The best camping in Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, MA

·

Discover the natural splendor of Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. 

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge adventure.

Top-rated campsites near Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge

Ponderings at White Pond

1. Ponderings at White Pond

97%
(68)
1.9mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 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: You can enjoy glamping in our greenhouse-tent for peace and tranquility. There is a cabin built inside the tent.  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 table within. It is heated in the cool temps and fan cooled in the warmer days.  There is a kayak and paddleboard available to borrow. There is a dryflush toilet, hand sink and outdoor heated shower in the back of the tent. Cooking is on charcoal grill and toaster oven. There are dishes, cups and utensils for your use. as well as coffee press and hot water boiler. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Patti's Beaver Pond

2. Patti's Beaver Pond

100%
(12)
2.4mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 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
Inn On The Horse Farm

3. Inn On The Horse Farm

91%
(41)
4.3mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 5 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
Peaceful Convenience

4. Peaceful Convenience

100%
(53)
11mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Wildcat

5. Wildcat

97%
(52)
11mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site
Campsite is 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. We do not sell or provide wood, electricity , shower. There is a woodpile but we cannot share this with guests but it’s our winter heat source, however we know a place you can collect cut from for a small fire. Our bathroom is available for guest use until about 9:30 at night, after that there is a gas station a mile down the road. No parties, and quiet time is from 930 on.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground

6. Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground

95%
(99)
13mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 48 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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Turtle Path Camping Site

7. Turtle Path Camping Site

96%
(40)
18mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 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
The Suburban Nook

8. The Suburban Nook

100%
(19)
19mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites
Welcome to The Suburban Nook - a quiet, wooded campsite tucked away on a residential property in Middleton, MA. You're getting a genuine New England woodland setting with mature pines, natural stone walls, and a real campfire, in a suburban neighborhood. Neighbors exist, occasional background noise is part of suburban life, and the house is off limits — but the campsite itself is your own private space. See the property and local areas on my YouTube channel - @wanderingnewengland. The site comfortably accommodates up to 4 guests and 2 vehicles. A lighted path leads from the parking area to the campsite, where you'll find a stone fireplace, campfire chairs, a table, complimentary firewood, and a couple of bottled waters to get you started. A full size cooler is available for your use. Fire suppression water is provided on site — just ask if you need more. A designated waste disposal barrel is provided on site. Please be sure to properly secure your waste before dropping it in the barrel. Dogs are welcome on leash. Well-trained dogs with reliable voice commands may be considered off leash. Dogs may not be left unattended at the site. I do have a long line for your dog which can be utilized at the campsite. The names of any guests staying at the property will need to be disclosed up front. This is an LGBTQ+ welcoming space. All guests are welcome here genuinely, not just by policy. Nearby: Ipswich River Watershed Trail (5 min walk) — miles of dog-friendly nature trails. Middleton Pond — 3.5 mile scenic loop, very dog friendly (5-10 min drive). Rail Trail — easy walking and biking. Richardson's Farm and Ice Cream — a local institution, homemade ice cream, farm animals, mini golf. House rules: Quiet hours 10 PM–8 AM No loud music at any time Maximum 4 guests, 2 vehicles Dogs welcome, leashed — no unattended dogs House and all house amenities are strictly off limits A 5-Gallon bucket, liners and toilet seat with dried leaves is available as a dry toilet, but feel free to bring your own setup Respect the neighbors and the space No fires left unattended Finding the property - The driveway is either right after or right before the Welcome to Middleton sign, depending on which way you are coming from. It's the closest driveway to the sign.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Secluded spot in nature

9. Secluded spot in nature

93%
(28)
28mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Bakers Island Light Campsite

10. Bakers Island Light Campsite

100%
(73)
30mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 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
Hickory Heights Campsite

