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Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge

The best camping in Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge, MA

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Stories from the community

Joseph

3 weeks ago

24 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Inn On The Horse Farm

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

Sandrine

November 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Quiet rural organic property

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

Oxana

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Vintage camper, waterfront &firepit

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

Eric

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Boulder Brook

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.

emma

November 2025

19 ft Class B

With kids

Weekend Trip to Harveys Hill

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.

Jessenia

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Quiet rural organic property

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

Marlo

October 2025

1 night at Inn On The Horse Farm

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

Erika

October 2025

3 nights at Inn On The Horse Farm

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

MAURA L

October 2025

21 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Grateful Acres by York Beach!

Brianna and her family are great hosts! They were very responsive and respectful. The spot has everything you need - electric, water, a hammock, solo stove, etc. It was perfect for my weekend meeting up with old friends in Ogunquit. I very much enjoyed my stay and will definitely be back! Thanks!

Nicolas

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at F.a.C Campout

Cheryl is a great host and the property is lovely. Such a cool place to visit. 100% recommend

Debra

October 2025

25 ft travel trailer

1 night at Quiet rural organic property

Nice and quiet. We had a good night's sleep. Julie is nice.

Thalia

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Inn On The Horse Farm

Nice tucked away house with a horse on property. The owner was very accommodating and despite having multiple rooms in the same house we were still able to have our privacy. Dog friendly and self check-in process.

YIFEI

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bear + Bird Homestead

Second time visiting and as always friendly and clean! Had a great camp out in late fall weather

Antonella

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Boulder Brook

A simple campground that offered little conveniences that added up to a great stay. My group arrived right before check in to pick site 4, which has a mini parking lot and is right next to the stream, and close to the outhouse. You can hear the highway, but it’s distant and quiet at night. Beautiful property and pathways; the site did have small tree/plant stumps that were easy to trip on so just watch your step.

Chris

October 2025

21 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Grateful Acres by York Beach!

Beautiful property, great hosts, look forward to staying again.

Ellen

October 2025

28 ft Class C

With kids

1 night at Inn On The Horse Farm

Lovely spot! Easy to find, and the host is readily available by phone. Enjoyed the beautiful little pasture behind the parking spot with white-tailed deer, as well as the running path (Bruce Freeman Rail Trail) nearby for a morning jog through the forest boasting gorgeous fall colors. Plus, took the kids across the street before bedtime to play on the elementary school playground - perfectly accessible, yet felt very private. Would definitely recommend/would stay again.

Andy

October 2025

23 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Grateful Acres by York Beach!

Electricity, water, a level site, and a picnic spot. All we needed for this trip.

Leigh

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bear + Bird Homestead

I had a lovely relaxing evening at this site! I like camping at remote sites but I can get creeped out if there's no one else around for miles. This was the perfect amount of privacy for me. You can see some houses and lights through the trees a bit but you won't see another person if you don't want to. The site is spacious with all the essentials. The owners were great. I live nearby and hope to return soon!

natalie

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Boulder Brook

Boulder Brook was the best campsite we could have stayed at! My group and I arrived just at check in so were able to check out all the sites quickly before choosing our own and all of them would have been perfect! The land is so well maintained and sites are far enough apart where I couldn’t hear any of the other groups at all. The outhouse was maintained perfectly and everything about the campsite was beautiful, clean, and welcoming. We walked around the property using the map shown at the campsite and it was all so beautiful and was such a gem. I will definitely be staying here in the future. Thank you Peter!

Julio

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Camp Hood.

Excellent host, he was very helpful. We used the pontoon all day with my 13-year-old son and his buddies. We were actually pretty successful at fishing with live bait. We got some decent sized bass and a couple of bluegill sunfish, which we ate that night in tacos. The area for the tents is comfortable and the host let us use his bathroom. He also has a big grill and perfect setup for a fire. He was very responsive and had great advice on local activities and fishing. We’ll happily go back.

Top-rated campgrounds

Bakers Island Light Campsite

100%

(115)

13mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 3 sites · Tents · 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 ft 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 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 U.S. government to the Essex National Heritage Commission (Essex Heritage). 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 $50 a night (you will need your own dinghy to get ashore). ALL CAMPERS MUST ARRANGE TRANSPORTATION AFTER BOOKING. DETAILS WILL BE SENT FOLLOWING CONFIRMATION OF BOOKING. 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. 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.

Clover Hill Farm ☘️

98%

(22)

26mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · Tent, RV · South Hampton, NH

A farm in the woods! Peaceful 3.5 acres of fields, woods, trails. Hunting, walking, biking or horse back riding. Right next to a state forest where great blue herons nest. The powwow river where kayakers and paddle boarders coast down to Lake Gardner is right down the road. Close to beach and mountains and only minutes from historic downtown Newburyport and Amebsury, MA. 10 minutes from 495 and 95.

