The best camping in Bradley Palmer State Park, MA

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Discover the scenic trails and historic charm of Bradley Palmer State Park.  

The best camping in Bradley Palmer State Park, MA

Bakers Island Light Campsite

1. Bakers Island Light Campsite

100%
(115)
9.7mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 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
Quiet rural organic property

2. Quiet rural organic property

97%
(45)
19mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 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.

3. Camp Hood.

98%
(25)
21mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 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

4. F.a.C Campout

95%
(234)
22mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 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

5. Bear + Bird Homestead

99%
(39)
24mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 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
Patti's Beaver Pond

6. Patti's Beaver Pond

100%
(11)
26mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 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
Camp in the woods

7. Camp in the woods

96%
(111)
27mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 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
Ponderings at White Pond

8. Ponderings at White Pond

98%
(53)
29mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 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
Harveys Hill

9. Harveys Hill

100%
(41)
30mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 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
Inn On The Horse Farm

10. Inn On The Horse Farm

92%
(18)
32mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 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
Boulder Brook

11. Boulder Brook

98%
(169)
32mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 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
Wildcat

12. Wildcat

99%
(48)
33mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 1 site · Tent
Campsites are situated in the wooded area on our property land that integrates into hundreds of acres of conservation land with hiking trails that are also great for XC skiing, kettle ponds, and wetlands. The property is surrounded on 3 sides by conservation land with trails, 45 minutes from Boston and 10 minute drive to groceries, stores and restaurants. The house is right off a country road with our property and conservation land both across the street and behind our house. The area is in the heart of New England and is beautiful at all times of year. Minutes from Rte 495 and 2, we are along a popular bike route, 10 minutes from Carlson Orchards and the bistro/cafe Harvard General Store. We have goats, chickens, and lambs that guests can say hi to. Please note: Guests may camp only on the terrace unless otherwise approved. There is a woodpile next to the parking - we regret thqt we cannot share this with guests but it’s our winter heat source!
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$35
 / night
Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground

13. Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground

94%
(86)
33mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 100 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape the bustle without sacrificing convenience at Spacious Skies Minute Man. Nestled in historic Littleton’s pine forests, our campground offers a peaceful retreat steps away from iconic National Historic Parks and Walden Pond. Choose wooded or open sites for your RV or tent, enjoy modern amenities like our heated pool and rec hall, and let the kids and pups run free in the playground and dog runs. Need a break from cooking? Our camp store has you covered, plus local restaurants deliver! Cozy cabins are also available. Don’t miss out on this unique blend of nature and city access – book your stay today! Relax in the heart of history at Spacious Skies Minute Man. Our campground’s tranquil, wooded setting near legendary Walden Pond and National Historic Parks offers the perfect escape from everyday life. Whether you’re in an RV, tent, or one of our cozy cabins, you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable adventure: picnic tables, fire rings, full hookups, plus a heated pool, playground, rec hall, and even dog runs for your furry companions. Need a break from camp cooking? Our well-stocked camp store has essentials, and nearby restaurants offer takeout and delivery options for those lazy campground evenings. Explore the rich history of the region, immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility, or take a quick trip into Boston – the choice is yours! Spacious Skies Minute Man provides a unique blend of outdoor adventure and urban access. Don’t miss your chance to experience the best of both worlds! Our prime location and fantastic amenities mean sites fill up quickly. Book your getaway today and create memories that will last a lifetime at Spacious Skies Minute Man.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$92
 / night
Vintage camper, waterfront &firepit

14. Vintage camper, waterfront &firepit

94%
(110)
36mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 3 sites · Lodging
Get outside and bring the dog! Glamping tiny house style. Vintage RV with attached enclosed room. Your own waterfront beach with campfire pit.  Dogs welcome! Very close to neighbors in a quite secluded neighborhood, 10 miles from Boston. Experience the natural beauty of Massachusetts just a few miles outside of Boston, Blue Hills Reservation stretches over 7,000 acres with 125 miles of trails to explore through forests and wetlands, up hills and more.   Peace and serenity 19 miles from downtown Boston MA.   Bring the dog for swimming. Kayak and canoe in the back yard at the waters edge. Marshmallows and firewood included. Linens included. Space in backyard to pitch an extra tent for guests.  Parking on lot in front of camper. Hiking trails around the lake.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$125
 / night
Jest-A-Bit Farm

15. Jest-A-Bit Farm

100%
(16)
36mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 3 sites · RVs
Parking/camping in various places. All very flat. One or two spots near barn, more spots nearby indoor riding arena, we can run extension cords for lights and some power. Town water so there is plenty of drinking water via hose or sink in barn. Private spaces but not secluded. It is a running horse farm with plenty of equine fun. Plenty of hiking trails, near river, and open fields. 1 mile to get into town. 5 miles fr
Pets
from 
$45
 / night
Appleseed Flower Farm at York Beach

