- Harold Parker State Forest/
- Camping
The best camping in Harold Parker State Forest, MA
94% (9)
Discover the natural allure of Harold Parker State Forest's trails and tranquil ponds.
94% (9)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Harold Parker State Forest adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Harold Parker State Forest
Harold Parker Campground
1. Harold Parker Campground
94%
(9)
Come hang your hammock in groves of hardwood, hemlock, and white pine forest at the Harold Park State Forest Campground
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Campfires
Top-rated campsites near Harold Parker State Forest
Bakers Island Light Campsite
1. Bakers Island Light Campsite
100%
(115)
16mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 3 sites
Bakers Island Light Station sits on Bakers Island in Salem Sound, is a 60-acre island with a large summer colony. and guides ships in and out of Salem Harbor.
The 10-acre light station includes the 59 ft. tall lighthouse, historic structures such as two keepers' houses, an oil house, and a lantern room (now a gift shop). Formerly owned by the U.S. Coast Guard, the deed was transferred on August 27, 2014, to the Essex National Heritage Commission (Essex Heritage), a non-profit dedicated to public access and preservation.
ABOUT THE CAMPSITE
Enjoy off-the-grid coastal living at the Bakers Island Light Station Campsite. With only three camp sites, it's an intimate and private retreat — set up your tent on a raised platform, meet the summer lighthouse keepers, stroll the island trails, and unwind — just three miles off the coast of Salem!
GETTING TO CAMP
The only way to reach the campsite is by boat. Three options are available:
1. Our landing craft, the Naumkeag — $70/adult, $50/child (ages 4–12). Departs from Blaney Street Dock. Contact us to purchase tickets. You must provide the first and last name of each passenger.
2. Your own boat + mooring rental — $50/night. You will need your own dinghy to get ashore, as there is no dock. Contact us to reserve a mooring.
3. Kayak — For experienced kayakers only. The island sits in a busy channel with potentially rough waters.
All campers must arrange transportation after booking. Details will be sent upon confirmation.
IMPORTANT
The $60/night fee covers up to 4 people per site. Maximum capacity is 4 people per site, and names of all guests must be provided before arrival.
Toilets
Picnic table
Patti's Beaver Pond
2. Patti's Beaver Pond
100%
(11)
18mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 1 site
We are in a suburban area (Lincoln, MA) which is next to Concord and Lexington. This is a historical area with Lexington Battle Green, historical houses and civil war reenactments. We are close to Walden Pond and many hiking and bike trails. We are also close to the communter train to Boston and surrounds. Email if you need additional info about how to get into other towns.
Electrical hookup
Pets
Quiet rural organic property
3. Quiet rural organic property
97%
(47)
20mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 1 site
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.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Ponderings at White Pond
4. Ponderings at White Pond
98%
(53)
21mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 1 site
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.
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Showers
Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground
5. Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground
94%
(86)
24mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 99 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Wildcat
6. Wildcat
98%
(50)
24mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 1 site
Campsites are situated in the wooded area on our property land that integrates into hundreds of acres of conservation land with hiking trails that are also great for XC skiing, kettle ponds, and wetlands. The property is surrounded on 3 sides by conservation land with trails, 45 minutes from Boston and 10 minute drive to groceries, stores and restaurants.
The house is right off a country road with our property and conservation land both across the street and behind our house. The area is in the heart of New England and is beautiful at all times of year. Minutes from Rte 495 and 2, we are along a popular bike route, 10 minutes from Carlson Orchards and the bistro/cafe Harvard General Store.
We have goats, chickens, and lambs that guests can say hi to.
Please note: Guests may camp only on the terrace unless otherwise approved. There is a woodpile next to the parking - we regret thqt we cannot share this with guests but it’s our winter heat source!
