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The best camping in Willowdale State Forest, MA

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Discover the natural allure of Willowdale State Forest's trails and ponds.  

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Top-rated campgrounds near Willowdale State Forest

  • Bakers Island Light Campsite
  • Bakers Island Light Campsite
  • Bakers Island Light Campsite

Bakers Island Light Campsite

100%
(115)
12mi from Willowdale State Forest · 3 sites · Tents
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.
Toilets
Picnic table
from 
$60
 / night
  • Rick's Food and Spirits has lovely outdoor dining and an eclectic menu. http://www.rickskingston.com/
  • Rear of property
  • Rick's Food and Spirits has lovely outdoor dining and an eclectic menu. http://www.rickskingston.com/

Quiet rural organic property

97%
(45)
16mi from Willowdale State Forest · 1 site · RV
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
from 
$30
 / night
  • Camp Hood.
  • Camp Hood.
  • Camp Hood.

Camp Hood.

98%
(25)
18mi from Willowdale State Forest · 1 site · Tent
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
from 
$80
 / night
  • F.a.C Campout
  • F.a.C Campout
  • F.a.C Campout

F.a.C Campout

95%
(234)
20mi from Willowdale State Forest · 11 sites · Tents
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
from 
$20
 / night
  • Bear + Bird Homestead
  • Bear + Bird Homestead
  • Bear + Bird Homestead

Bear + Bird Homestead

99%
(39)
22mi from Willowdale State Forest · 1 site · Tent
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
from 
$60
 / night
  • Camp in the woods
  • Entrance is wet
  • Camp in the woods

Camp in the woods

96%
(111)
25mi from Willowdale State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Grandfather once lived on the property of a popular local restaurant owner original well and foundation still on site right on conservation trails with plenty of hiking biking and wildlifeLearn more about this land:3 acres private with hundreds of acres of hiking or biking abutting conservation land and 20 minutes from Hampton beach located 5 min from rt 101 and 125 new England dragway is 10 minutes away entrance can be muddy no low car access you need to walk in 500' or have AWD small building on property for fall hunting
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
  • Harveys Hill
  • Harveys Hill
  • Harveys Hill

Harveys Hill

100%
(41)
27mi from Willowdale 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$48
 / night
  • Patti's Beaver Pond
  • Patti's Beaver Pond
  • Patti's Beaver Pond

Patti's Beaver Pond

100%
(11)
28mi from Willowdale State Forest · 1 site · RV
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
from 
$80
 / night
  • Boulder Brook
  • deep enough to jump in!
  • Boulder Brook

Boulder Brook

98%
(169)
30mi from Willowdale State Forest · 6 sites · Tents
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
from 
$60
 / night
  • Ponderings at White Pond
  • Plenty of fishing
  • Ponderings at White Pond

Ponderings at White Pond

98%
(53)
31mi from Willowdale State Forest · 1 site · Lodging
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
from 
$165
 / night
  • Appleseed Flower Farm at York Beach
  • This is the fire pit, and also the tent site.
  • Appleseed Flower Farm at York Beach

Appleseed Flower Farm at York Beach

94%
(26)
33mi from Willowdale 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. 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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
  • Inn On The Horse Farm
  • Inn On The Horse Farm
  • Inn On The Horse Farm

Inn On The Horse Farm

92%
(18)
34mi from Willowdale State Forest · 2 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
from 
$45
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Inn On The Horse Farm
J
Joseph
November 2025
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.
See more
Quiet rural organic property
S
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
See more
Peaceful Convenience
J
Jessica
November 2025
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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Vintage camper, waterfront &firepit
O
Oxana
November 2025
With pets
Weekend Trip to Vintage camper, waterfront &firepit
It’s a beautiful place to get away from the city, recommended.
See more
Pine Brook Retreat
K
Kim
November 2025
With pets
Weekend Trip to Pine Brook Retreat
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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Boulder Brook
E
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.
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Harveys Hill
Avatar
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.
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Quiet rural organic property
J
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.
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view of the back of the cottage
Avatar
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.
See more
Wildcat
L
Leah
October 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Wildcat
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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Inn On The Horse Farm
E
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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Grateful Acres by York Beach!
M
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!
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Camp dinner!
Avatar
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
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Wildcat
R
Rosemary
October 2025
Tent
2 nights at Wildcat
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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Quiet rural organic property
Avatar
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.
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Inn On The Horse Farm
Avatar
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.
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Bear + Bird Homestead
Y
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
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Boulder Brook
A
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.
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Grateful Acres by York Beach!
Avatar
Chris
October 2025
21 ft campervan
Weekend Trip to Grateful Acres by York Beach!
Beautiful property, great hosts, look forward to staying again.
See more
Pine Brook Retreat
Avatar
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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The best camping in Willowdale State Forest, MA guide

Overview

About

Camping near Willowdale State Forest offers campers a unique opportunity to dive deep into nature's embrace. This forest boasts an intricate network of wooded trails that cater to diverse trail enthusiasts. Whether you're a hiker seeking serene paths or a mountain biker craving thrilling single tracks, Willowdale has something for every outdoor lover. The fire roads within the forest are not only perfect for hiking but are also jogger and stroller-friendly, ensuring that campers of all ages can enjoy the beauty of the forest. And for those who are keen on mountain biking, the extensive single tracks promise an adrenaline-pumping ride amidst the lush greenery. But that's not all. The renowned Bay Circuit Trail meanders through Willowdale State Forest, seamlessly connecting it to Bradley Palmer State Park in the south and Cleveland Farm State Forest to the west. This offers campers an extended trail experience, allowing them to explore beyond Willowdale and discover the neighboring natural wonders. The symphony of chirping birds, the rustle of leaves underfoot, and the gentle breeze whispering through the trees make a Willowdale State Forest camping trip a rejuvenating experience. It's a place where nature's magic is palpable, and every trail leads to a new adventure. So, for those eager to experience the great outdoors in all its glory, setting up camp near Willowdale State Forest is the way to go. Dive into nature, explore the trails, and let the forest's charm captivate your heart.

When to go

The best time to visit Willowdale State Forest is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is vibrant. Summer offers lush greenery, but be prepared for busier trails and warmer temperatures. Winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland, ideal for cross-country skiing, though some areas may be less accessible.

Know before you go

  • Willowdale State Forest is open from sunrise to sunset, providing ample time for day-long excursions.
  • Parking is complimentary, with several turnouts available along Ipswich and Linebrook Roads.
  • Remember, alcohol is prohibited, ensuring a family-friendly atmosphere.
  • Motorized vehicles are not allowed, preserving the park's natural tranquility.
  • For your safety and the preservation of the environment, please stay on designated trails and roads.

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Top state forests near Willowdale State Forest

Natchaug State Forest
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Top parks near Willowdale State Forest

Coolidge State Park
Ferry Beach State Park
White Mountain National Forest
Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor
Baxter State Park
Home Of Franklin D Roosevelt National Historic Site
Minute Man National Historical Park
Evansburg State Park

Top points of interest near Willowdale State Forest

Back Beach
Black Beach
Black Rock Beach
Bash Bish Falls
Crane Beach
Cayuga Lake
Sebago Lake
Buttermilk Falls

Top cities near Willowdale State Forest

Portland
Montauk
Hampton Beach
Lincoln
Lake George
Bar Harbor
Jim Thorpe
Lake Placid

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