The best camping in Harold Parker State Forest, MA
94% (9)
Discover the natural allure of Harold Parker State Forest's trails and tranquil ponds.
94% (9)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Harold Parker State Forest adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Harold Parker State Forest
Harold Parker Campground
1. Harold Parker Campground
94%
(9)
Come hang your hammock in groves of hardwood, hemlock, and white pine forest at the Harold Park State Forest Campground
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Top-rated campsites near Harold Parker State Forest
Bakers Island Light Campsite
1. Bakers Island Light Campsite
100%
(115)
16mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 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
Patti's Beaver Pond
2. Patti's Beaver Pond
100%
(11)
18mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 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
Quiet rural organic property
3. Quiet rural organic property
97%
(48)
20mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 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
private pond pontoon boat inc
4. private pond pontoon boat inc
98%
(25)
21mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 1 site
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
Campfires
Toilets
Showers
Ponderings at White Pond
5. Ponderings at White Pond
98%
(53)
21mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 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.
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Inn On The Horse Farm
6. Inn On The Horse Farm
92%
(19)
24mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 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.
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Wildcat
7. Wildcat
98%
(50)
24mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 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!
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Potable water
Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground
8. Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground
94%
(89)
24mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 99 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.
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Toilets
Full hookups
Bear + Bird Homestead
9. Bear + Bird Homestead
99%
(39)
24mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 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.
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Peaceful Convenience
10. Peaceful Convenience
100%
(53)
28mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 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.
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Boulder Brook
11. Boulder Brook
98%
(183)
30mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 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.
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Harveys Hill
12. Harveys Hill
100%
(44)
30mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 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.
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SnugLife Camping
13. SnugLife Camping
93%
(158)
37mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 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...
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Turtle Path Camping Site
14. Turtle Path Camping Site
96%
(40)
38mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 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
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Pine Brook Retreat
15. Pine Brook Retreat
100%
(14)
38mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 1 site
I’ve lived on this property for over 40 years of my life, exploring and camping many times in these woods. I decided to build an A-frame cabin perched on the hill that overlooks the brook a few years back and it has quickly become my happy place.
This site is a great space to be in the woods, but not too far from things. You can explore the 15+ acres of woods, take a dip in the water, forage mushrooms or just sit under the pines.
The cabin is just a few minute walk past the tree line and very private. We are thrilled to share this beautiful peaceful space with you. .
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Sunset Hill Orchard
16. Sunset Hill Orchard
100%
(18)
39mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 1 site
Sunset Hill Orchard was operated as a family-managed fully operating Apple Orchard from the 1940s until 2000. The Orchard still has hundreds of apple trees and in the transition to the next generation, hosted events for many years. We have a beautifully manicured clearing with a fire pit and the second largest ash Tree in the state of NH; The New Hampshire Big Tree County Champion for Hillsboro County. We decided to shift our offering to a more community-oriented and environment-friendly area.
Sunset Hill Orchard sits atop a hill with views of local hiking areas like the Uncanookic Mountains and on a clear winter day Pats Peak.
We would like a tent(s) set up to find ideal spots around the manicured grass around the ash tree to maintain the area. Just like wilderness adventures, there could be poison ivy, sumac, and other uncomfortable part of nature, please always use caution.
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Suncook River Camp
17. Suncook River Camp
100%
(15)
40mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Enjoy the outdoors of New Hampshire, just an hour outside of Boston, and located 5 minutes from Bear Brook State Park. Fishing, kayaking, river tubing, and hiking are all right in our backyard.
Suncook River Camp is under new ownership (2024). We can't wait to spend time with you on the river this season.
We offer everything from bring-your-own tent sites to upscale vintage camper experiences. Our campground has bathroom and brand new shower facilities onsite, or bring your RV and just plug and play.
Come to Southern NH's Suncook River: canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards (SUPs), or your best alligator floatie. We're waiting for you. The Suncook River also offers some of the best fishing and wildlife watching around!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Appleseed Flower Farm at York Beach
18. Appleseed Flower Farm at York Beach
94%
(26)
41mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 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
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Country Camping
19. Country Camping
95%
(21)
41mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 1 site
THIS CAN BE RENTED AS A CAMPSITE ONLY. Our 3-acre property is surrounded by beautiful countryside with lots country charm. At one point in the early 1900's it was home to itinerant farmers who farmed the nearby fields. Our property was the dumping grounds for the stones/rocks that were pulled from the fields. You will notice lots of them throughout the property!
Our site is a well manicured area near our house on a 3-acre parcel. There is lots of sun and shade depending on when and where you happen to be on the site. There is plenty of space to pull out your favorite lawn game and a great firepit to keep warm at night. We are about 10 minutes from Clough State Park where there is plenty to do including swimming, paddling, biking, hiking, ATVing, etc. Our site has 50amp service and filtered well water (2 spigots). Depending on how long your RV is, you may not be able to put our your awning all the way.