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
Inn On The Horse Farm
7. Inn On The Horse Farm
92%
(19)
24mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 2 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
F.a.C Campout
8. F.a.C Campout
95%
(235)
24mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 9 sites
A shared space for the animals and the artist. We are working on becoming sustainable into the future where we can gather to work on our art in a loving natural and healthy environment. We welcome you to come relax and rejuvinate on this sacred ground. We ask you respectfully carry in carry out any trash. The farm can accommodate and accept your empty recyclables and compostable material (meat is NOT an allowed compost item). Please arrive before dark to guarantee reservation as meet and greet required as well as to be shown area. Our family practices kindness and encourages community. #NFA ⚡
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Toilets
Potable water
Peaceful Convenience
9. Peaceful Convenience
100%
(53)
28mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 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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Toilets
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Boulder Brook
10. Boulder Brook
98%
(174)
30mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 4 sites
Secluded in the wilderness, Boulder Brook Hipcamp has private tent sites right next to a babbling brook. The access road is a nice gravel .6 mile long road that is not maintained in the Winter. There is firewood for sale via Venmo right in the parking area, $6 per bundle. There is also a nice outhouse. There are 4 first come, first serve sites with tent platforms and fire pits. There is quick access to the Rockingham Recreational Trail, which is ideal for walking, mountain biking, and exploring. There is also a great swimming hole nearby called Chivers Pond. The campsites are located on the back corner of the Chivers Farm property and seasonal farm goods will be available for campers to purchase coming in 2025.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Harveys Hill
11. Harveys Hill
100%
(41)
30mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Harvey’s Hill is a private hilltop campsite with 360° sky views, unbeatable stargazing, and access to our rustic Cantina featuring bathrooms, warm running water, and a basic kitchen. Just 10 minutes off the highway in Epping, NH, it’s the perfect stopover or peaceful escape.
Harvey's Hill has been a beloved part of Epping for generations. In the summer, you might see small planes taking off from the hilltop airstrip or locals walking their dogs up to catch the sunset. In the fall, my aunt Erica makes donuts down in the Milk Room, and in the winter, the hill fills with sledders racing down its snowy slope.
Many celebrations have taken place here over the years, including weddings, reunions, and picnics.
The Cantina is a new addition to the top of the hill. It includes three bathrooms, a kitchen, and electricity. While simple and minimalist, these amenities make the site more comfortable, and we hope they enhance your stay.
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Vintage camper, waterfront &firepit
12. Vintage camper, waterfront &firepit
94%
(110)
33mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 1 site
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.
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SnugLife Camping
13. SnugLife Camping
93%
(155)
37mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
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...
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Toilets
Campfires
Turtle Path Camping Site
14. Turtle Path Camping Site
96%
(40)
38mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 1 site
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.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Pine Brook Retreat
15. Pine Brook Retreat
100%
(13)
38mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 1 site
I’ve lived on this property for over 40 years of my life, exploring and camping many times in these woods. I decided to build an A-frame cabin perched on the hill that overlooks the brook a few years back and it has quickly become my happy place.
This site is a great space to be in the woods, but not too far from things. You can explore the 15+ acres of woods, take a dip in the water, forage mushrooms or just sit under the pines.
The cabin is just a few minute walk past the tree line and very private. We are thrilled to share this beautiful peaceful space with you. .
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Dreamy field Wilton
16. Dreamy field Wilton
95%
(20)
38mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to my dream property! I used to come here as a child and a year ago my animals and I picked up the keys to this glorious land. I’m constantly enhancing the property. Come check it out! Plenty of options to set up anywhere in the field and you’ll only share the field with one other campsite! You’re welcome to use a hose by the house for your basic camping needs. I’m new to this. Let’s work together.
There is light traffic along the main road(hill), with people commuting to work or the occasional tractor but plenty of space to roam, hike, and explore around. Wilton is a great location to explore neighboring towns as well, drivable to Temple mountain/pack monadnock, mount monadnock, and Pat's peak/crotched mountain ski resort. This is pack in pack out.
My animals and I live here so there are people in and out during the day. I communicate as quick as possible(may not be until next day if it’s late at night), if you need anything just reach out though. If any emergency please call 911.
