pond with a boat ramp (Watuppa Pond). **Campers only - no tents**

Secluded spot in nature

94%

(44)

32mi from Needham · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Worcester, MA

We have a lovely site to camp right in the city. It is secluded and surrounded by nature. But still close to all the conveniences Worcester has to offer. We have a fun yard with an in-ground trampoline and zip line. The heated pool is available until late October. Pool is an added amenity and must be booked in advance. It is also listed on Swimply.

Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground

94%

(86)

24mi from Needham · 100 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Littleton, MA

Escape the bustle without sacrificing convenience at Spacious Skies Minute Man. Nestled in historic Littleton’s pine forests, our campground offers a peaceful retreat steps away from iconic National Historic Parks and Walden Pond. Choose wooded or open sites for your RV or tent, enjoy modern amenities like our heated pool and rec hall, and let the kids and pups run free in the playground and dog runs. Need a break from cooking? Our camp store has you covered, plus local restaurants deliver! Cozy cabins are also available. Don’t miss out on this unique blend of nature and city access – book your stay today! Relax in the heart of history at Spacious Skies Minute Man. Our campground’s tranquil, wooded setting near legendary Walden Pond and National Historic Parks offers the perfect escape from everyday life. Whether you’re in an RV, tent, or one of our cozy cabins, you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable adventure: picnic tables, fire rings, full hookups, plus a heated pool, playground, rec hall, and even dog runs for your furry companions. Need a break from camp cooking? Our well-stocked camp store has essentials, and nearby restaurants offer takeout and delivery options for those lazy campground evenings. Explore the rich history of the region, immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility, or take a quick trip into Boston – the choice is yours! Spacious Skies Minute Man provides a unique blend of outdoor adventure and urban access. Don’t miss your chance to experience the best of both worlds! Our prime location and fantastic amenities mean sites fill up quickly. Book your getaway today and create memories that will last a lifetime at Spacious Skies Minute Man.

Rosy Goat Farm

99%

(231)

49mi from Needham · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Gilbertville, MA

Welcome to Rosy Goat Farm!! We are the quintessential family farm/homestead, our farmhouse was built in the 1840’s Bill and I bought this 13-acre property in 2012, It was overgrown with wild roses. We have worked with a limited budget, and used animals to clear the land. The goats love the wild roses. The pigs dig the roses up. Chickens rake it clean. Win win! Very interesting place here- lots to tell you, there’s quite a list of things to do and see around here! Did you know that Gilbertville has a covered bridge? It is one of the last covered bridges still in use in Massachusetts! First- a touch of Hardwick History: Rev. Timothy Ruggles bought this land from the Native Americans for his family to live on, and to work the land. His son, Brigadeer General Timothy Ruggles became unpopular after he introduced the Stamp Act, and was banished to Nova Scotia. His daughter Bathsheba became the last woman executed in the United States for the murder of her husband Joshua Spooner. (There’s a book about it called Murdered by his wife, by Deborah Navas.) Want to know local eateries? For breakfasts and lunch there is The Whistle Stop diner, it was a former Boston & Albany Railroad station. Speaking of railroads, did you know that The Mass Central Rail Trail runs through Gilbertville! Rose 32, is a well known bakery that serves tea, coffee and sandwiches. There’s Hardwick house of Pizza- for tasty pizza and subs, which also serves beer. Feeling fancy? Try Hardwick Crossing Country Club (features a 9 hole golf course), it has a restaurant with a full-service bar, gorgeous scenery! Its a 3 minute drive from here Mimi’s for your morning coffee and lunch, yum! And it overlooks our beautiful Common! Also check out Stone Cow Brewery in Barre -has a kids play area while you wait for your meal! Ware has Mexicali Grill, Theresa’s Restaurant for Italian foods, Bellies Barnyard for traditional American cuisine, and, Pig Park BBQ for comfort food! Farmer Mat in North Brookfield has take out meals- there are picnic tables available, beautiful views. Things to do: You can kayak, and fish, at Swift River in Belchertown. Hardwick is the home of the oldest agricultural fair in the US, held every year in August, and, every Sunday there’s a small farmers market on the common. Hardwick also has a winery- Hardwick Vineyard and Winery, they have all kinds of events, (find them on facebook) and, check out Lost Towns brewery- the name is a throwback to the 4 towns that were submerged to create the Quabbin Reservoir! Medicine River Pow Wow is in August here in Gilbertville, on River Run Rd. The East Quabbin Land Trust has birdwatching and fabulous views, and the Mass Central Rail Trail entrance is located here. Bike it or hike it! Quabbin Reservoir is close by for boating and fishing. There are free concerts in Grenville Park in Ware, (check for dates). Ware also has Janine’s Frostee ice cream and fast foods- and live music on weekend nights! Also check out these on line: Ragged Hill orchard and Rock House Reservation in West Brookfield, and Carter and Stevens farm in Barre. The Leicester, and Mendon movie drive-in’s. Old Sturbridge village is 30 minutes away. Lake Lashaway has a swimming area in East Brookfield, right off of Rte 9. It’s about 20 minutes from here. Lake Siog in Holland has a lovely picnic area and beach for swimming. (30 mins South from here) Is this area great or what?!

