The best camping in Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge, MA
Discover the natural splendor of Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge adventure.
Top-rated campsites near Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge
Bakers Island Light Campsite
1. Bakers Island Light Campsite
100%
(115)
13mi from Thacher Island 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
Quiet rural organic property
2. Quiet rural organic property
97%
(48)
29mi from Thacher Island 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
F.a.C Campout
3. F.a.C Campout
95%
(235)
30mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 2 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
Bear + Bird Homestead
4. Bear + Bird Homestead
99%
(40)
35mi from Thacher Island 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
Appleseed Flower Farm at York Beach
5. Appleseed Flower Farm at York Beach
95%
(28)
36mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · Tent, RV
Surround yourself in the natural beauty of a working flower farm in Maine in this quiet, secluded location that's close to area beaches, lighthouses, and more. Located about an acre behind our family home (which you can see from the spot), the camp site is within steps of our barn, which has both running water and electrical hookups (20amps) for campers to use. An open field next door plays host to numerous deer and turkeys, and the flower fields feature a rotating lineup of beautiful blooms (depending on the time of the season.)
We are located off a busy street where cars drive a little too fast — if you have a dog that needs to be walked daily, we would recommend stopping by the beach or one of the many nearby walking trails instead of venturing down the road.
Max length of vehicles is 30 feet -- we've found that any longer and the turns are too tight.
10 mins to grocery store (Hannaford) and gas stations
12 mins to local beaches (Long Sands and Short Sands)
15 mins to Portsmouth, NH
20 mins to Nubble Lighthouse
25 mins to Ogunquit, ME
35 mins to Kennebunkport, ME
45 mins to Portland, ME
This is a working flower flower farm and on occasion there will need to be someone working in the field near to the campsite, often during the very early hours of the morning (5am during the spring and summer, later in the fall.) That said, we don't use tractors or any heavy machinery and we will always make our best effort to communicate this ahead of time.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Harveys Hill
6. Harveys Hill
100%
(46)
39mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Harvey’s Hill is a private hilltop campsite with 360° sky views, unbeatable stargazing, and access to our rustic Cantina featuring bathrooms, warm running water, and a basic kitchen. Just 10 minutes off the highway in Epping, NH, it’s the perfect stopover or peaceful escape.
Harvey's Hill has been a beloved part of Epping for generations. In the summer, you might see small planes taking off from the hilltop airstrip or locals walking their dogs up to catch the sunset. In the fall, my aunt Erica makes donuts down in the Milk Room, and in the winter, the hill fills with sledders racing down its snowy slope.
Many celebrations have taken place here over the years, including weddings, reunions, and picnics.
The Cantina is a new addition to the top of the hill. It includes three bathrooms, a kitchen, and electricity. While simple and minimalist, these amenities make the site more comfortable, and we hope they enhance your stay.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Patti's Beaver Pond
7. Patti's Beaver Pond
100%
(11)
40mi from Thacher Island 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
Private Cozy Camper Near Beaches
8. Private Cozy Camper Near Beaches
100%
(12)
44mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site
Come enjoy the beautiful town of Wells in a completely renovated 25-foot camper in a private lot just 1.5 miles from Ogunquit Beach and walking distance from a trolly stop. Set on a secluded fenced in lot, relax outside with a brand new deck, fire pit, and plenty of lawn space.
FREE unlimited firewood!
This 200 square foot camper boasts a queen size bed, a reclining sleeper chair, and a fold down dinette for additional or younger guests! This adorable RV has been thoughtfully modernized with all the comforts of home in mind! It has AC, heat, and hot water so any day is a nice day in the camper.