As one person already found out, yes there are bugs here and no I won’t treat for them with pesticides. The yard by the fire pit is treated with essential oils though! You’re welcome to use it! Sorry! This in NOT a place for glampers(yet. Maybe some day!) happy hip camping!
To enter* drive in driveway and take a left in front of the house, under the maple tree and ON FHE GRASS AROUND the fire pit and chairs. Then follow mowed path out to end of field. Follow any mowed area to set up your camp. Enjoy!
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Sunset Hill Orchard
17. Sunset Hill Orchard
100%
(17)
39mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Sunset Hill Orchard was operated as a family-managed fully operating Apple Orchard from the 1940s until 2000. The Orchard still has hundreds of apple trees and in the transition to the next generation, hosted events for many years. We have a beautifully manicured clearing with a fire pit and the second largest ash Tree in the state of NH; The New Hampshire Big Tree County Champion for Hillsboro County. We decided to shift our offering to a more community-oriented and environment-friendly area.
Sunset Hill Orchard sits atop a hill with views of local hiking areas like the Uncanookic Mountains and on a clear winter day Pats Peak.
We would like a tent(s) set up to find ideal spots around the manicured grass around the ash tree to maintain the area. Just like wilderness adventures, there could be poison ivy, sumac, and other uncomfortable part of nature, please always use caution.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Suncook River Camp
18. Suncook River Camp
100%
(15)
39mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Enjoy the outdoors of New Hampshire, just an hour outside of Boston, and located 5 minutes from Bear Brook State Park. Fishing, kayaking, river tubing, and hiking are all right in our backyard.
Suncook River Camp is under new ownership (2024). We can't wait to spend time with you on the river this season.
We offer everything from bring-your-own tent sites to upscale vintage camper experiences. Our campground has bathroom and brand new shower facilities onsite, or bring your RV and just plug and play.
Come to Southern NH's Suncook River: canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards (SUPs), or your best alligator floatie. We're waiting for you. The Suncook River also offers some of the best fishing and wildlife watching around!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Appleseed Flower Farm at York Beach
19. Appleseed Flower Farm at York Beach
94%
(26)
41mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Surround yourself in the natural beauty of a working flower farm in Maine in this quiet, secluded location that's close to area beaches, lighthouses, and more. Located about an acre behind our family home (which you can see from the spot), the camp site is within steps of our barn, which has both running water and electrical hookups (20amps) for campers to use. An open field next door plays host to numerous deer and turkeys, and the flower fields feature a rotating lineup of beautiful blooms (depending on the time of the season.)
We are located off a busy street where cars drive a little too fast — if you have a dog that needs to be walked daily, we would recommend stopping by the beach or one of the many nearby walking trails instead of venturing down the road.
Max length of vehicles is 30 feet -- we've found that any longer and the turns are too tight.
10 mins to grocery store (Hannaford) and gas stations
12 mins to local beaches (Long Sands and Short Sands)
15 mins to Portsmouth, NH
20 mins to Nubble Lighthouse
25 mins to Ogunquit, ME
35 mins to Kennebunkport, ME
45 mins to Portland, ME
This is a working flower flower farm and on occasion there will need to be someone working in the field near to the campsite, often during the very early hours of the morning (5am during the spring and summer, later in the fall.) That said, we don't use tractors or any heavy machinery and we will always make our best effort to communicate this ahead of time.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Country Camping
20. Country Camping
95%
(21)
41mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 1 site
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
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jack
5 days ago
24 ft Class C
With pets
The owner Rick was great. Booking was fast and responsive with clear directions for parking. The property is gorgeous with flowering trees, pond, pergolas. Would highly recommend this location.
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J
Josh
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Great camping spot! We chose site #1 and it fit all 5 of us very comfortably. Nice big fire pit & well secluded. Slight noise from the highway but the soothing sounds of the brook downed it out. I’ll definitely be coming back!
