Massachusetts is one of those states that surprises those who haven't yet ventured beyond the city circuit. While Boston captures much of the attention of Brazilians living in the region, just a few kilometers away lies another world: trails among pine and oak trees, crystal-clear lakes, wild beaches, and campsites that will remain in your memory for years. If you live in the state—or are planning a getaway here—this guide will show you where to camp comfortably, safely, and with that touch of adventure that the hustle and bustle of everyday life doesn't offer.
The camping season in Massachusetts generally runs from April to October, with peak demand between Memorial Day (late May) and Labor Day (early September). Advance reservations are essential, especially in the most popular state parks. Most reservations are made online. ReserveAmerica or directly through the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) system.
1. Nickerson State Park — Brewster (Cape Cod)
In the heart of Cape Cod, Nickerson is arguably the state's most beloved campground. Its 418 campsites are nestled amidst pine and oak forests that slope gently down to the shores of eight crystal-clear freshwater lakes. The combination of unspoiled nature and good infrastructure makes it the perfect starting point for those who want to explore Cape Cod without relying on hotels.
The park features hiking trails, an 8-mile paved bike path that connects to the famous 26-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail, as well as yurt camping options and group areas. The lakes are suitable for swimming and canoeing, and the park is just minutes from Crosby Landing Beach on Cape Cod Bay.
For those planning a trip with a motorhome or trailer, it's worth mentioning that the park accepts pets on most websites, provided they are on a leash and a rabies certificate is presented at check-in.
Where: Brewster, MA (about 1:30 from Boston) Reservations: massdcrcamping.reserveamerica.com
2. Salisbury Beach State Reservation — Salisbury
For those who can't imagine sleeping without the sound of the ocean, Salisbury Beach is one of the best options in Massachusetts. The campground is located on the coast, at the mouth of the Merrimack River, and offers 484 camping sites with water and 20, 30, and 50 amp electrical connections, bathrooms with showers, and a playground.
Elevated walkways over the dunes provide direct access to the ocean beach, and two boat ramps on the river offer options for swimming, boat trips, and fishing. It's one of the few campsites in the state where you wake up, leave your tent, and are literally on the beach.
The location is very close to the New Hampshire border, making it a good base for exploring the northern region of the state. An important detail: same-day reservations can only be made until 14 PM on the day of arrival, and walk-in registrations without prior reservations are not permitted.
Where: Salisbury, MA (about 1 hour from Boston) Reservations: massdcrcamping.reserveamerica.com
3. Normandy Farms Campground — Foxborough
If your family has children or you simply prefer comfort without sacrificing contact with nature, Normandy Farms is hard to beat. With around 400 campsites equipped with water and power connections, bathrooms with showers, and waste collection, the campground offers a very complete infrastructure.
The facilities include a bike path, playgrounds, and easy access to hiking trails in the surrounding area. There's also a market within the campground itself—perfect for restocking anything you forgot in your luggage. It's located in Foxborough, a city known for being home to Gillette Stadium and the New England Patriots.
As a private campground, Normandy Farms offers a more polished experience than state parks, with more personalized service and additional amenities. Ideal for those new to camping or traveling with young children.
Where: Foxborough, MA (about 30 minutes from Boston) Website: normandyfarms.com
4. Myles Standish State Forest—Carver/Plymouth
With four campsites scattered throughout a pine forest near Plymouth—the Pilgrims' town—Myles Standish is one of the most accessible campgrounds for those in the corridor between Boston and Cape Cod. It's close to the historic town of Plymouth, considered the first home of the Pilgrims, and not far from the Massachusetts coast.
The park is especially good for families with children: it offers swimming, camping, and various activities throughout the year, with daily parking available. Camping fees in Massachusetts state parks are usually quite affordable, which is a plus for those who want to save on lodging.
Where: Carver / Plymouth, MA (about 50min from Boston) Reservations: massdcrcamping.reserveamerica.com
5. Shawme-Crowell State Forest—Sandwich
Anyone visiting Cape Cod for the first time will pass through Sandwich — and it's there that you'll find one of the most charming campgrounds in the region. Shawme-Crowell State Forest has 285 campsites, each with its own parking, as well as five group areas, six yurts, and over 60 RV sites.
Among the amenities are barbecue grills, a playground, picnic areas, basketball courts, a nature center, restrooms, and showers. The park also has trails for hikers, and its strategic location at the entrance to Cape Cod facilitates excursions to the beaches and historic villages of the region.
One interesting advantage: Shawme-Crowell operates year-round, making it one of the few camping options in Massachusetts that are open outside of the summer season.
Where: Sandwich, MA (Cape Cod entrance) Reservations: massdcrcamping.reserveamerica.com
6. October Mountain State Forest — Lee (Berkshires)
For those who want to explore the Berkshires — the most mountainous and idyllic region of Massachusetts — October Mountain is the go-to campground. It's the largest state forest in Massachusetts, located in the western part of the state, not far from Albany (NY), known for hiking and mountain biking in the summer and cross-country skiing in the winter.
Autumn is the most spectacular time to visit: the forest transforms into a carpet of reds, oranges, and yellows that rivals Vermont's famous foliage. Camping at this time becomes an almost cinematic experience. Access to the Berkshires region also allows visits to museums, art galleries, and small towns like Lenox and Stockbridge.
Where: Lee, MA (about 2:30 hours from Boston) Reservations: massdcrcamping.reserveamerica.com
7. Wompatuck State Park—Hingham
For Brazilians living in Boston who want to camp without dealing with heavy traffic, Wompatuck is the most practical option. The park covers 3.526 acres and features 40 miles of hiking trails and 12 miles of roads free of motorized vehicles.
With 12 miles of car-free roads and 40 miles of mountain bike trails, Wompatuck is considered one of the best cycling spots in Massachusetts. Because it's near Boston, the park tends to get quite busy on summer weekends—it's best to book well in advance and, if possible, opt for weekdays.
Where: Hingham, MA (about 40 minutes from Boston) Reservations: massdcrcamping.reserveamerica.com
8. Clarksburg State Park — Clarksburg (Northern Berkshires)
In the northernmost corner of the Berkshires, Clarksburg is a smaller, quieter campground, ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. Clarksburg State Park stands out for its consistently clean facilities and tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for those looking for a more secluded camping experience.
The park is located near Adams and North Adams, cities that in recent decades have reinvented themselves as contemporary art destinations — the MASS MoCA (Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art) is a must-see for anyone in the area. An unusual and very pleasant combination: camping amidst nature and visiting one of the world's largest art museums during the day.
Where: Clarksburg, MA (Northern Berkshires, near North Adams) Reservations: massdcrcamping.reserveamerica.com
Practical tips before camping in Massachusetts
Before we set off, here's some information that makes a difference in practice. Most state parks prohibit alcoholic beverages in camping areas—a rule that contrasts sharply with the Brazilian custom of barbecuing with beer, but one that is taken seriously by the rangers.
For those considering traveling by motorhome or trailer, it's worth checking the dimensions of the sites and access to the area in advance. Some campsites have narrow entrances with low trees, so it's important to verify that your vehicle has enough space before booking.
If you're not yet familiar with Boston and are planning to combine camping with a tour of the capital, check out our guide on... what to do in Boston — It has tips on attractions, neighborhoods, and experiences that are well worth it. And if the idea is to travel by RV or motorhome through Massachusetts or other states, we have complete content about it. How to rent a motorhome in the USA which will help you plan everything more safely.
Massachusetts' nature is generous — and experiencing it from a tent or RV parked amidst the pine trees is one of the most honest ways to understand why so many people choose to stay here.