We do allow pets at the camper! The fee is $50 per pet, per booking. If you would like to bring a pet, please add the Pet Fee which is listed as an Extra during the booking process.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Ponderings at White Pond
9. Ponderings at White Pond
98%
(53)
44mi from Thacher Island 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:This winter we are offering up our cottage with an additional winterized tent for studio or additional guests. You need to walk about 100 yards down a gravel path to get to our secluded home. It is heated with two pellet stoves. One in the bedroom wing, the other in the livingroom/kitchen. Skating, ice fishing, and crosscountry skiing right outside your door when the weather is right. Peace and calm when the weather is harsh. The house is fully stocked with cooking. linens, and a bathroom. During the summer, glamping in our greenhouse-tent for peace and tranquility. It is under a canopy of trees with a cool pond breeze prevailing. The bed and linens are first rate for a very comfortable stay. There are shelves, potable water and a desk within. It is heated in the cool temps and fan cooled in the warmer days. There is a canoe and paddleboard available to borrow. The main house is attached by decks, the bathroom is shared with the main house and there is a kitchen for you to use. The 40 acre pond is 65 feet deep. It is a kettle pond which is spring fed with no river inlets to pollute it. Access is a little tricky with 100 yard hike from the parking area down a steep slope. The pond is stocked with bass and trout for great fishing. The birds are amazing. Henry David Thoreau wrote about White Pond in his book, Walden as the "emerald eyes of the world." This is a place that magic happens.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Boulder Brook
10. Boulder Brook
98%
(186)
44mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 4 sites
Secluded in the wilderness, Boulder Brook Hipcamp has private tent sites right next to a babbling brook. The access road is a nice gravel .6 mile long road that is not maintained in the Winter. There is firewood for sale via Venmo right in the parking area, $6 per bundle. There is also a nice outhouse. There are 4 first come, first serve sites with tent platforms and fire pits. There is quick access to the Rockingham Recreational Trail, which is ideal for walking, mountain biking, and exploring. There is also a great swimming hole nearby called Chivers Pond. The campsites are located on the back corner of the Chivers Farm property and seasonal farm goods will be available for campers to purchase coming in 2025.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Inn On The Horse Farm
11. Inn On The Horse Farm
93%
(22)
46mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 3 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
Private site close to attractions
12. Private site close to attractions
99%
(47)
47mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Large camping spot on the edge of a 125-acre farm. Site has an open area with sunny or shaded place to set up camp. Guests are welcome to walk or hike around the property. There are open fields and some rough hiking trails (wear good shoes!) Small stream runs through the property and there are wild turkeys, deer and other wildlife about.
This is a rustic site with picnic table, fire ring and chemical toilet. Pretty and peaceful. Plenty of room to pull in a motorhome, camper or pop up
Pet Policy- dogs must be leased at all times and cannot be left at campsite if you are not there
Convenient to most locations in Southern Maine and NH. Located near the center of town, there are stores and restaurants within a 5-minute drive. Excellent location to be away from tourist areas but close enough to visit -Beaches 20-30 minutes, RT 95-15 mins, Portland 45; Portsmouth-45 mins, Kittery Outlets -30 mins. White Mountains 1 hour 30 mins.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Egwanulti Effervescent
13. Egwanulti Effervescent
92%
(36)
47mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site
Beautiful land on Salmon Falls River. Property has deck for fishing, and launch for kayaks.Learn more about this land:Large land lot on the NH/ME border. Right on the Salmon Falls River. Great kayaking spot. Secluded fire pit for campers only. Fish off our deck, light a fire and pass around smores while telling ghost stories. Then wake up to the fog rolling off the river, next to chickens playing in the garden. Take a trip down the river in your kayaks or canoe and then call it a day.Site is for tents only. Parking is available for free on the private street in front of the house. At this moment, we only accept 1 night reservations. Firepit is provided, firewood must be brought in, or can be purchased from host if needed. Commode is also on site. This is a pack in pack out site.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Wildcat
14. Wildcat
98%
(50)
49mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site
Campsites are situated in the wooded area on our property land that integrates into hundreds of acres of conservation land with hiking trails that are also great for XC skiing, kettle ponds, and wetlands. The property is surrounded on 3 sides by conservation land with trails, 45 minutes from Boston and 10 minute drive to groceries, stores and restaurants.
The house is right off a country road with our property and conservation land both across the street and behind our house. The area is in the heart of New England and is beautiful at all times of year. Minutes from Rte 495 and 2, we are along a popular bike route, 10 minutes from Carlson Orchards and the bistro/cafe Harvard General Store.
We have goats, chickens, and lambs that guests can say hi to.
Please note: Guests may camp only on the terrace unless otherwise approved. There is a woodpile next to the parking - we regret thqt we cannot share this with guests but it’s our winter heat source!
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground
15. Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground
94%
(89)
49mi from Thacher Island 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
Toilets
Full hookups
Halibut State Park
16. Halibut State Park
4.2mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site
Perched along the rugged coastline of Cape Ann, Halibut State Park offers a truly unique coastal camping experience shaped by granite, sea air, and sweeping ocean views. Once an active quarry, the park has transformed into a striking natural landscape where rocky shores, tide pools, and open skies create an unforgettable setting for outdoor exploration.
Spend your days wandering scenic coastal trails, exploring the dramatic granite quarry filled with deep blue water, or watching waves crash against the rocky shoreline. The park’s distinctive terrain—formed by years of quarrying and coastal weather—creates a raw, windswept beauty that feels both peaceful and powerful.
Nature lovers will appreciate the diverse plant life and coastal ecosystems, from low-growing shrubs to vibrant seasonal wildflowers. Keep an eye out for seabirds and marine life in the tide pools, or simply settle in and enjoy the calming rhythm of the ocean.
As the sun sets, the landscape takes on a whole new character. Golden light reflects off the granite, and the sound of the ocean becomes your evening soundtrack. Clear nights offer excellent stargazing, with the open coastal horizon providing unobstructed views of the sky.
