Best Camping in New England

While backyard camping never goes out of style, sometimes it’s fun to pack up the tent, lawn chairs, and cooler and head for the great outdoors. Check out some of our favorite camping spots from the 2011 and 2012 Best of New England list, and share your own in the comments section!

BEST PRIMITIVE CAMPING
Stephen Phillips Memorial Preserve – Oquossoc, ME
When you want to really escape, make a reservation, then grab a tent and canoe and head for this 400-acre preserve, with primitive sites dotting the shoreline and islands of Mooselookmeguntic Lake.
Stephen Phillips Road. 207-864-2003

BEST REFUGE BY A REFUGE
Campbell’s Bay Campground – West Swanton, VT
Canoeing and kayaking are popular pastimes at this Lake Champlain complex bordering a 7,500-acre wildlife refuge, but fishing reigns supreme. The lakefront cottages offer basic but comfortable accommodations; boat rentals are available.
200 Campbell Bay Road. 802-868-7258; campbellsbayvermont.com

BEST ISLAND CAMPING
Martha’s Vineyard Family Campground, Vineyard Haven, MA
The dappled shade of the campsites on the island’s sole campground creates an air of summer idyll for tenters and RV drivers alike. For full immersion in the outdoor experience, bring a bike and pedal everywhere on the island. Also available: a few one- and two-bedroom cabins to rent.
569 Edgartown Road. 508-693-3772; campmv.com

BEST URBAN CAMPING
North Beach Campground – Burlington, VT
Although sites are small, this campground overlooking Lake Champlain is just a short hop to town via the adjacent bike path.
60 Institute Road. 802-862-0942; enjoyburlington.com

BEST CANALSIDE CAMPING
Bourne Scenic Park – Bourne, MA
Families have been coming to this woodsy enclave for idylls on the Cape Cod Canal in the shadow of the Bourne Bridge for more than 50 years. Two in-ground pools offer freshwater swimming, and saltwater beaches are only a short bike ride away. Catch dinner by fishing off the rocks.
370 Scenic Highway. 508-759-7873; bournescenicpark.com