Quiet rural organic property

97%

(45)

29mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · RV · East Kingston, NH

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

F.a.C Campout

95%

(234)

30mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 11 sites · Tents · 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 ⚡

Camp Hood.

98%

(25)

32mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · Tent · Kingston, NH

Camp amongst huge pine trees on dead end road with waterfront on Half Moon pond.. Fire pit, camp wood nearby for sale, picnic table , multiple chairs , gas grill with side burner, electrical cable for you. AND MY DOG ARCHIE WILL BE AROUND. MIXED LABISH BREED. VERY CHILL DOG. NO LEASH. .. My house/batroom available 24/7 ..Shower NOT available.. . I have a floating dock so it wobbles, Kayak, canoe, and an electric trolling two per bass boat along with various floats, and fishing poles/tackle available. No license needed. AND EXCEPT FOR THE HOURS OF SUNSET, join if ya want, you will have acces to my stipped down 20 ft pontoon boat with electric trolling motor. Take it out and park it in the middle of the pond, swim ladder included. 50 minutes to Boston. 35 minutes to Hampton Beach /Portsmouth NH... 90 miles to White mtns

Bear + Bird Homestead

99%

(39)

35mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · Tent · Brentwood, NH

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.

Appleseed Flower Farm at York Beach

94%

(26)

36mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · Tent, RV · York, ME

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. Lastly, for the summer of 2025 we have a longterm camper and his dog located further back on the property behind the barn. The rest of this listing remains unchanged, but we just wanted to make people aware!

Camp in the woods

96%

(111)

37mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Fremont, NH

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

Harveys Hill

100%

(41)

39mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Epping, NH

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.

Grateful Acres by York Beach!

92%

(19)

39mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · Tent, RV · Cape Neddick, ME

Whether you're looking for a home base for a beach or hiking adventure, or a peaceful getaway, Grateful Acres is truly a heaven we want to share with you! Our beautiful spot for your camper or tent is located minutes from Short and Long Sands beaches, Mt. A, and 8 minutes to Ogunquit, you’ll have access to all Maine’s southern seacoast has to offer. Build a campfire. Read a book. Soak in salt of the ocean. Or embark and explore top rated restaurants, beaches, museums, parks, and outdoor adventures!

Patti's Beaver Pond

100%

(11)

40mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · RV · Lincoln, MA

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.

Riverside Camp at Brandmoore

97%

(95)

42mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · Tent, RV · Rollinsford, NH

This is a very historic area with the Salmon Falls River being big enough for gundalows to travel to bring goods upriver in the 19th century. Story has it that cows were brought to New England on this land!Learn more about this land:Set up your tent in a flat, grassy area near the Salmon Falls River. In the barnyard of our dairy farm while being very peaceful and clean. You may hear the cows in the morning!There is a covered 'sawmill building' with a picnic table for you to enjoy.

The best camping in Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge, MA guide

Overview

About

Camping near Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge promises an experience that's both serene and invigorating. This coastal sanctuary, a mere thirty miles north of Boston, is a haven for migratory birds, making it a dream destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. As you set up camp in the nearby areas, the melodic calls of songbirds and the rhythmic sounds of the shore will be your soundtrack. Thacher Island NWR isn't just about its feathery inhabitants. It's a place where the Atlantic Flyway comes alive, offering resting, feeding, and nesting grounds for a diverse range of birds. From the energetic herring and great black-backed gulls to the more elusive loons and cormorants, every visit promises a new discovery. And for those who prefer marine life, seals often grace the offshore habitats, adding to the refuge's vibrant ecosystem. But the allure of a Thacher Island camping adventure doesn't stop with its natural wonders. The island's cultural tapestry is equally captivating. The iconic twin lighthouses stand as silent witnesses to the island's rich history, guiding sailors of yesteryears and mesmerizing visitors today. Whether you're hiking, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the views, the refuge offers a unique blend of nature and history. It's a place where every trail tells a story, every bird song is a melody, and every sunset is a masterpiece. So, campers, if you're seeking a blend of coastal beauty and rich history, Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge awaits.

When to go

The best time to visit Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge is during the spring and fall migrations, when an array of bird species can be observed. Summer offers pleasant weather for hiking and wildlife viewing. Winter visits are less ideal due to harsher weather conditions and limited access.

Know before you go

Check weather conditions before your visit, as the island is subject to sudden changes.
Access to the island is by kayak or small boat, with summer boat services available.
Be prepared for limited facilities; there are no refuge buildings on the island.
Respect wildlife by observing from a distance and following refuge rules.
Visit from sunrise to sunset to experience the full beauty of the refuge.

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