Best Beach Camping in Massachusetts

A true nature lover's dream, Massachusetts' coastline is home to hundreds of beachfront campsites that boast amenities like swimming, fishing, hiking, hunting, and more. Whether you're looking to camp directly on the beach and feel the ocean breeze or stay in a more wooded and secluded setting that offers a bit of privacy, you'll find that there's no shortage of beach camping in Massachusetts. With ample scenic campgrounds to choose from, finding one that suits you will be easy — and these are a few of our top picks.

Boston Harbor Islands

Image via Flickr by Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

Located just minutes from downtown Boston, Boston Harbor Islands offers a truly unique experience. From June to September, campers can enjoy picturesque views from one of the 33 campsites available at Bumpkin, Grape, Lovells, or Peddocks Islands. Each campsite includes an individual rustic tent that holds up to four people. For those traveling in larger groups, check out the yurts on Peddocks Island. They're all outfitted with electricity and bunk beds and can accommodate up to six people. These campsites are accessible either by ferry or by private boat.

Shawme-Crowell State Forest Campground

For beach camping in Massachusetts that the entire family will enjoy, pack the kids, the dogs, and your camping essentials and head over to Shawme-Crowell State Forest Campground. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this state-run locale boasting 700 acres of magnificent pine and oak trees, more than 15 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding, and over 285 campsites nestled in a wooded setting. Though this campground is not located directly on the beach, it's on the western end of Cape Code, which is just a quick five to 10 minute drive from the ocean.

Horseneck Beach State Reservation

If you've ever wanted to sleep under the stars, this is your chance. Enjoy a breathtaking sunrise from the comfort of your tent when you camp at Horseneck Beach State Reservation, one of Massachusetts' most popular beaches. Located at the western end of Buzzard's Bay, Horseneck Beach offers 2 miles of fun, sand, and relaxation. Take a swim in the Atlantic Ocean, sunbathe in the great outdoors, or spend the afternoon birdwatching; the possibilities are truly endless.

Salisbury Beach State Reservation

Home to another gorgeous Cape Code beach, Salisbury Beach State Reservation is located along the edge of Black Rock Creek and right next to the Atlantic Ocean. You'll enjoy the laid back ambience of this campground that features 484 primitive tent sites, two separate boat ramps along the Merrimack River, horseback riding trails, scenic viewing areas, and more. They have an on-site convenience store if you forget anything during your stay, but there's one item you'll definitely want to remember to pack: your Bluetooth Soundbar Cooler from Wet Sounds.

Scusset Beach State Reservation

Featuring 98 RV sites with full-hookups and five tent-only sites, Scusset Beach State Reservation makes for a wonderful and scenic camping destination. Take in the pristine sights of this public recreation area, located near the town of Sandwich, and spend the day swimming or fishing in the ocean. 

When it comes to amenities, they offer hunting, hiking trails, a nature center, and educational programs for the kids. In addition to a photo-worthy rock jetty and a brand-new boardwalk that was installed in 2013, the reservation offers unparalleled ocean views, ultra soft sand, and a conveniently located bike path that runs along the canal.

Race Point Beach

Perfect for camping enthusiasts of all ages, Race Point Beach offers truly phenomenal views of Cape Cod. Relax and enjoy a summer day at this idyllic beach, located at the northern tip of Provincetown, and be sure to look out for whales and dolphins since they're known to frequent the area. Along with the beautiful scenery this swoon-worthy spot provides, you can also trek to the nearby Race Point Lighthouse for an added adventure. No matter how you decide to spend your day, we're confident that this beachside campground won't disappoint.

Bourne Scenic Park

Bask in the beauty of Massachusetts' coastline at Bourne Scenic Park, a spectacular wooded camping area boasting 439 camping sites, including rustic-themed cabins and lodges as well as a number of other amenities. This pet-friendly facility offers two in-ground pools for freshwater swimming, and with beautiful saltwater beaches just a short drive away, it's the perfect place to enjoy the best of both worlds. Spend an afternoon biking or fishing or check out the indoor electronic game room.

Sandy Neck Beach Park

Soak up the sunshine at Sandy Neck Beach Park, a stunning barrier beach that's made up of 4,700 acres of dunes, maritime forests, and marshes. At 6 miles long, Sandy Neck is the area's longest beach and serves visitors from the nearby cities of Barnstable and Sandwich as well as many out-of-towners. This location offers primitive camping, horseback riding trails, access for off-road vehicles, fishing, fat tire bikes, and, depending on the time of year, fire pits. 

Winter Island/Waikiki Beach

Situated about an hour north of Boston on the coast of Massachusetts, Winter Island offers tent & RV camping facilities from May through October. Some of their amenities include a public beach with a lifeguard, a public boat launch, and beautiful views of the historic Fort Pickering Lighthouse and Salem Harbor. For a truly unforgettable adventure the whole family will enjoy, head into the nearby town of Salem and take a trolley tour. 

Though we only covered a few of our favorite Massachusetts beach camping spots, the reality is that there are many more to choose from, and they're all equally beautiful. Regardless of whether you prefer to camp in a more primitive setting or in a fully stocked cabin with all of the luxuries of home, Massachussetts offers ample options when it comes to camping on the beach. At the end of the day, all you really need are a few good friends, a good attitude, and your outdoor speakers from Wet Sounds to really enjoy your camping experience.