Boston Harbor Islands Sp
00 review30 Shipyard Drive, Hingham, Massachusetts, 02043, United States
Boston Harbor Islands Sp
$8.00 - $140.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$8.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Tent campsites cost $8 for MA residents and $20 for non-residents. Yurts are priced at $55 for MA residents and $140 for non-residents. There is a $4.50 non-refundable transaction charge per reservation.
About this campground
Escape to Boston Harbor Islands State Park, where your camping adventure begins with a scenic boat or ferry ride across sparkling harbor waters. This isn't your typical campground—it's a rustic island retreat where composting toilets and the absence of modern showers remind you that you've truly left the mainland behind. Fresh water flows only on Peddocks Island, encouraging campers to embrace a simpler way of life while surrounded by ocean breezes and maritime history.
The Boston Harbor Islands State Park offers tent and yurt camping options. Peddocks Island is the primary location for overnight accommodations.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore islands that have witnessed centuries of American history. Massive Civil War-era forts still stand guard over the harbor, their weathered walls telling stories of soldiers who once watched these same waters. On Peddocks Island, charming summer cottages peek through the vegetation—remnants of a bygone era when wealthy Bostonians escaped the city heat. Every trail leads to another chapter of history, from military installations that defended our nation to the peaceful retreats of generations past.
Weather and SeasonsThe islands welcome adventurers year-round, each season painting a different portrait of harbor life. Summer transforms these historic outposts into bustling camping destinations, where warm days invite exploration and cool nights are perfect for stargazing. As autumn arrives, crisp air and fewer crowds create an intimate island experience. Even winter holds its charm—join the Winter Wander program to discover these islands in their quiet season, when dry conditions and peaceful trails offer a completely different perspective on Boston Harbor.
ElevationThe gentle, rolling terrain of these harbor islands creates an accessible camping experience where the journey matters more than the altitude gained.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself standing atop an island bluff, where a historic lighthouse guides boats through the harbor while Boston's skyline glimmers in the distance. Winding trails lead through surprising pockets of lush vegetation, opening suddenly to reveal centuries-old fort walls or hidden coves. The juxtaposition is breathtaking—wild island nature thriving just miles from one of America's great cities. Each island offers its own personality, from dramatic coastal views to intimate forest paths where summer cottages slowly surrender to nature's embrace.
Geological RegionThese remarkable islands dot a 50-square-mile tapestry of bays, harbors, and rivers that comprise the greater Boston Harbor basin. As part of both a State and National Park, this unique archipelago represents one of the few urban island park systems in America, where geological forces have created a playground of drumlins and rocky outcrops rising from the sea, shaped by glaciers and sculpted by centuries of Atlantic storms.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCampground is accessible only by boat or ferry, and private boaters must anchor off the island. Accessibility beyond this is not specified.
Sites SizeSites include options for tents and larger yurts, accommodating up to 4 people in tent sites and 6 people in yurts.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not explicitly detailed, though sites are likely clustered based on the limited area available on the islands.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose yurts for additional comfort. Ensure to bring sufficient water (1 gallon per person/day).
Best CampsitesYurts are highly rated by some visitors.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Limited to 14 cumulative days occupancy in any one park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsites are limited to four adults, or two adults and the children in their care.
Groups
Group camping details are not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTent-only sites and yurts are available on Peddocks Island. Each site includes a picnic table and grill.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is summer, but precise dates are not provided. Closed outside this season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on the platform www.bostonharborislands.org or by calling 617-223-8666.
Walk-in AvailabilityReserved campsites must be held until 8:00 am on the day after your scheduled arrival date. Walk-up availability not detailed.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Day of arrival cancellations require a phone call to the campground and will result in forfeiting the first night's camping fee plus the $10 cancellation fee.
Accomodation available
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The park offers several recreational activities including hiking, historic exploration, fishing, swimming, and kayaking. Specific islands like Spectacle Island feature lifeguarded beaches, while Peddocks Island has historic military structures.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available across the islands, allowing visitors to explore historic sites, tidal pools, and natural landscapes.Fishing
Fishing is permitted, but a marine fishing permit is required.Swimming
Swimming is allowed, with a lifeguarded beach available on Spectacle Island during the season.Boating
Both motorized and non-motorized boating are available. Private boaters can anchor offshore and use dinghies to access the islands.Beach activities
Beach activities are centered around Spectacle Island, which features a lifeguarded swimming beach.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led programs are offered, including the Winter Wander Program that highlights island history and natural features.Winter Activities
The Winter Wander Program is available during the colder months, providing access to the islands for exploration.Water Sports
Kayaking and other non-motorized water sports are supported.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are prohibited on campsites but permitted below the high tide mark.
- Quiet hours are strictly enforced from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsCampers must bring their own water and supplies. Composting toilets only; no showers. Campfires are not allowed on campsites but are permitted below the high tide mark.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 72%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Resident staff live on the island during the visiting season. Emergency services information is tied to mainland facilities, but specifics are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesExact dates for peak season are not specified, but implied to be summer months.
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to carry out all trash and recycling as no facilities for waste disposal are available on-site.
Proximity to water featuresThe islands are surrounded by Boston Harbor waters. Spectacle Island features a lifeguarded beach.
Common complaintsLimited amenities (no showers, no water at most sites). Accessibility restricted to ferry/private boats.
HostResident staff live on Peddocks Island during the visiting season, providing supervision and management.
Campground Map
30 Shipyard Drive, Hingham, Massachusetts, 02043, United States
Driving directionsFor directions to the ferries, schedules, and to purchase ferry tickets, visit Boston Harbor Cruises or call 617-227-4321. Private boaters may off-load passengers at the dock but must anchor off island, out of the channel fairway. Secure anchoring is the sole responsibility of the boat operator. A dinghy is available at the pier for access to anchored vessels. Private Boaters use USCG chart #13270.
Accessible only by ferry or private boat. Free parking is available at Hingham Shipyard upon check-in, where visitors receive a placard for display in their vehicles.Nearby places
Hingham (approx. 0 miles), Boston (approx. 15 miles), Quincy (approx. 10 miles)
Nearby supplies
Visitors must bring their own supplies. Access to fresh water is available only on Peddocks Island, and campers are required to bring one gallon of water per person per day.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Boston Harbor Islands Sp has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the uniqueness of camping on Peddocks Island, with particular praise for the Winter Wander Program and the island's historic structures.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Guests enjoyed the serene environment, historic exploration opportunities, and the availability of yurts as a slightly more comfortable alternative to tent camping.
Common Concerns
Some campers noted the limited amenities, such as the lack of showers and the need to bring their own water.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving early to coordinate ferry schedules and bringing all necessary supplies, especially water and food.
Seasonal Insights
The park is particularly popular during the summer for camping and swimming, while the Winter Wander Program is a highlight during colder months.
Camper Quotes
- 'Yurt camping is fun.' - Rob Bodley
- 'This is one of my favorite programs! You can take a boat 30 min to the island, and hang for a couple hours. During the summer, you can camp here or stay in a...
Show more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific reviews for particular campsites were provided.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility details are not explicitly reviewed by users.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed on the Boston Harbor Islands, and no specific pet-related user reviews were mentioned.
Last updated August 10, 2025