You can legally camp on public land in Massachusetts—but only in designated campgrounds and with advance reservations, not in unauthorized public spaces.
State Park and DCR Campgrounds
- Reservations Required: Camping in Massachusetts state parks and Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) campgrounds is allowed only with a valid reservation. Walk-in camping is not permitted; you must book your site in advance.
- Seasonal Limits: Most campgrounds limit stays to 14 cumulative days between Memorial Day and Labor Day at any one campground.
- Designated Sites Only: You must camp at your reserved site. Camping outside of designated areas is not allowed.
- Alcohol Prohibited: Alcohol is not allowed in state campgrounds.
- Quiet Hours: Quiet hours are enforced, generally from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
City and Local Public Land
- No Camping on Public Property: In cities like Boston, it is unlawful to camp or maintain a campsite on any public property or public right-of-way (including streets, sidewalks, schools, or parks) unless specifically authorized or during a period when shelter is unavailable.
- Local Regulations: Other municipalities may have similar ordinances. For example, Salem allows camping only in designated campgrounds and enforces strict rules regarding the number of nights and site occupancy.
Federal Land
- Limited Options: Massachusetts has little federal public land compared to western states. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) allows dispersed camping in some areas, but this is not a significant option in Massachusetts. Most camping is managed by the state or municipalities.
Summary Table
| Location Type | Legal to Camp? | Notes/Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| State Park/DCR Site | Yes, with reservation | Only in designated sites, no walk-ins, alcohol banned |
| City Public Property | No | Illegal unless authorized or shelter unavailable |
| Federal Public Land | Rarely | Very limited options in Massachusetts |
Key Takeaways
- You can legally camp in Massachusetts only at designated state park or DCR campgrounds with a reservation.
- Camping on city or municipal public land (like parks, sidewalks, or streets) is illegal unless specifically authorized or during declared shelter emergencies.
- Always check local regulations and reserve your site in advance to avoid fines or removal.
Sources:
- https://www.mass.gov/info-details/learn-about-campground-regulations
- https://www.mass.gov/camping-at-massachusetts-state-parks
- https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/camping
- https://www.greylockglass.com/massachusetts-dcr-announces-2025-camping-season-reservations-open-feb-19/