Milk Thistle Farm

96%

(34)

46mi from Needham · 4 sites · Tents · Greene, RI

With the original home built in 1785, Milk Thistle farm is on the historic register and is comprised of the main house and 5 acres of land. It is run as a small non-profit animal sanctuary and is home to rescued chickens, goats, and pigs, as well as two humans and their dog and cat companions. The main property is fenced in, with a large back field great for tent camping, and an orchard to explore that can also double as hammock camping. There is parking for cars and bikes. We try to minimize our impact on the environment as much as possible, and encourage our guests to compost, recycle, and dispose of waste accordingly. Please note we have dogs, including a Livestock Guardian Dog that does bark to alert us of new people and warn off would be predators. We will happily introduce him to any guests to minimize disruptions. Check us out on instagram @milk_thistle_farm

Public campgrounds near Needham

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Boston Harbor Islands

16mi from Needham · 19 sites · in Boston Harbor Islands

79%

(7)

Wompatuck Campground

21mi from Needham · 248 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wompatuck State Park

When there's few people around and skies are clear, who needs a tent? Campsite #75.

94%

(9)

Harold Parker Campground

25mi from Needham · 84 sites · Tents, RVs · in Harold Parker State Forest

100%

(1)

George Washington State Campground

36mi from Needham · 50 sites · Tents, RVs · in George Washington State Park

100%

(3)

Pearl Hill Campground

37mi from Needham · 47 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pearl Hill State Park

Willard Brook Campground

38mi from Needham · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Willard Brook State Forest

West Thompson Lake Campground

41mi from Needham · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in West Thompson Lake

Stateline Campresort & Cabins

41mi from Needham · 243 sites · Tents, RVs · in Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor

Thin trunk trees.. just the right size to hug if you're a hippy... ;)

79%

(12)

Myles Standish Campground

42mi from Needham · 372 sites · Tents, RVs · in Myles Standish State Forest

100%

(5)

Wells Campground

43mi from Needham · 57 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wells State Park

70%

(8)

Salisbury Beach Campground

44mi from Needham · 458 sites · Tents, RVs · in Salisbury Beach State Reservation

Breakneck Pond Campsite

48mi from Needham · 1 site · in Nipmuck State Forest

Stories from the community

Marlo

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Goodfield Farm Rustic Camping

What stands out to me is the amazing scenery and simplicity, this truly is rustic camping at its finest wether you’re in a tent, RV or car camping. This is my second time here and Im already planning another trip. The owners are fantastic with communication and I feel 100% safe here. Lots of log firewood is provided along with a pit and a newer picnic table. A kettle & some utensils are on site as well, if needed. Highly recommended. The owls hooting at night is peaceful and if it’s a clear sky, look up. The stars are so bright & clear due to no light pollution.

J

Joseph

3 weeks ago

24 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Inn On The Horse Farm

Great experience. Met the host right when I arrived. Very convenient location to Concord and all of the Thoreau sites. I was left alone (which I always like when camping), and the site had a nice view off the back for stargazing at night. Would use it again if I am in the area.

Jaap

3 weeks ago

22 ft Class B

1 night at Cozy Wooded Nook

We had a great night at this hipcamp and enjoyed the iron fire pit.The place was well maintained and Kathleen is a great host.

A

Anna

3 weeks ago

26 ft travel trailer

With pets

7 nights at Turtle Path Camping Site

Emily and her husband were very kind and accommodating. They have a lovely property and, while tricky to back into, it was a great place to be for a week. The woods behind the house are nice and there are many trails nearby to hike and explore. Quiet, pleasant , and beautiful area all around.