Pets
Full hookups
Magpie and Jaebird's Little A-frame
20. Magpie and Jaebird's Little A-frame
97%
(158)
46mi from Harold Parker State Forest · 1 site
Follow us on Instagram @shitefootfarms
As always we are excited and can't wait to share our place with you! We are a small farmette with goats, chickens, ducks, fruits, veggies, and Irish Wolfhounds. The 1.3 acre parcel across the street from the house and farm has a forested peninsula that the A-frame is located on. Our street ends in a small stream that continues to separate the farmstead from the A-frame site.
Come stay in our tiny rustic A frame cabin built of mostly reclaimed materials. Enjoy being across the stream and over the bridge from the main house on a private peninsula. Enjoy the privacy of a "single site" camp! Use the fire pit, grill, outdoor wood stove, single burner butane stove or umm the bathroom :) without having to leave your site! Please be aware we are in town and you may hear road noise, lawn mowers, dogs, ect. You may also see and hear wildlife ex; deer, beavers, ducks, muskrats, rabbits, geese, foxes, and coyotes. We encourage native plants and work to provide a sanctuary for many threatened bird species.
The cabin is 100sq. feet with sloping interior walls the flip up side wall is permanently open and screened in. There is no running water or electricity so unplug and unwind. A place to plug in and the water spigot a short stroll from your cabin in the driveway The cabin has a a full size mattress with sheets, blankets, throws and pillows. Lanterns, cooking utensils, camp mugs and camp coffee pot are provided. Please request the cast iron skillet and butane burner, it will not be in the cabin if you do not ask for it.
You are also welcome to set up your own tent. Please note cleared space is limited and the tent should be a 1-3 person smaller tent.
Outside on the deck are tiki torches, woodstove and bistro table. There is a hammock, picnic table, and 2 sets of outdoor chairs at your site. We do not have a swimming hole but the town beach is 5 minutes away and requires a day pass.
If you forget something you are a short walk to Cumbies, and several farms, bakeries and a large grocer are a very short drive away. Venture farther (10 minutes) to one of the nearby hiking trails.
We are within 15 minutes of the Blackstone Gorge, Southern New England Trunkline Trail, Cornier Woods, Franklin State Forest, Wojcik Farm, Cook's Valley Farm, the New England Bonsai Museum, Diamond Hill Vineyards, Caroline's Cannabis, Shire Conservation Area, New England Country Club, and many stables.
The Commuter Rail to Boston, Wrentham Premium Outlets, and a Drive-in Theater are within 30 minutes. Use us as a base to explore Blackstone Valley, Boston and Worcester!! Please let us know if you need something we may have it, we want you to enjoy your stay!!
Follow us on Instagram for updates on our favorite local spots for hiking, eating, entertainment and shopping. We Support Black Lives Matter, the LBGTQ+, AAPI and BIPoC communities @shitefootfarms. Visit our Instagram profile, follow and dm for a 15% discount code
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
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Angela
6 days ago
With pets
I absolutely loved this campsite! The cabin was cute and cozy, and the nearby brook was so pleasant to listen to and watch flow. I even took a dip in it to clean up a bit! The campsite itself is in the trees and shaded so the 85 degree days felt more like 75 degree days at the camp, which was much better for my dog who overheats. Everything was clean. Plenty of drinking water was provided. The toilet nearby was great. I loved the swing. The king size air mattress provided was perfect for me and my dog to cuddle up at night. April was a very thoughtful host and made sure I settled in okay and asked if I needed anything. 10/10 would recommend! I hope to come back soon!
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R
Rod
2 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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D
Daniel
3 weeks ago
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
3 weeks ago
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
3 weeks ago
Tent
First timer here and definitely look forward to going back. Stunning property and cozy campsite, a great place.
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D
Daniel
3 weeks ago
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!
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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!
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O
Ofer
April 2026
20 ft campervan
Very nice cute place friendly staff Cleaning organized
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Rachel
April 2026
Tent
With pets
Peter has done an amazing job setting up the sites with platforms and fire pits. The outhouse was clean and obviously well-maintained. The parking for site 1 makes for easy access to the car from the site. Loved waking up to the sound of the brook and enjoying the view while I sat by the fire.
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Lausanne
April 2026
Tent
This site was super Snuggly! Great location by the river, well maintained, and Jody was very responsive. Will definitely be trying to stay here again!
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J
Jack
April 2026
24 ft Class C
With pets
The owner Rick was great. Booking was fast and responsive with clear directions for parking. The property is gorgeous with flowering trees, pond, pergolas. Would highly recommend this location.
