Camp Nihan
00 review131 Walnut Street, Saugus, Massachusetts, 01906, United States
Camp Nihan
$45.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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$7.00
Camping at Camp Nihan is only possible through a Special User Permit, which includes a $45 non-refundable application fee.
About this campground
Nestled within 65 acres of pristine New England woodland, Camp Nihan beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic escape from urban life. This treasured retreat offers cozy group cabins and secluded tent-only sites, where families and friends gather to create lasting memories. Winding nature trails lead adventurers through diverse ecosystems, while history buffs can explore centuries-old landmarks just minutes away. When wanderlust strikes, the vibrant city of Boston awaits as an easy day trip, offering the perfect balance between wilderness tranquility and urban exploration.
Camp Nihan offers group camping cabins and tent-only sites, catering to families and groups seeking a secluded and nature-focused experience.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time and discover the rich heritage that surrounds Camp Nihan. Just a short journey away, the remarkable Saugus Iron Works National Landmark stands as a testament to America's industrial beginnings, where colonists first forged the tools that built a nation. This living museum offers visitors a chance to witness blacksmithing demonstrations and explore reconstructed buildings from the 1640s, connecting campers to the pioneering spirit that shaped New England's character.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full tapestry of New England's changing seasons at Camp Nihan. Summer arrives with warm, sun-dappled days perfect for swimming and hiking, while autumn transforms the forest into a brilliant canvas of reds, oranges, and golds. Winter brings a hushed beauty to the landscape, with snowflakes dusting the evergreens and frost creating magical patterns on the pond's surface. Spring awakens the campground with blooming wildflowers and the return of migrating birds. Throughout the year, gentle rains nourish the lush forest, creating an ever-changing natural symphony.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of Camp Nihan creates natural amphitheaters and cozy hollows throughout the property, offering varied microclimates and diverse camping experiences across its woodland landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living ecosystem where ancient forests meet tranquil wetlands. The centerpiece of Camp Nihan is its crystal-clear, spring-fed pond, reflecting towering trees and open skies. The melodic Saugus River meanders through the property, its banks lined with cattails and wildflowers. Early risers might spot white-tailed deer grazing in misty meadows, while patient observers can witness great blue herons fishing in the shallows. Red foxes dart through the underbrush, mallards paddle across quiet waters, and playful river otters splash in the river's gentle currents, creating an enchanting wildlife sanctuary.
Geological RegionCamp Nihan's remarkable 65-acre landscape showcases the diverse beauty of Massachusetts' coastal plain ecosystem. Here, dense woodland forests transition seamlessly into vibrant marshlands, creating a mosaic of habitats shaped by millennia of natural forces. The property's crown jewel, a pristine spring-fed pond, bubbles up from underground aquifers, while the meandering Saugus River has carved its course through the terrain over countless generations. This unique convergence of forest, wetland, and waterway creates an ecological crossroads where great blue herons stalk the shallows, mallards nest among the reeds, foxes hunt along forest edges, white-tailed deer browse in clearings, and river otters play in the flowing waters.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible flush toilets and showers. However, no specific details about additional accessibility features are available.
Sites SizeCabins accommodate up to 10-12 people, while tent-only sites have a maximum capacity of 4 people.
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCabins accommodate 10-12 people; tents are limited to two per site, with a maximum of four adults or two adults and accompanying children.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Campers are 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 their children.
Groups
Group cabins accommodate up to 10-12 people. Each group site requires an adult or counselor present.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutGroup cabins and tent-only sites are available. Cabins include bunk beds and heating by pellet stoves.
Open and Closed SeasonCamping is limited to specific seasons; only available from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are made through the Massachusetts State Parks Special Use Permit system.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not mentioned; all reservations require the Special User Permit application process.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. For day-of-arrival cancellations, a phone call is required, and the first night's camping fee is forfeited along with the $10 cancellation fee. Reserved campsites are held until 8:00 AM on the day after the scheduled arrival date.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Camp Nihan offers a variety of activities, geared towards nature enthusiasts and families. These include hiking, wildlife viewing, and recreational opportunities within the cabins such as board games and books.
Hiking
Visitors can hike to nearby Breakheart Reservation for swimming, more hiking, and visitor center services. Trails within Camp Nihan itself provide opportunities to explore the 65-acre woodland and marsh ecosystem.Fishing
Fishing is available within the facility, but no details on specific species or fishing conditions are provided.Wildlife viewing
The facility's mix of woodland, marsh, and a spring-fed pond creates ideal habitats for heron, mallards, foxes, deer, and river otters.Beach activities
While there are no beaches on-site, nearby Breakheart Reservation may provide beach-like experiences during hikes.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood must be purchased on-site, and no open flame cooking is allowed inside or on cabin decks.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include wildlife encounters and limited reliability of electrical wattage in cabins. Firewood must be purchased onsite.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 60%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are not explicitly listed; however, the campground's phone number is provided (781-231-1203) for inquiries.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day to Labor Day
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned, though visitors are likely required to manage their own waste.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground includes a spring-fed pond and the Saugus River running through the property.
Common complaintsComplaints include limited parking availability, prohibition of pets, and restrictions on open flame cooking.
Campground Map
131 Walnut Street, Saugus, Massachusetts, 01906, United States
Driving directionsFrom Route 1 in Saugus, take Route 129 West, Walnut Street toward city of Wakefield. The entrance to the Camp will be on your left 2/10ths of a mile after the first traffic light. Look for a small green sign. Continue on the gravel road and park in the first parking lot or as instructed by DCR staff. Please drive slowly. From Route 129 take Route 1 South, Boston Exit and then follow the directions for Route 1 above.
The campground is accessible via paved roads (Route 1 and Route 129) and has a gravel road leading to the entrance. There are no seasonal closures explicitly mentioned, but drivers are advised to navigate carefully.Nearby supplies
Supplies locations are not explicitly listed. Visitors are advised to plan ahead and bring essentials.
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Last updated August 10, 2025