11. Hickory Heights Campsite

100%
(12)
33mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · Tent, RV
Nestled just off a private drive next to a trail and fields this lovely off-grid spot gives you peace, solitude, with no other campers around! 1mi to Tucker Brook Falls and 3mi to Purgatory Falls, this is a great spot for visiting all of southern NH. Hosts live further up the hill and can provide water if needed, but no water or electric run to site. Ideal for tents, van campers or smaller trailers. Site is pull through and can accommodate up to 15’-20’ trailers. Firewood and other farm stand goods available on site.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
SnugLife Camping

12. SnugLife Camping

92%
(183)
34mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 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...
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Quiet rural organic property

13. Quiet rural organic property

96%
(54)
37mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 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
The Moose Caboose Country Farm

14. The Moose Caboose Country Farm

97%
(102)
39mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
🌻 Roam over twelve acres of beautiful fields and rolling hills with New England stonewalls at The Moose Caboose Country Farm! The land boasts seasonal organic fruits for the plucking—including raspberries, peaches, pears, and apples! 🪵 Forage in the woods for free firewood for a campfire in a private peaceful country setting with excellent adventures and conveniences nearby including local farms, grocery stores, breweries with live music, hiking trails, and more! See a list of great places to visit below. ⛺️ All sites are first come first serve and may have a fire pit and/or table. Vivid nature and bright starry skies are unparalleled at The Moose Caboose Country Farm! **ARRIVAL INSTRUCTIONS** 🧭 The GPS will bring you to my mailbox—drive past it- white wooden arbor structure marks the entrance—drive onto the grass and into the field. 🦋 You are welcome to explore the property the propertyis surrounded by stonewalls; you can move available tables, chairs, and fire pits around as you like. No check in or check out needed—come and go as you please! 🏕️ Please be conscientious that the land is hilly, that camper trailers or RVs will likely need blocking, and tent campers prepare for a bit of a slope on some site locations. **PLACES TO VISIT NEARBY** PHILLIPSTON: 5-15 mins away ⛱️ Queen Lake Beach: 5 minute drive for swimming 🍎 Red Apple Farm : amazing country store, brick oven pizza, burgers and much more PETERSHAM: 15-20 mins away 👣 Brooks Woodland Preserve Hiking Trails: amazing trail hikes 🫐 Petersham Country Store: breakfast, sandwiches for lunch, plus anything you need GARDNER: 10-15 mins away 🍺 Gardner Ale House Restaurant 🛒 Hannaford Grocery Store 🥪 Jersey Mike's Sub Shop 🍔 99 Restaurant 💫 Walmart ATHOL: 10-15 mins away 🛒 Market Basket ☕️ Starbucks ☕️ Dunkin Donuts ERVING: ~20 mins away 🌳 Erving State Forest 💦 Laurel Lake: highly recommend—extremely beautiful!! HUBBARDSTON: ~15 mins away ⛱️ Comet Pond Sandy Beach WESTMINSTER: ~20 mins away 🍺 Wachusett Brewery: amazing beer, food & live music
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Bear + Bird Homestead

15. Bear + Bird Homestead

99%
(47)
40mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site
Welcome to our home! We're glad to have you. Private, Exeter River camping with floating dock Primitive bucket toilet in privacy tent Hot/Cold Outdoor shower Well behaved dogs/leashed dogs are welcome 2 Min to Lindy's Country Store, 6 Min to Market Basket (and shopping plaza)/Epping Restaurants 15 minutes to downtown Exeter 20 minutes from Pawtuckaway State Park Over 300 acres of town forest hiking trails directly across the street.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Wapack Trail Cabin