While the park itself does not offer traditional campground facilities, nearby campsites and accommodations provide a variety of options—from rustic tent sites to more comfortable setups—making it easy to enjoy the beauty of Halibut Point while having a place to rest nearby.
Whether you’re here for coastal hikes, photography, birdwatching, or simply a quiet escape by the sea, Halibut State Park delivers a one-of-a-kind New England outdoor experience.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Beaver Creek Farm
17. Beaver Creek Farm
100%
(1)
20mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
✨ Get away from it all and sleep under the stars. At Beaver Creek Farm, your campsite sits right beside the creek, giving you a true connection with nature. Deer and bunnies roam freely through the area, and you’ll hear a chorus of birds throughout the day.
If you’re into the beach or just want a stroll and some shopping in downtown Newburyport, we’re only a 7-minute drive to Salisbury Beach Boardwalk, Salisbury Beach State Reservation, and historic Newburyport. Hampton Beach is just 15 minutes away!
🐾 We have two pet-friendly campsites available by the creek that is private and away from the rest of the world. Currently, we’re a dry-dock campsite with access to water. There’s a 110-volt outlet for phone/lantern charging. We’re also working on building a bathhouse and outdoor kitchen for future use.
🌿 Guests have access to the camping area behind the barn, the riverfront, and a glassed-in garden room. A cozy patio with a gas fireplace will be added soon. Feel free to bring your kayak and launch right from your campsite (except during drought conditions).
🐶 Please note: there is a large bloodhound on the property — she’s super friendly!
⚡ No full hookups are available. A 110-volt outlet is provided, for charging purposes but not to run a camper.
🚐 No campers longer than 22 ft.
🌱 We are 420-friendly, with five recreational dispensaries close by.
Pets
Potable water
The Suburban Nook
18. The Suburban Nook
100%
(3)
23mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site
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.
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.
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 & 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 compost toilet, but feel free to bring your own setup
Respect the neighbors and the space
No fires left unattended
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Flaggs RVResort
19. Flaggs RVResort
36mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · Tent, RV
Flaggs RV Resort is a cozy, coastal getaway located just 500 feet from the sand of Long Sands Beach in York, Maine, offering easy access to the ocean and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.
At Flaggs, you’ll find full‑hookup RV and tent sites, including 50‑amp service, making it a great choice whether you’re traveling with a camper or pitching a tent. Communal amenities include a large pavilion, a fire‑pit area for cozy evenings, and Wi‑Fi for those who want to stay connected.
Beyond the resort, you’re just a short stroll from oceanfront beaches and within easy reach of local restaurants, outlet shopping, and family-friendly attractions — perfect for day trips or beach days.
Flaggs RV Resort is an inviting base for anyone craving a laid-back beachside escape with the comforts of modern hookups and the charm of coastal Maine.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Little River Retreat
20. Little River Retreat
40mi from Thacher Island National Wildlife Refuge · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Tucked along the Little River in Lee, this peaceful, wooded property offers a back-to-basics camping experience that’s close to everything yet feels surprisingly remote.
There are six primitive tent sites spaced around the land, with trees and natural vegetation creating a sense of privacy. You’ll be close enough to the river to hear it flowing, and all campers have access to fresh water from a shared hose for drinking, washing up, and basic camp needs.
For RV campers, there is one simple RV spot that accommodates smaller rigs. The RV site includes access to electricity via an extension cord and fresh water via hose, so you can enjoy a few comforts while still staying connected to nature.
Despite the quiet, secluded feel, the property is conveniently located near Route 101, Route 4, and the Lee Traffic Circle, making it easy to reach nearby towns, supplies, and local attractions. It’s an ideal spot for campers who want a convenient basecamp that still feels like a peaceful escape by the river.
To make your stay even more relaxing, optional arrival snacks—such as homemade cookies, granola bars, or similar treats—can be provided for an additional cost. A simple breakfast is also available by arrangement, so you can wake up, enjoy the sounds of the river, and start your day without having to cook right away.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
J.
2 days ago
2 nights at Inn On The Horse Farm
This is a quiet and serene spot. In no way does it resemble a modern corporate hotel. Rooms are in an old Victorian and while the age of the building shows in some ways, the friendliness of the hosts made my stay here a good one. Will stay again.
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T
Trudy
5 days ago
23 ft campervan
With pets
Deer in the field, lots of trees, lovely hosts - but bring bug spray!
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D
David
5 days ago
Tent
A true NH experience. Beautiful rolling hill farm and camp area. Had water and electricity to boot. Great phone reception as well. Clean restrooms. Friendly family atmosphere. Exceeded my expectations.
