Camping in Boston Harbor Islands

100% (6 reviews)

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

Top public campgrounds in the park

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Boston Harbor Islands

100%

(6)

19 sites · In Boston Harbor Islands

You’ve got to add the Boston Harbor Islands to your camping belt

100% (6 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Boston Harbor Islands adventure.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Boston Harbor Islands

Top-rated campgrounds near Boston Harbor Islands

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(159)

Souhegan Shores

2 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Merrimack, NH

Camp by the river bank of the Souhegan River under shade of oak, hickory, blue birch, hemlock and white pine. Let the song of the rapids sing you to sleep. Maybe the resident owls will join the serenade. This slice of heaven is only 5 minutes from the Everett Turnpike and within an hour from Boston. Weather concerns? The best forecast we've found for Merrimack is https://www.wmur.com/weather. Want to see what the river is doing? Check out https://water.noaa.gov/gauges/SOHN3. 500 CFS is a sporty run with canoe or kayak. SPECIAL NOTE: June 16th Update River has dropped to 300 CFS which means it's still a bit pushy but is at a nice level for boating. Roads are passable. We just had campsites and surrounding trails sprayed for mosquitos so we hope for a sharp improvement on those pests. Still bring your repellent and stop at WalMart or shop Amazon for a Thermocell. Keeping the campfire burning helps as well. More description... Site-1 is located under the trees adjacent to our 3 acre meadow and Christmas Tree farm. Camp near the bank of the Souhegan River in the shade while listening to the river tumble over the ledges upstream. In season, enjoy the chest deep swimming hole 100 feet from your campsite. Two horses graze on the other side of the privacy fence. If you don't like friendly dogs try site 2 where we have a better chance of keeping our dog Wilson from dropping in to visit. He loves people too much not to want to greet folks on Site 1. Site-2 is at the farthest most downstream end of the property and from mid-May to mid-October it is totally screened by foliage. From your site you only see trees and the river. If you don't like other dogs, this is the site you want. Still no guarantee Wilson won't visit, but it's easier to keep Wilson away from this corner of the property. The other side of the river is town conservation land so the only people you're likely to see will be passing by in kayaks or on paddleboards. In dry season, both sites are a great place to start a float trip and you'll likely have the next 1.5 miles all to yourself since rapids up stream become impassable wet rocks in July and August. You are only two traffic lights away from the Merrimack Premium Outlet Mall if you need something to do during inclement weather.

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Cozy Wooded Nook

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · 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

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Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground

100 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · 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.

Booked 1 time

The Quarry

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Rockport, MA

Property abuts Greenbelt. Magical sunrises and sunsets. Incredible stargazing. Explore Dogtown, Halibut Point State park and Rockport. Downtown Gloucester very accessible by bus or car. Property was originally a mined granite quarry called Sherbourne Motions. Thé granite from this quarry built Salem Jail and Bunker Hill. Very tranquil and peaceful setting year round

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8 Acres Homestead

2 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · 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

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Peaceful Convenience

2 sites · Lodging3 acres · 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.

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Birch And Pine

3 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Somerset, MA

Welcome to your secluded retreat nestled at the end of a long, 400-foot paved driveway, offering unparalleled privacy and tranquility. With ample space to accommodate any size RV, you'll find all the comforts of home amid the serene surroundings. We have three sites. Site 2 has electric and water hookup available and is crushed level stone approximately 100 x 100 feet for easy access off driveway. Fire pit and fire wood provided. Site 1 is not as private but can accommodate a large rig with portable fire pit and wood provided. 15 amp available for $10 more a night. Just added a third plus sights for the adventure types! You can drive a short trail with your off road rig or truck to a very private space in our woods. Or park on our large circle rock driveway .We could take your gear with our ATV and trailer to your pick of a site if tenting is preferred! We can accommodate as many tent sites as needed with a walk into our 15 acres and you pick your own sites. Very private !! All sites have a portable fire pit with a lid for safety! We are situated just 7 miles from Narragansett Bay and popular attractions like Battleship Cove, with beaches just a short drive away, you're perfectly positioned to explore the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, Cape Cod is within an hour's drive, while the historic charm of Bristol, RI, awaits just 30 minutes away. Indulge in the region's culinary delights with plenty of restaurants offering fresh seafood and local fare. Dogs are welcome on leashes, and a delightful 20-minute hike through the woods right from your camper awaits, providing the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and reconnect with nature. At the end of the day, gather around the fire pit, with wood provided, to share stories and toast marshmallows under the starry sky. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, your idyllic getaway awaits in this serene oasis.

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Vintage camper, wifi & firepit

3 sites · Lodging1 acre · 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.

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Rinconcito Wildcat

1 site · Tent2 acres · Littleton, MA

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. Wood can be gathered from the acres of woods where you are camping. We also sell lumber scraps, usually pine, by the bag. We ask that guests don’t take our cordwood that we heat our house with! In addition to our campsite, we have goats, chickens, and lambs that guests can say hi to. Additionally I make functional pottery and herbal salves for purchase. Ceramics can be viewed at instagram @barearmspottery

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F.a.C Campout

5 sites · Tents30 acres · Exeter, NH

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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Bakers Island Light Campsite

