These 8 Scenic Spots Are Extraordinary For Primitive Camping In Massachusetts
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Sophia
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There’s no better way to get in touch with our friends, family, and self than to head out on an outdoor adventure. Escaping into nature and sleeping among the elements is one sure way to feed our weary souls. We found some of the best locations for primitive camping in Massachusetts that are perfect for a camping weekend. If you recently searched for hidden camping spots near me, here are eight scenic camping destinations that have just what you need.
1. Boston Harbor Islands National & State Park, Boston
Boston Harbor Islands National & State Park, 191w Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02109, USA
Peddocks Island is one of the only islands in Boston Harbor that is open for camping. The campsite is only accessible by ferry or by private boat, so if you’re looking for a remote destination, this is the place. You can choose from yurts, tent camping or group campsites. Plan your escape between mid-June and early September.
2. Dune's Edge Campground, Provincetown
Dunes' Edge Campground, 386 US-6, Provincetown, MA 02657, USA
Dune's Edge is a quiet, family-friendly campground in a beautiful coastal setting. Pitch your tent amidst the pine trees, and enjoy the close proximity to the Cape Cod National Seashore. There are modern bathrooms, coin-operated hot showers, dishwashing stations, and a camp store. Leashed pets are also welcome!
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3. D.A.R. State Forest Campground, Goshen
DAR State Forest, 78 Cape Street, Goshen, MA 01032, USA
This remote campground in Massachusetts is tucked between beautiful Upper Highland Lake and a lovely wetland, where moose, beavers, and other critters roam. There are 50 sites available and miles of hiking trails to explore. There is even a wheelchair-accessible trail that runs right along the edge of Highland Lake, as well as a sandy swimming beach.
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4. Harold Parker State Forest Campground, Andover
Harold Parker State Forest, 133 Jenkins Rd, Andover, MA 01810, USA
Camping at Loraine Campground near Berry Pond in the Harold Parker State Forest offers bike and hiking trails, picnic grounds, and some truly awesome fishing sites. Just be warned: this MA campground is thought to be haunted!
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5. Horseneck Beach State Reservation, Westport
East Beach Road, Horseneck Beach State Reservation, E Beach Rd, Westport, MA 02790, USA
With over 800 acres of barrier beach, Horseneck Beach is a pretty popular camping spot. The 100 campsites are located just behind the dunes near Gooseberry Neck. If you love spending time on the water or if you're a nature enthusiast who loves wildlife viewing, this is the ideal camping spot for you.
6. Cape Ann Campsite, Gloucester
Cape Ann Camp Site, 80 Atlantic St, Gloucester, MA 01930, USA
Cape Ann Campsite is a quaint, New England-style campsite within 30 miles of Boston and just moments from the white sand beaches of Cape Ann. With over 200 unique sites, each with their own ready-made fireplace and picnic table, this is a great place to spend a few days connecting with nature.
7. Granville State Forest Campground, Granville
Granville State Forest, 323 W Hartland Rd, Granville, MA 01034, USA
Tucked inside Granville State Forest, this scenic campground is deep, lush, and peaceful. The campground features 22 campsites open from mid-May to mid-October. Most campsites offer flush toilets and showers, though no hookups.
8. Historic Valley Campground, North Adams
Historic Valley Campground, 200 Windsor Lake Rd, North Adams, MA 01247, USA
This family camping site on Windsor Lake features 100 wooded sites, plenty of hiking trails, and the most convenient lakefront access around. There are electric and water hookups, as well as a "modern comfort station" for when you need a break from the great outdoors. Laundry is also available. Open May – October.
Have any other suggestions for primitive camping in Massachusetts? Let us know! Also, in case you missed it, here’s our previous list of amazing Massachusetts camping spots.
These 10 Amazing Camping Spots In Massachusetts Are An Absolute Must See
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More to Explore
Camping In Massachusetts
What are the best state parks in Massachusetts for camping visit?
There are some truly amazing state parks to visit in Massachusetts. From dramatic mountains to shady woodland groves, the best state parks in Massachusetts offer a little bit of everything -- including some amazing campgrounds!
- Mount Greylock State Reservation. Mount Greylock Reservation was the first state park in Massachusetts, and it set the bar pretty high. Hike over 50 miles of trails while catching panoramic views of five surrounding states. Bunk down for the night at Greylock Campground, or spring for something more luxurious at the rustic Bascom Lodge, situated at the summit of Mount Greylock for the most epic views. This is one of the most scenic state parks to visit in Massachusetts. Learn more about Mount Greylock State Reservation on the state's website.
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Myles Standish State Forest (MSSF) offers five camping areas that are tucked into the forest of set along the edges of four of the park’s 16 lovely ponds. They even have an area set aside for horse camping. Explore 15 miles of bicycle trails, 35 miles of equestrian trails, and 13 miles of hiking trails that will take you deep into the forest. In the summer, programs such as cranberry bog explorations and cultural history walks are offered. This park offers some of the best hiking trails in Massachusetts.
- Nickerson State Park. This Massachusetts State Park is massive. Explore over 1,900 acres of shadowy woods and sunny meadows, go fishing in stocked trout ponds, and cycle the eight-mile bike path that leads into the Cape Cod Rail Trail. There are 400 sites to choose from in the park's campground, so you can definitely find a locale that you love.
- Beartown State Forest. This park is sometimes overlooked in favor of the larger options, but it definitely deserves some attention. It’s a wonderful spot for camping, fishing, boating, and even snowmobiling. The forest includes an extensive network of trails across 12,000 acres and offers visitors a chance to glimpse deer, bears, bobcats, fisher cats and other wildlife, including the park's namesake, the black bear. Check out nearby Fountain Pond State Park for even more outdoor excitement. It's one of the loveliest state parks to visit in Massachusetts.
- Mohawk Trail State Forest. This is one of the most scenic woodland area in Massachusetts and offers visitors an opportunity to sample real wilderness and untamed natural beauty. There are over 6,000 across of mountain ridges, deep gorges, and old-growth trees to explore. Check out one of their 47 campsites for all-seasons camping and definitely look into booking one of the log cabin rentals for the weekend. If you’re up for a hike, try literally following in the footsteps of Native Americans by walking the Mahican-Mohawk trail that connects the Connecticut and Hudson River Valleys. There are a lot of great things to do outside in Massachusetts at this state park.
What are the best glampgrounds in Massachusetts?
If you prefer a more comfortable camping experience, here are several glampgrounds in Massachusetts that promise the comfort of home:
- The Pondhouse, Ashfield
- Wells State Forest, Sturbridge
- Pine Acres Family Camping Resort, Oakham
- AutoCamp Cape Cod, Cape Cod
- Vintage Caboose Rental, Chester
- Pinewood Lodge Campground, Plymouth
- Normandy Farms Campground, Foxborough
- Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Camp-Resort: Cranberry Acres, Carver,
- Mohawk Park Campground. Charlemont
- Shawme-Crowell State Forest, Sandwich
Check out our article telling you more about these amazing glampgrounds in Massachusetts.