I’ll be back for sure. Thank you! DL
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J
Jill
1 week ago
With pets
This is our second year of staying at the camper and it’s the best! Everything we could need in the perfect location, clean, cozy & Beau was a great host. We’ve brought our pup both years & she loves it, we can’t wait to go back 😀🐶
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W
Will
2 weeks ago
Tent
Very nice place, good place to camp not far outside of Boston
See moreA
Abby
2 weeks ago
1 night at Private Cozy Camper Near Beaches
Such a beautiful and quiet little spot to get away! Easy access to both Ogunquit and Wells. Everything was so clean and clear instructions on how to use everything the camper had to offer. Would recommend!!
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Julianna
2 weeks ago
Tent
What a lovely spot! Meredith and Joe were great hosts and provided so much helpful info upfront. I barely had any questions, but when I did, they had quick and kind answers. The river was so beautiful and tent camping was comfortable on the flat ground. It was also great being that close to Portsmouth!
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Spencer
2 weeks ago
Tent
I loved rent camping on Nicole’s farm! The site is right by her flower garden, I got to see her working with her kids. She was incredibly kind. The location is close to outlet stores and a great ice cream stand. Can’t say enough good things about my stay there. Thanks Nicole!
See moreM
Monica
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
I loved camping at this site! The area was so clean and mindfully stocked with necessities. Abigale and Ericka were such amazing hosts as well and so responsive. 100/10 this spot is amazing!
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K
Kailee
2 weeks ago
Tent
The spot was great for a quick camping trip! The river and kayaks were super fun and the spot was exactly as described. Will definitely come back again sometime!
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J
Joshua
3 weeks ago
Tent
I had a relaxing stay at the campground. it was peaceful and clean. the surrounding areas are nice with plenty of stuff to explore. there are nice trails nearby to walk or bike.
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Joe
3 weeks ago
1 night at Boulder Brook
Once again the best time at the best Hipcamp! Hosts are great, very friendly and happy to answer any questions!
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R
Rod
3 weeks ago
Tent
I can’t imagine any Hipcamp property being better than what Peter has created. The area… the privacy… the stream…. My stay was needed and perfect. My recommendation could not be higher than this. Stayed at site #1 in a lay flat hammock in the edge of the stream. It was magical…. Thank you Peter.
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Melissa
3 weeks ago
Tent
Eric was a great communicator and had a nice little set up for a tent out behind the house. While my stay was super short notice and didn't have time to use firepit, he had a great set up for having a fire, table/ chairs, and amenities. Motion lights come on down path which was very helpful since I arrived after dark. It's a great place to camp if visiting Salem and want to stay close by!
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Christopher
May 2026
Tent
Straight forward camp site in the corner of Eric's yard, exactly as pictured in the photos on the website. I was able to park and start setting up my tent right away without any issues. Eric was communicative and checked in with me via text message to see if I needed anything from him. Neighborhood was quiet, there is some light traffic driving by on the road so if you are sensitive to noise you might want headphones or earplugs but it didn't bother me. Overall a great alternative to spending money on a hotel room!
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Daniel
May 2026
Tent
We loved camping at Peter’s property.
Multiple sites available (first come first serve) next to a flowing creek. A lot to explore in surrounding areas.
Thank you!
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L
Linda
May 2026
30 ft truck camper
With pets
My husband, our small dog, our indoor cat and I camped on Julie's property in our truck camper for three nights. We were looking to relax after a very busy time, and happily we were able to do so here. Throughout our stay, Julie maintained a nice balance between being present and available to us and totally allowing us our privacy, which we really appreciated. We used the electricity she provided, which was very helpful, and we didn't need water, which was also offered to guests. Although Julie sells her own organic products, she did not try to sell us anything while we were there. We were encouraged to make full use of her property, which has a very nice back yard with a little table and chairs and two very comfy looking cushioned chairs that I wished we'd had the weather to sit out on. It was windy and rainy for most of this weekend, and we were visiting friends and family elsewhere some of the time. We did spend a very nice first afternoon there having a leisurely lunch at the backyard table. We recommend Julie's property for your stay, and we will most likely return for another weekend in the near future.
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J
JT
May 2026
Tent
First timer here and definitely look forward to going back. Stunning property and cozy campsite, a great place.
See moreD
Daniel
May 2026
16 ft car
Back 40 was the camping ground we stayed at. We enjoyed the area, with its own picnic table, lights, and fire pit. It is private and well kept.
There is a communal bathroom area and showers which makes camping so much easier. Thank you!
See moreR
Rain
May 2026
Tent
With pets
The canpsite was perfect! Site 1 was peaceful and serene with the river next to us. Firewood was easily accessible and kept dry nearby. I highly recommend this site to anyone looking for somewhere to set up camp while exploring New Hampshire!
See moreThacher Island National Wildlife Refuge camping 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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