S

Sandrine

November 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Quiet rural organic property

Julie is a perfect host. She was welcoming and resourceful. We love her space and it's proximity to Boston

E

Elena

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Winimusett Farm

A friend and I stayed here over the weekend in mid-November. We enjoyed our trip, the cabin is cozy, and Misty was very communicative and helpful! The directions were thorough, and we had no problem using the cabin. Outside temperature was ~28-45°F, but the wood stove was very effective and the cabin became very toasty. One thing to note is that the solar-powered battery banks had little charge. The string lights only worked for 20 minutes on our first night, and their battery banks did not recharge the next day. The large solar-powered battery bank that powered the lamp in the corner had only about 6 hours of charge. We're guessing that the weak fall sun, combined with cloudy conditions, meant these battery banks didn't fully charge. This might be something to consider when packing for a fall/winter trip. We're glad we brought flashlights, a rechargeable lamp, and some pillar candles. We also brought our own kitchen supplies; not sure what to expect, but there were plenty of utensils, cookware, etc., even if we hadn't brought our own. The floor needed a little sweep when we arrived, but everything else was clean. Overall, we enjoyed our stay!

J

Jessica

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Peaceful Convenience

It was a perfect spot to stop off and refuel after a week on the road in our van. Thank you for having us Danielle!

Stacey

November 2025

31 ft Class C

3 nights at Cozy Wooded Nook

This was a great place to stay. Kathleen couldn’t have been more hospitable and the property is wildly private and absolutely beautiful in the Fall. We hope to stay here again someday.

A

Amy

November 2025

21 ft campervan

With pets

3 nights at Moose's Midnight Getaway

Easy to book and set up camp. Instructions/guidelines clear and eady to follow. Host is responsive.

O

Oxana

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Vintage camper, waterfront &firepit

It’s a beautiful place to get away from the city, recommended.

A

Amir

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Goodfield Farm Rustic Camping

This a is an amazing place. So private with amazing open field and astonishing sky and star view. We went there once and then reserved it for three other weekends again. In my next review I’ll share some amazing images as well. It provide free fire wood 🪵 which is another great option at this location. This was the best camp site ever for us.

T

Timothy

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Goodfield Farm Rustic Camping

Great view. Very private. Looks out on a large field. Hosts were nice too.

K

Kimberly

October 2025

35 ft Class A

With pets

29 nights at Moose's Midnight Getaway

Extremely peaceful site, very quiet. Exactly what we needed!! We were there for the whole month of October without any issues. Tristan is so nice and friendly. Would absolutely recommend this site!!

J

Jessenia

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Quiet rural organic property

Very nice quiet area to stop and Julie was nice and welcoming.

Marlo

October 2025

1 night at Inn On The Horse Farm

I absolutely loved this country setting and historic 1800’s cottage. It’s basically a whole house to yourself. You will want for nothing. Just bring yourself, clothes & food. There are pots, pans, dishes, utensils and everything you need for a relaxing stay. I sat in the kitchen most of the time, to watch the beautiful horse right outside the sliding glass door. Moonfield I believe his name is. I walked around the property and took in all the charm of this place. It’s decorated appropriately and suits this cottage perfectly. The queen bed was the most comfortable sleep Ive had in a long time. Joan responded to any questions I had with lighting speed. This was the perfect getaway and I can’t wait to book again in the future.

E

Erika

October 2025

3 nights at Inn On The Horse Farm

Had a pleasant three night stay. Clean and well equipped. Felt very safe and comfortable as a single female traveler.

S

Siobhan

October 2025

Weekend Trip to SnugLife Camping

Jody and Keith’s site was beautiful. The stove in the tent kept it cozy throughout the autumn night. They provided a garden cart to transport our things which was helpful. The air mattress was as comfortable as an air mattress can be. Jody and Keith recommended that we bring lights, since we were arriving after sunset, but we foolishly overestimated the power of our phone flashlights. So definitely bring a few lanterns. I would definitely stay again. It was beautiful by the river.

J

Jeffrey

October 2025

18 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Rosy Goat Farm

This place was amazing, very private site super quiet at night and the animals were a bonus. Really wish we had more time but were only in town for a wedding, can’t say anything bad about this place. The surrounding area has lots of trails and looked very nice. Definitely would stay again if we are in the area.

B

Brett

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Winimusett Farm

Awesome place, 10/10. My friend and I had a great night at the cabin. Huge property. Cabin is up on the hill. Well out-fitted. Great big open space down below. The hill is non-trivial, but Eric helped us bring up some of our gear in his tractor. Eric was very friendly, and Misty (with whom I communicated with messaging) was also very friendly and responsive. This was my first experience with HipCamp and it was excellent. Highly recomment.

S

Steve

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Goodfield Farm Rustic Camping

Perfect private getaway for me any pup! Awesome view and plenty of space to setup camp however best suits you! I'd recommend bringing a hatchet or small axe to split the firewood provided as they were presented as just large logs.