16. Wapack Trail Cabin

100%
(19)
40mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site
A paradise for hikers, historians, and nature lovers! Twenty acres connect to thousands of acres of state-protected land. The Wapack Trail runs along one side of the property, and Casalis Forest borders the other. Across the road are Miller State Park and Cunningham Lake. Hike for miles on trails that have been used since before the founding of the USA—thousands of acres and miles of trails await. The cabin is located on the historic "Old Mountain Road" (now a Class 6 trail), which was the main road to Peterborough during the late 1700s and early 1800s. The property is surrounded by cellar holes, making it a dream for hikers, hunters, and metal detector enthusiasts. Animal-friendly! In the warmer months, there is a small farm with chickens and pigs. Amenities: • Woodstove • Private fire pit King-size bed Sheets Outhouse Drinkable water
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Miracle Organic Farm

17. Miracle Organic Farm

95%
(19)
41mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · Tent, RV
I have about 3 acres with lots of gardens and surrounded by forest. There is a huge organic garden and greenhouse. We get lots of wildlife here. I'm about 20 minutes from Mount Wachusett and 5 minutes from the Quabbin. Lots of hiking all around, including from my farm (a nice 3 mile walk through a wildlife preserve). Worcester is about a 30 minute drive. Lot's of lakes all around with good fishing. The town of Barre has some excellent restaurants, a grocery store, hardware store, etc. This is an organic farm so you must use biodegradable products in you use my dump station. No bleach11 We close for the winter season from November 1 through the end of March.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Camp in the woods

18. Camp in the woods

96%
(111)
42mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Grandfather once lived on the property of a popular local restaurant owner original well and foundation still on site right on conservation trails with plenty of hiking biking and wildlifeLearn more about this land:3 acres private with hundreds of acres of hiking or biking abutting conservation land and 20 minutes from Hampton beach located 5 min from rt 101 and 125 new England dragway is 10 minutes away entrance can be muddy no low car access you need to walk in 500' or have AWD small building on property for fall hunting
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Winimisset Brook Farm Retreat

19. Winimisset Brook Farm Retreat

99%
(80)
42mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 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
F.a.C Campout

20. F.a.C Campout

96%
(250)
42mi from Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge · 10 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 ⚡
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge camping guide

Overview

About

A Great Meadows camping trip is your gateway to a serene escape into nature's embrace. Located within the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, this destination offers campers a diverse landscape teeming with activities and sights. As part of the Eastern Massachusetts National Wildlife Refuge Complex, Great Meadows stands out with its unique blend of freshwater wetlands and river landscapes. Dive into the heart of the refuge, which is split into the Sudbury and Concord units. Each unit presents its own set of wonders, ensuring that every visit feels fresh and invigorating. Whether you're tracing the trails on a hiking adventure, gliding through the snow on snowshoes, or casting a line into the Sudbury and Concord Rivers, there's no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Boating enthusiasts will find the rivers a tranquil backdrop for a day of exploration, while those keen on observing wildlife can revel in the rich biodiversity that thrives in the wetlands. Comprising about 85% of the refuge, these wetlands are a testament to the importance of preserving natural habitats. Beyond the allure of its landscapes, Great Meadows also serves as a gentle reminder of the significance of national wildlife refuges. They stand as sanctuaries, not just for the flora and fauna, but for us humans too. It's a place where the hustle of daily life fades, replaced by the rhythmic sounds of nature. So, for those yearning for a genuine connection with the environment, camping near Great Meadows is the answer.

When to go

The best time to visit Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is during the spring and fall migrations, when an array of bird species can be observed. Summer offers lush greenery and active wildlife, while winter provides unique opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Avoid periods of heavy rainfall to ensure the trails are accessible.

Know before you go

  • Check the refuge's official website for the latest updates on trail closures and safety advisories.
  • Remember, pets are not allowed, ensuring the protection of the refuge's wildlife.
  • Accessibility is a priority; contact the refuge for specific needs and accommodations.
  • Bring your binoculars and cameras, but leave no trace to preserve the refuge's pristine condition.
  • Be aware of the entrance fee for the Concord unit and plan your visit accordingly.

Reviews for Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge Campgrounds

Be the first to review
Share your experience here to help other campers.
Calendar icon
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
Van icon
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Star icon
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.