Reservations Open For 2023 MA State Campground Season

MASSACHUSETTS — You can now reserve campground spots at Massachusetts state parks for the 2023 season.

The state Department of Conservation and Recreation began accepting reservations Wednesday morning for campgrounds across Massachusetts. For 2023, the state is touting new enhancements to campgrounds, including new and refurbished yurts, and upgrading camp sites at a handful of state parks.

Reservations are available at the state's 27 campgrounds beginning through October. Campers can make camping reservations at one of DCR’s campgrounds up to four months in advance of their arrival date through ReserveAmerica.

Campsites are eligible for reservation any time between one day and four months prior to the arrival date. There is a two-day minimum and a 14-day maximum for most campsites.

Campgrounds vary in what's available, from showers and flush toilets to R.V. sites with electric and water hookups, according to the DCR. Island camping, yurts, cabins, and a hike-in area are available at some sites.

“Over the past several years, we have seen the importance of seeking outdoor recreational activities and connecting with nature and the world around us,” Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper said in a statement. “The Healey-Driscoll Administration is proud of the many diverse camping opportunities offered throughout the state, and we look forward to seeing new and returning visitors to DCR’s many campsites during the 2023 camping season.”

Last season, the DCR had more than 50,000 camping reservations at 26 campgrounds. This season, the DCR is expanding to 27 campgrounds.

“Camping is one of the many ways residents and visitors can get outside to enjoy the fresh air and explore the Massachusetts State Parks system,” DCR Commissioner Doug Rice said in a statement.

The DCR has made investments in campgrounds in the last year including the following:

• $4.8 million for Salisbury Beach State Reservation to replace and improve water mains, increase accessibility by creating 50 accessible camping sites, add new walkways at three comfort stations, and improve accessibility of campgrounds access to beach pathways.
• $4 million for a full overhaul and redesign of the Horseneck Beach State Reservation campground, including the addition of 65 new electrical sites, improved coastal and beach access, a reconfigured layout allowing for vehicles to back into campsites, and playground upgrades.
• $1.2 million for campsite restoration at approximately 450 sites at Shawme-Crowell State Forest, Lake Dennison Recreation Area, Massasoit State Park, Nickerson State Park, and Harold Parker State Forest.
• $300,000 on new yurts and improvements to existing yurts, picnic tables, grills, and fire rings for campgrounds across the state.
• The agency is also initiating a pilot program at Scusset Beach State Reservation, which will add 14 fire rings into the campground.

Capacity restrictions put in place during the pandemic have been removed, making more campsites available. For more information and questions about the 2023 camping season, visit the agency’s website or email dcr.campinginfo@mass.gov.