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A
Abby
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Pine Brook Retreat
Gorgeous scenery, attentive host, and very friendly dog. Had a great stay!
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N
Natacha
2 weeks ago
24 ft Class C
We enjoyed staying at Julie’s place!
Her house is on a quiet street and the beautiful town of Portsmouth is close by.
The site was leveled, and came with water and electricity.
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C
Christine
April 2026
2 nights at SnugLife Camping
This camp had everything you need. Awesome spot. You can hear the water right outside tge tent. Has chairs for you by fire and cooking area. Cool spot would come back!!!
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jiajing
March 2026
Tent
This was our second time booking Peter’s campsite. The first time we came, everything was covered in snow, so we didn’t really get into the campsite.
This time, we chose a spot right by the river. Falling asleep to the sound of the water and waking up with sunlight shining into the tent was such a beautiful experience.
What we really love about this place is how private it feels. Even if the campground is full in the summer, you can’t see other sites nearby — it still feels quiet and secluded.
We will definitely come back again. I’m sure it will feel completely different in the summer.
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Billy
March 2026
Tent
With kids
Great spot right on the brook! My son and I had an amazing time
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A
Andrew
March 2026
Tent
I camped at Cheryl,s wonderfully hip camp pre season. She and her family were so accommodating and welcoming. Even though they are dealing with a difficult personal issues they took the time to prepare a pre-season campsite for me and even invited me to join them around thier evening campfire. Thank you Cheryl.. I will definitely spread the good word!!
See morej
jiajing
March 2026
Tent
We originally booked another campsite, but it turned out to be really disappointing, so we decided to cancel last minute and look for another option. That’s when we found Peter.
When we arrived, the ground was still covered in snow and we had trouble finding the way in. Peter immediately came out to meet us and personally guided us to the site, which we really appreciated.
Since we were the only ones camping that night, he kindly told us to pick any spot we liked. The place itself is very private, peaceful, and absolutely beautiful — there’s even a small waterfall nearby, which made the experience even more special.
Overall, it turned out to be such a great and memorable stay. Thank you, Peter, for being so helpful and welcoming!
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J
Jeffrey
January 2026
Tent
Another great stay. Love the site and property. Well kept and always enjoy listening there Brook running.
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L
Lucie
January 2026
1 night at SnugLife Camping
Beautiful spot to camp along the river during winter! We were there on New Year's Day 2026 for an overnight under the almost-full-moon, and our last-minute booking was gratefully accommodated.
We hauled our camping gear to the site a quarter of a mile downhill in backpacks and a sled we brought, plus another sled that was provided. We used the not-so-air-tight nor squirrel-free spacious Tent on the Platform with the wood stove that I fed throughout the night in the 9°F windy weather. I recommend bringing individual Sleeping Pads to insulate over the air mattresses and under your own high-pile sleeping bag. Our group had also brought a tent to experience real winter camping and it was nice to have the glamping set up just in case. The stove did smoke at first as they do that, but once it was going it was great. I set my alarm clock for every hour to check it.
The outdoor kitchen and fire pit was used to heat water for our meals, warm drinks, clean up, and to fill water bottles for warmth inside sleeping bags. During cold months and summer nights, bring enough fire starting materials to get things going multiple times in the cold and maybe wet conditions. The toilet situation was sufficient (carry-out) and the river's cascading riffles were heard throughout the night.
It was a magical place to be in nature during winter surrounded by snow and ice! I highly recommend a visit here any time of year in one of the tents provided or at a regular tent site, all along the river.
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S
Scott
December 2025
Tent
Group trip
Just went winter camping here. The stay was great, it was a little hike down and the trail was marked well with small flags and signs. We had a group of 4 and the tent held us no problem, the wood stove was super warm I didn’t even use my sleeping bag, also kept us dry from the freezing rain. Would definitely recommend and would stay here again. Make sure to bring an axe or hatchet to split your firewood for the little stove inside. Would definitely recommend for first time winter campers if you’re new to it.
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J
Joseph
November 2025
24 ft Class C
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.
