The best camping in Massachusetts

·

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.

96% (3.2K) 3,712 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Massachusetts

Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

1. Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

100%
(566)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Winimusett Brook Farm Retreat

2. Winimusett Brook Farm Retreat

100%
(44)
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Turtle Bend Farm

3. Turtle Bend Farm

95%
(156)
Russell, MA · 5 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 cows and sheep frolicking in their pasture abound! This mid-century horse farm is being transitioned into a perennial plant nursery with a focus on delicious fruits, pollinator flowers and medicinal herbs - with cows, sheep and more!
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
East Beach Haven

6. East Beach Haven

Westport, MA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Private 10,000-square-ft RV trailer seasonal lot available on East Beach in Westport, Massachusetts. Spacious lot with ocean and river views, 35-foot pad with full electric and water hookup. Enjoy ocean and river views, a viewing deck, a fire pit for evenings, and private beach rights steps away. Quiet, spacious, and ready for your camper or RV.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Cozy Wooded Nook

7. Cozy Wooded Nook

95%
(279)
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
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Moose Caboose Country Farm

8. The Moose Caboose Country Farm

96%
(81)
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, 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- 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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Poor-Sleeper Camp

9. 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!!
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Atland Artist Residency

14. Atland Artist Residency

100%
(113)
West Chesterfield, MA · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
We're named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024 and 2023! Over 40 acres of solitude tucked in the hilltowns of the western Massachusetts Berkshires -- boasting warm sunrises over the distant hills, lush forest for hiking and meandering river frontage on Bronson Brook and walking distance to the Westfield River to wade and soak in the cool mountain water or fish for native trout! The cabin and camping sites are located in beautiful trails that were created around the main home -- an architect designed masterpiece boasting a wonderful asian influence yet handcrafted from the very timberstock off the land on which it sits lending a refined rustic twist. 25 Min to Northampton and 10 min to the Berkshires! You can hike or bike to the best swimming holes around and camp within our beautiful forested hills of hemlock, birch, maple, and wildflower meadow. If you're into kayaking/canoeing/tubing/hiking/fishing, then this is the perfect space for you. Come escape and breathe in our cool clean mountain air :)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Goodfield Farm Rustic Camping

15. Goodfield Farm Rustic Camping

100%
(36)
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.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Sandy Pond Campground, Plymouth, Massachusetts

16. Sandy Pond Campground, Plymouth, Massachusetts

Plymouth, MA · 135 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Sandy Pond Campground is located in historic Plymouth, Massachusetts– just three miles from the Cape Cod canal. With over 200 wooded and open sites, a beautiful sandy beach, and all the amenities of a full-service campground, this relaxing nature getaway has something the entire family will enjoy. The crystal clear, spring-fed waters of Sandy Pond feature beautiful beaches for swimming, boating, and fishing fun. Other activities include hiking trails, arcade games, a recreation hall, basketball, and special events. The campground caters to any type of camper offering full hookup RV sites, tent campsites, rental trailers, and glamping cabins. Sandy Pond Campground has everything you need for a memorable vacation in Plymouth, MA.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Quentins Treehouse

17. Quentins Treehouse

97%
(159)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Kelley’s corner

18. Kelley’s corner

97%
(62)
Eastham, MA · 1 site · Tent, RV
A private camping spot under the trees at the end of a cul-de-sac. Quiet spot with easy access to everything Cape Cod has to offer. Sit under the trees and enjoy the sound of the birds or visit First Encounter beach a mile from the house. Provincetown, Chatham and Hyannis all just a 30 minute drive away. Lots of hiking paths and Cape Cod bike path just up the road. Excellent fishing from the beach or get a charter for tuna, striped bass and blue fish. Then come home to a quiet space just for you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Maple Corner Farm

19. Maple Corner Farm

98%
(52)
Granville, MA · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Eighth generation farm in continuous since 1812. 200 acres of open fields, forest and streams. We have many trails on the property as well as a waterfall. There is fishing, kayaking and the Appalachian trail all within 30 minutes. Farm store is open with maple syrup, maple products, beef, pork, eggs and specialty products.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Magpie and Jaebird's Little A-frame

20. Magpie and Jaebird's Little A-frame

97%
(158)
Bellingham, MA · 1 site
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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

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