3 sites · Tents10 acres · Salem, MA

Bakers Island Light Station is located on Bakers Island in Salem Sound, a 60-acre island with a large summer colony. The lighthouse stands at 59 feet tall and continues to guide ships in and out of Salem Harbor with an alternating 20-second white-red light. The 10-acre light station, which includes six historic structures such as two keepers houses, an oil house, and a lantern room (now operating as a gift shop), is located in the northwest quadrant of the island and was formally owned and operated by the US Coast Guard. The rest of the island is in private ownership including the Bakers Island Wharf. The deed to historic Bakers Island Light Station was transferred on August 27, 2014, from the United States government to the Essex National Heritage Commission (Essex Heritage). Learn more about this land: Rated #1 Hipcamp site in Massachusetts by Outdoor Magazine in 2020! Enjoy the sights and sounds of off-the-grid coastal living at the Bakers Island Light Station Campsite. Set up your tent on a raised platform and take in the beauty of Salem Sound. Meet the summer lighthouse keepers, stroll through island trails, and unwind...just three miles off the coast of Salem! Getting to camp: PLEASE READ - the only way to get to Bakers Island Light Campsite is by boat. You have three options: 1) Use your own kayaks and paddle out to our beach (this is recommended for advanced kayakers only). 2) Take our landing craft, Naumkeag, out to the island for $70 per person. (Boat departs from Blaney Street dock on Friday at noon and picks you up from the Island on Sunday at noon). FREE overnight parking is available there. 3) Take your own boat, and rent a mooring for $59 a night (you will need your own dinghy to get ashore). Essex Heritage is the non-profit organization that operates and maintains the 10-acre light station at Bakers Island, with the mission of public access and preservation. IMPORTANT: The $60 per night fee covers 4 people per site. The absolute capacity for each site is 4 people, and you must provide us the name of each guest prior to arrival. TRANSPORTATION: Bakers Island Light Station is a remote island located in Salem Sound. There are a few ways to get there, including taking the Essex Heritage landing craft (additional fee per person) from Salem, renting a mooring at the light station for your own boat, or kayaking. ALL CAMPERS MUST ARRANGE TRANSPORTATION AFTER BOOKING. DETAILS WILL BE SENT FOLLOWING CONFIRMATION OF BOOKING.

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Waterfront cabin 10minutes Cape Cod

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Wareham, MA

250sq ft Cabin just three steps to a beautiful 42 acre spring-fed pond, your very own private sandy beach cove, a dock and use of canoe, kayaks and paddle boat and a swim platform. Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing and snorkeling. A fire pit for s’mores at night. The cabin is a studio style 1 bedroom with a kitchen area with a small table for 2. It has a mini fridge And freezer. A bathroom with a shower, unheated water, a portable camping toilet and a hand washing station.. There is one electric outlet for your use. A large grill under a gazebo, propane available for a fee. A hammock for reading a book or taking a nap. This cabin is very close to neighbors in a quiet secluded neighborhood. Although the main house sits high above the Cabin we respect your privacy and you will have the grounds all to yourself during your stay. Main house Driveway Parking- about 75 feet away from cabin. Water Wiz water park and Onset beach is only a 5 minute drive away. And only about 10 minute drive to Bourne bridge if you’d like to explore Cape Cod and its many beautiful beaches. Strict 2 person max policy.

The best camping near Boston Harbor Islands guide

Overview

About

Ready to visit a historic lighthouse or fort? How about tidepooling and swimming? Maybe you'd rather go hiking, even though you have to be back in the city by the end of the day?

All that's possible at this national recreation area. If you prefer a day trip, take a ferry tour. Even if you can't get to all 34 islands, you'll see the Boston skyline from a new viewpoint.

If hiking's your thing, Peddocks Island, Spectacle Island and Worlds End have well-maintained trails. Climb to the top of the North Drumlin, on Spectacle Island, for a 360 view of the whole harbor.

Do you like boating? Well, you're in a harbor, so good choice! Two islands have moorings, or you can drop anchor off the other islands. Beaches on Lovells Island and Spectacle Island save you a drive to the Cape.

Lovells Island, Grape Island, Peddocks Island and Bumpkin Island have rustic campsites. (Within view of the city! Fun!) Or rent a yurt on Peddocks for a touch more comfort.

Notable campgrounds

Peddocks Island Tent Sites: Immerse yourself in nature by camping at one of the rustic tent sites.
Peddocks Island Yurts: Enjoy a comfortable stay in a yurt, blending outdoor adventure with home comforts.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot, as the islands are a popular destination during peak season.
Check for cancellations regularly, as plans change and spots may open up unexpectedly.
Consider midweek camping for better availability and a quieter experience.
Explore nearby camping options if the island campgrounds are fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Boston Harbor Islands is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is warm and the ferries run regularly. Avoid winter when services are limited, and the islands are less accessible due to harsher weather conditions.

Know before you go

There is no parking on the islands; plan to use private parking at ferry locations.
Accessibility is a priority, with trails and beach wheelchairs available on Spectacle Island.
Remember to carry out all trash, as the islands operate on a carry in, carry out policy.
Service dogs are welcome, but other pets are not permitted on the islands.
Check the official website for the latest information on ferry schedules and camping reservations.

100%

6 ratings · 1 review

July 2016

Boston Harbor Islands

Kayaked to Lovells island from Christian A Herter Park above Harvard on the Charles River over July 4th weekend, 2016. Do your homework on the weather before you leave (tides/winds/etc). The camping on Lovells island is top notch. Reserve your spot months in advanced. If you do not have a large group, its easy to improvise and find a good spot. Make sure you account for a good breeze. Great view of the city skyline, Boston bay, and in my case panoramic view of fireworks up and down the coast. Bring smores for a solid beach campfire. A must for good vibes.

Joshua M.

9 years on Hipcamp