Salisbury Beach State Reservation
Massachusetts’ Premier Beach Camping
Salisbury Beach offers 3.8 miles of sandy beach and camping right on the Atlantic Ocean—the North Shore’s best beachside camping!
Camping
| Type | Sites | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 484 | Many oceanfront |
| Season | Mid-April – Columbus Day | |
Reserve: reserveamerica.com. Summer fills fast!
Beach
3.8 miles of sandy beach. Swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
Is there oceanfront camping?
Yes! Many sites are right on or near the ocean. Book early for summer!
Things to Do
Massachusetts state parks span from the wild outer beaches of Cape Cod and the islands to the forested Berkshire hills and Connecticut River Valley. Activities include swimming at ocean and freshwater beaches, hiking through deciduous and mixed forests, fishing in coastal waters and stocked ponds, camping in woodland settings, biking paved and gravel rail-trails, kayaking coastal marshes and inland rivers, rock climbing at select parks, birding along the Atlantic Flyway, and exploring rich historical sites spanning from the Pilgrims to the American Revolution. The Cape Cod National Seashore and nearby state parks offer world-class beach experiences.
Best Time to Visit
Massachusetts parks follow classic New England seasonality. Summer (June–August) is peak season for ocean and lake swimming — Cape beaches are busiest July through August. Fall (September–October) brings legendary New England foliage, peaking early October in the Berkshires and mid-to-late October closer to the coast. Spring (April–May) offers wildflowers, rushing streams, and fewer crowds. Winter provides peaceful forest hiking, cross-country skiing, and dramatic winter ocean scenery at coastal parks. Cape Cod and the Islands are most crowded from Memorial Day through Labor Day — consider shoulder season visits for a more relaxed experience.
Visitor Tips
Massachusetts state parks and forests charge a parking fee ($5–$20) at most locations during peak season. A Massachusetts Parks Pass ($60/year) covers parking at all DCR-managed properties. Beach parks fill early on summer weekends — arrive before 10 AM or risk being turned away. Camping reservations are made through ReserveAmerica. Cell service is unreliable in many rural parks, especially in the Berkshires. Ticks carrying Lyme disease are prevalent — wear long pants, use DEET, and check thoroughly after every hike.
Explore More Massachusetts State Parks
Salisbury Beach State Reservation is one of many outstanding state parks in Massachusetts. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Massachusetts guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
