- Harold Parker State Forest
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.
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Anna
1 week ago
26 ft travel trailer
With pets
Emily and her husband were very kind and accommodating. They have a lovely property and, while tricky to back into, it was a great place to be for a week. The woods behind the house are nice and there are many trails nearby to hike and explore. Quiet, pleasant , and beautiful area all around.
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Jessica
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Peaceful Convenience
It was a perfect spot to stop off and refuel after a week on the road in our van.
Thank you for having us Danielle!
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Oxana
November 2025
With pets
It’s a beautiful place to get away from the city, recommended.
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Kim
November 2025
With pets
Perfect peaceful spot to relax and shut down. We didn't really need anything but we knew April was there if we did. There are a lot of little things April leaves in the cabin in case you forget anything which is appreciated. It is decorated so cute with little lights inside which I appreciated at night. The spot is gorgeous with the sound and sights of a brook and trees. What more could you ask for? Sitting by the fire watching the moon rise and sipping coffee with the sun rise was so enjoyable. We didn't bring our dogs but will in the future. A great spot for them. You are in nature and have total peace but with the security of knowing April is right there if needed and hiking and stores are close by if you need them. Highly recommend this spot.
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Jessenia
October 2025
21 ft travel trailer
With pets
Very nice quiet area to stop and Julie was nice and welcoming.
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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.
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Leah
October 2025
Tent
Kaedra was very kind and we enjoyed the site. The ground was soft and we had a lovely fire. Added bonus that it backs up onto a beautiful preserve and is walkable from the site. We would definitely stay again!
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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.
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Siobhan
October 2025
Weekend Trip to SnugLife Camping
Jody and Keith’s site was beautiful. The stove in the tent kept it cozy throughout the autumn night. They provided a garden cart to transport our things which was helpful. The air mattress was as comfortable as an air mattress can be. Jody and Keith recommended that we bring lights, since we were arriving after sunset, but we foolishly overestimated the power of our phone flashlights. So definitely bring a few lanterns. I would definitely stay again. It was beautiful by the river.
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MAURA L
October 2025
21 ft Class B
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!
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Nicolas
October 2025
Tent
Cheryl is a great host and the property is lovely. Such a cool place to visit. 100% recommend
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Bryan
October 2025
With pets
We loved camping at the site. The amenities were excellent, and the hot tub was super clean. Overall, the experience was 5 stars.
This is in no way to denigrate or take away from the positive review. This is only a suggestion moving forward. When we arrived, we were informed that we were unable to use the fire pit because there was a statewide ban due to a drought in New Hampshire. This is no way the problem of the owner of the site. It is out of their control. However, it would have been nice to know upon booking as doing a campfire is an integral part of the camping experience. The site still receives 5 stars :)
-Flynn
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Rosemary
October 2025
Tent
The campsite is connected to an awesome trail, I was super late and Kaedra was very courteous. Really lovely spot especially for this time of year
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Debra
October 2025
25 ft travel trailer
Nice and quiet. We had a good night's sleep. Julie is nice.
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Thalia
October 2025
With pets
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.
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YIFEI
October 2025
Tent
Second time visiting and as always friendly and clean! Had a great camp out in late fall weather
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Chris
October 2025
21 ft campervan
Beautiful property, great hosts, look forward to staying again.
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Mariah
October 2025
1 night at Pine Brook Retreat
Cutest little cabin nestled in a well loved place. The area built out for camping was so lovely and everything in the cabin was well thought out. We were unfortunately there during a burn ban but there was a lovely propane fire we were able to use and it was perfect. Listening to the creek while drinking my morning coffee was so so perfect.
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Ellen
October 2025
28 ft Class C
With kids
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.
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Andy
October 2025
23 ft Class C
With pets
Electricity, water, a level site, and a picnic spot. All we needed for this trip.
See moreTop public campgrounds in the park
Stay at a public campground in Harold Parker State Forest
Top-rated campgrounds
The best camping in Harold Parker State Forest, MA 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.
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