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A
Anna
November 2025
26 ft travel trailer
With pets
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.
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S
Sandrine
November 2025
20 ft campervan
With pets
Julie is a perfect host. She was welcoming and resourceful. We love her space and it's proximity to Boston
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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!
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O
Oxana
November 2025
With pets
It’s a beautiful place to get away from the city, recommended.
See moreK
Kim
November 2025
With pets
Perfect peaceful spot to relax and shut down. We didn't really need anything but we knew April was there if we did. There are a lot of little things April leaves in the cabin in case you forget anything which is appreciated. It is decorated so cute with little lights inside which I appreciated at night. The spot is gorgeous with the sound and sights of a brook and trees. What more could you ask for? Sitting by the fire watching the moon rise and sipping coffee with the sun rise was so enjoyable. We didn't bring our dogs but will in the future. A great spot for them. You are in nature and have total peace but with the security of knowing April is right there if needed and hiking and stores are close by if you need them. Highly recommend this spot.
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Eric
November 2025
Tent
It’s a very professional campground! I loved being so close to the River and the surrounding nature was beautiful. It was great even in the fall but I’d love to go in the summer and enjoy the water features.
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emma
November 2025
19 ft Class B
With kids
Fantastic pitch next to the cantina on top of the hill. Amazing views, wild turkeys roaming and little fishing pond. Cider apple donuts for sale on site down the track. Cantina has toilets, kitchen (no stove) and water. Wash room with hot showers at the house down the hill. Brilliant place to stay.
See moreHarold Parker State Forest camping guide
Overview
About
Lookin’ to ditch Beantown but don’t have much time? Well, Harold Parker State Forest just twenty miles north covers 3,000 acres of white pine forest to go off adventuring in. Fun activities include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and fishing–motor propelled boats are a no-no however. Not ready to head back to the city yet? Then stay over at the nearby campground just two miles down the road. The sites themselves are wicked spread out and offer a prime-time forest camping experience. And it gets better! Each is equipped with a grill and picnic table for you and your whole crew to enjoy.
Notable campgrounds
- The Lorraine Park Campground offers a classic camping experience with 89 sites suitable for tents and RVs alike.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Book early, as spots fill up quickly, especially during peak summer months.
- Check for cancellations regularly to snag a last-minute reservation.
- Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability.
- Explore nearby camping options if the park is fully booked.
When to go
The best time to visit Harold Parker State Forest is from May to October when the park is fully accessible and activities like swimming and boating can be enjoyed. Winter offers a quiet, snowy retreat for cross-country skiing and ice skating.
Know before you go
- Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for New England's variable conditions.
- Parking fees apply from mid-May to October; have cash on hand for the $5 resident or $20 non-resident fee.
- Accessible facilities are available, including camping sites and restrooms.
- Remember to pack out all trash and respect the no-alcohol policy.
- Wildlife is abundant, so keep a safe distance and store food securely.
Reviews for Harold Parker State Forest Campgrounds
94%
9 ratings · 2 reviews
July 2016
We stayed there last summer & made it our base camp for Salem. If we ever get back to Mass. we'll be there again. A surprisingly "wild" camping experience central to the Boston & The Northeast section of Mass. Get a spot on the pond. We were right across from the bathroom, which has showers & flush toilets. There are no hookups (no electricity). They do take reservations which I would recommend in the summer.
Cynthia K.
9 years on Hipcamp
September 2015
Harold Parker State Campground is the perfect distance from Boston for small one- or two-day escapes. I recently packed my pannier and headed up for a sunday evening stay. The ride from Boston is a pleasant two hour trip up through some small towns and rural roads, and has bike lanes most of the way.
On a Sunday evening in the Fall the park is mostly empty, which means you get the bright and open camp grounds all to yourself! I had a blast exploring the trails through the state park on my cyclecross bike, and watching sunset over Fresh Lake.
This is definitely me default quick getaway from the city!
Myles T.
6 reviews
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