16. Appleseed Flower Farm at York Beach

94%
(26)
36mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 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
Peaceful Convenience

17. Peaceful Convenience

100%
(53)
37mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 2 sites · Lodging
Come experience New England, embrace the silence, enjoy this 2.5 Acres property Abutting over 100 acres of protected wetlands with access to a private Home; bathroom, screened in porch, use of kitchen for coffee etc. all to enjoy. A babbling brook, hammock trees, peaceful, and serene. The surrounding area is a right to farm community with local beautiful farms within five minutes in every direction property is on a known bike route (2 bikes available for use) The town host a wonderful winery local coffee shop and hiking trails (map book on site) multiple area conservation lands. Bolton is known for its apple farms in the fall for picking and spring time blossoms. August through September harvest (my favorite) plenty of pick your own everything! We have great historic towns surrounding us like concord, Harvard and Hudson voted best small town in America, so much history, dinning etc. cross country skiing. Convenient location to Boston. If looking for an stress free escape the home also offers 2 guest rooms available for rent within a meditative shared space. Fire pit outdoors, fireplace in doors.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$50
 / night
Riverside Camp at Brandmoore

18. Riverside Camp at Brandmoore

97%
(95)
39mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
This is a very historic area with the Salmon Falls River being big enough for gundalows to travel to bring goods upriver in the 19th century. Story has it that cows were brought to New England on this land!Learn more about this land:Set up your tent in a flat, grassy area near the Salmon Falls River. In the barnyard of our dairy farm while being very peaceful and clean. You may hear the cows in the morning!There is a covered 'sawmill building' with a picnic table for you to enjoy.
Toilets
Picnic table
from 
$57
 / night
Grateful Acres by York Beach!

19. Grateful Acres by York Beach!

92%
(19)
41mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Whether you're looking for a home base for a beach or hiking adventure, or a peaceful getaway, Grateful Acres is truly a heaven we want to share with you! Our beautiful spot for your camper or tent is located minutes from Short and Long Sands beaches, Mt. A, and 8 minutes to Ogunquit, you’ll have access to all Maine’s southern seacoast has to offer. Build a campfire. Read a book. Soak in salt of the ocean. Or embark and explore top rated restaurants, beaches, museums, parks, and outdoor adventures!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
Pine Brook Retreat

20. Pine Brook Retreat

100%
(11)
42mi from Bradley Palmer State Park · 1 site · Lodging
I’ve lived on this property for over 40 years of my life, exploring and camping many times in these woods. I decided to build an A-frame cabin perched on the hill that overlooks the brook a few years back and it has quickly become my happy place. This site is a great space to be in the woods, but not too far from things. You can explore the 15+ acres of woods, take a dip in the water, forage mushrooms or just sit under the pines. The cabin is just a few minute walk past the tree line and very private. We are thrilled to share this beautiful peaceful space with you. .
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$80
 / night

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Bradley Palmer State Park adventure.

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The best camping in Bradley Palmer State Park, MA guide

Overview

About

Camping near Bradley Palmer State Park offers an eclectic blend of history, nature, and outdoor activities that will captivate any camper's heart. The park itself is a treasure trove of experiences, starting with its iconic mansion, the Willowdale Estate. Once the hub for Harvard reunions and governmental gatherings, the stone-built mansion now serves as a venue for public events like historical tours and holiday celebrations. It's a fascinating glimpse into the past, right in the middle of nature. But let's talk trails, shall we? Bradley Palmer State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're into walking, hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding, the park's trails have got you covered. The Bay Circuit Trail and the Discover Hamilton Trail intersect here, offering varied terrains for all levels of adventurers. And if you're visiting in the fall, don't be surprised to see horses trotting along; the park is a popular spot for equestrian activities, including organized fox hunts from neighboring farms. A Bradley Palmer State Park camping experience also opens up opportunities for other activities. Fancy a day of canoeing or fishing? The park has facilities for both. There's even a handicapped-accessible wading pool, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a splash. And let's not forget the picnicking spots, perfect for a laid-back meal amidst nature. In essence, camping near Bradley Palmer State Park offers a rich tapestry of experiences, making it an ideal destination for campers looking to explore history, nature, and a whole lot of outdoor fun.

When to go

The best time to visit Bradley Palmer State Park is from late spring to early fall, when the park's flora is in full bloom and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Peak bloom typically occurs in mid-June, offering a spectacular display. Winters can be cold, but offer serene snow-covered landscapes for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.

Know before you go

  • Check the park's hours before planning your visit; it's open from sunrise to sunset.
  • A daily parking fee applies from May 14 through October 30, with different rates for MA residents and non-residents.
  • Accessible trails and beach wheelchairs are available, ensuring everyone can enjoy the park.
  • Remember that hunting is permitted in designated areas, so always stay aware of your surroundings.
  • Facilities include restrooms, picnic areas, and a spray deck, enhancing your park experience.

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