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Wan
April 2026
Tent
The owner’s of SnugLife camping love the land that gives campers a beautiful place to be at peace and unplug from hustle and bustle of the world. Please note the owners of the land is just as important as the natural beauty. You can feel their peaceful spirit and caring heart that you are exploring and experiencing nature and camp life in a beautiful environment
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J
Jennifer
April 2026
3 nights at Magpie and Jaebird's Little A-frame
First of all....you are greeted by the warmest, genuine soul🫶🏻😊. I'm a lover of bird songs, and it was music to my ears. It was a "peace" of heaven, a place to reset, and enjoy the little things
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Wayne
April 2026
Tent
I had a relaxing stay at site #1 for two nights. It was nice to be able to park my motorcycle loaded with all my gear close to the site. Firewood set up was great and appreciated, as I arrived late on Friday and it was already dark. Others mentioned the highway noise but I think the sound of the running brook drowned out the noise. Slept like a rock both nights. The site was beautiful and well maintained. Directions were spot on. My only complaint would be that I didn’t have more time to explore the property and surrounding scenic areas.. also, that Mother Nature wasn’t very kind on Sunday… nothing like packing up in the rain lol. I will definitely be back for another stay!! Thanks again Peter, for providing a relaxing retreat!
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Sean
April 2026
Tent
With pets
Wonderful location and property. We stayed at site 4. Definitely would recommend. Only drawback was we struggled to sustain a strong fire with the wood which could have been more dry so we wound up gathering sticks to burn, but that’s likely just due to the early part of the season. Thank you for a nice weekend.
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S
Sarah
April 2026
Weekend Trip to SnugLife Camping
A beautiful, secluded, woodsy spot for camping! Very responsive hosts--we'll definitely be back!
See moreJ
Josh
April 2026
Tent
Group trip
Great camping spot! We chose site #1 and it fit all 5 of us very comfortably. Nice big fire pit & well secluded. Slight noise from the highway but the soothing sounds of the brook downed it out. I’ll definitely be coming back!
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A
Abby
April 2026
Weekend Trip to Pine Brook Retreat
Gorgeous scenery, attentive host, and very friendly dog. Had a great stay!
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N
Natacha
April 2026
24 ft Class C
We enjoyed staying at Julie’s place!
Her house is on a quiet street and the beautiful town of Portsmouth is close by.
The site was leveled, and came with water and electricity.
See moreC
Christine
April 2026
2 nights at SnugLife Camping
This camp had everything you need. Awesome spot. You can hear the water right outside tge tent. Has chairs for you by fire and cooking area. Cool spot would come back!!!
See moreHarold Parker State Forest camping guide
Overview
About
Lookin’ to ditch Beantown but don’t have much time? Well, Harold Parker State Forest just twenty miles north covers 3,000 acres of white pine forest to go off adventuring in. Fun activities include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and fishing–motor propelled boats are a no-no however. Not ready to head back to the city yet? Then stay over at the nearby campground just two miles down the road. The sites themselves are wicked spread out and offer a prime-time forest camping experience. And it gets better! Each is equipped with a grill and picnic table for you and your whole crew to enjoy.
Notable campgrounds
- The Lorraine Park Campground offers a classic camping experience with 89 sites suitable for tents and RVs alike.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Book early, as spots fill up quickly, especially during peak summer months.
- Check for cancellations regularly to snag a last-minute reservation.
- Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability.
- Explore nearby camping options if the park is fully booked.
When to go
The best time to visit Harold Parker State Forest is from May to October when the park is fully accessible and activities like swimming and boating can be enjoyed. Winter offers a quiet, snowy retreat for cross-country skiing and ice skating.
Know before you go
- Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for New England's variable conditions.
- Parking fees apply from mid-May to October; have cash on hand for the $5 resident or $20 non-resident fee.
- Accessible facilities are available, including camping sites and restrooms.
- Remember to pack out all trash and respect the no-alcohol policy.
- Wildlife is abundant, so keep a safe distance and store food securely.
Reviews for Harold Parker State Forest Campgrounds
94%
9 ratings · 2 reviews
July 2016
We stayed there last summer & made it our base camp for Salem. If we ever get back to Mass. we'll be there again. A surprisingly "wild" camping experience central to the Boston & The Northeast section of Mass. Get a spot on the pond. We were right across from the bathroom, which has showers & flush toilets. There are no hookups (no electricity). They do take reservations which I would recommend in the summer.
Cynthia K.
9 years on Hipcamp
September 2015
Harold Parker State Campground is the perfect distance from Boston for small one- or two-day escapes. I recently packed my pannier and headed up for a sunday evening stay. The ride from Boston is a pleasant two hour trip up through some small towns and rural roads, and has bike lanes most of the way.
On a Sunday evening in the Fall the park is mostly empty, which means you get the bright and open camp grounds all to yourself! I had a blast exploring the trails through the state park on my cyclecross bike, and watching sunset over Fresh Lake.
This is definitely me default quick getaway from the city!
Myles T.
6 reviews
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