There’s a lot to love about Massachusetts. Just to name a few: its history, the bay, seafood, and all of the glorious nature you’ll find there. Another nice thing is its size. It’s very easy to see a lot of Massachusetts over the course of a single vacation. And it’s even easier to do so from an RV.

Seeing Massachusetts via RV allows you to take in everything from its inland forests and gorgeous sights to its busier areas around the harbor and all of its quaint fishing towns along the coast. Your options for areas to stay in are both eye-catching and full of recreational activities. Roll through a few fishing villages, enjoy some fresh lobster, then park your RV in a state park and camp all night. Doesn’t that sound like a great day?

Why Renting an RV in Massachusetts Is the Way to Go

Massachusetts by RV lets you see and experience things you wouldn’t get to otherwise. You can stay right in the thick of the natural surroundings, and wake up to gorgeous views of the ocean, or a deciduous forest, all without paying an arm and a leg for hotel rooms.

More than that, Massachusetts is a pretty forgiving state for RVs. Because it’s on the smaller side, you’re able to see a lot within a shorter amount of time. That means you may be able to post up at a couple of different parks and enjoy yourselves for longer periods—which, in turn, means moving the RV less.

Rent an RV

There are other perks to renting an RV in Massachusetts as well. You can get out on the road faster than you can buy one. (Don’t get us wrong. If you want to buy one, we’ve got your back.) You don’t have to worry about the general upkeep costs associated with one, or storing it in the offseason. And best of all, after you have the time of your life RVing through Massachusetts, you’ll know for sure just how interested you are in owning one.

10 Astounding Places to See in Massachusetts in Your Rental RV

Massachusetts has a ton to see from the seat of your rental RV, and with its size, it’s easy to take it all in. That said, if you’re on a limited timeframe (and most vacations are), you have to prioritize which locations you want to visit. We’ve put together a list of 10 places that should be on your vacation hit list.

The Berkshires

The Berkshires is a region known as “highlands.” They’re a continuation of the Green Mountains and run through several counties in Massachusetts. They’re an extremely popular vacation and tourist spot thanks to the scenic views, outdoor recreation, and a vibrant arts scene.

For the outdoors, The Berkshires has everything from adventure tourism (think zip-lining and white water rafting) to hiking, biking, golf, and even water sports. There are dozens of shops to scratch that souvenir itch, and for your artsy family members: The Berkshire Museum and Clark Art Institute.

RVs near The Berkshires

Learn more about The Berkshires.

The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum

What’s a vacation to Massachusetts without a little nonsensical Seussian side trip? Obviously named for Theodor Geisel (a.k.a. Dr. Seuss), the museum is devoted to the man who helped change the way we learn to read and to all of the characters he created.

The entire first floor of the museum is dedicated to interactive exhibits where families can play games and write their own Seussian stories. Some exhibits look at Geisel’s ties to Springfield, Massachusetts. On the upper floor, you can find a recreation of Seuss’s studio (complete with his actual couch and drawing supplies). Plus, there’s even more art that’s never been showcased to the public before. It’s wondrous, incredible, fantabulous to see, and you can get there in a rental RV. Learn more about The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum.

RVs near The Dr. Seuss Museum

Cape Cod National Seashore

You’ve no doubt heard plenty about Cape Cod and its glorious homes, but you may not realize Cape Cod is actually a national seashore. It’s a remarkably diverse area and offers plenty for visitors to see and enjoy. That all starts with 40 miles of sandy white beaches and several historic, iconic lighthouses. The seashore also has marshes, uplands, and even wild cranberry bogs. There are loads of hiking trails that get you up close and personal with nature. Hunting and fishing are both allowed in season and with a proper license. You can enjoy the beaches all day long, and there are several programs where you can tour the park with a ranger—either by canoe, kayak, snorkel or on foot.

RVs near Cape Cod

Race Point Beach

Race Point Beach is one of the top beaches in Cape Cod. Its wide beaches stretch off toward the point of the Cape, and behind it sits picturesque dunes. The Province Lands Bike Trail runs eight miles through the beach and onwards and is great fun for exerting some energy after sunbathing all day. The Race Point Lighthouse sits near the beach as well and makes for great sightseeing. Out in the water, it’s not uncommon to see dolphins, whales, and even the occasional Great White Shark. The landscape is beautiful, and there’s the Old Harbor Lifesaving Station that’s open every day.

RVs near Race Point Beach

Learn more about Race Point Beach.

Halibut Point State Park

The site of a former granite quarry, Halibut Point State Park is now a hotspot for outdoor recreation that’s also full of history. The quarry has since filled with water and sits 60 feet deep at its lowest point. The views of the ocean from many cliffs are unparalleled. It’s also a tidal pool, which plays home to organisms like starfish, clams, and sea cucumbers.

In World War II, the area was armed to protect the bay. During that time, a 60-foot fire watchtower was built. Today, you can climb that tower and get spectacular views of the ocean. In fact, on clear days, you can see islands located off the coast of Maine. Otherwise, enjoy the trail system, and go for a fun hike. Learn more about Halibut Point State Park.

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Minute Man National Historical Park

Massachusetts played a significant role in the American Revolution. Minute Man National Historical Park is a dedication to the opening battle of the Revolutionary War. The living history reenactments are an immersive way to learn about life during the Revolutionary War and explore the battlegrounds where our country won its independence. The Wayside, a building on the site, was home to three noted American authors: Louisa May Alcott, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Margaret Sidney. Also, don’t miss the Minute Man statue, which was unveiled in 1875 at the centennial celebration. You can even walk Battle Road, the same one that our embattled farmers marched when they were called to arms.

RVs near Minute Man National Historical Park

Learn more about Minute Man National Historical Park.

Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

Consisting of a whopping 34 islands, the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area offers something for everyone. Perfect for day trips away from the RV, ferry trips will take you to various islands, so you can explore what each one has to offer. Some islands are havens for rest and relaxation, while others are family-friendly destinations full of exciting recreational activities.

For example, Georges Island houses a Civil War-era fort and is a haven for history enthusiasts. Lovells Island is a secluded beach with hiking trails and places to camp, giving you a unique view of the harbor at night. Spectacle Island has beautiful beaches for swimming, and have a picnic at any spot along the island. Spend a few hours or a few days, as there are plenty of islands to see. Learn more about Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area.

RVs near Boston Harbor Islands Recreation Area

Good Harbor Beach

In the coastal town of Gloucester (pronounced glah-ster), you’ll find Good Harbor Beach. It—and several other beaches in the area—are world-renowned vacation places. Full of white sand and pristine, a trip to Good Harbor Beach is a full, enjoyable day on the water. At low tide, it’s possible to walk out to Salt Island, a rocky island that’s great for exploring. The waves come in strong at Good Harbor Beach, and while surfing is prohibited, boogie boarding and body surfing are both fair game. This (and other Gloucester beaches) tends to fill up fast during the busy season, and parking is $30 per car during the week. It’s a good idea to get there early, and enjoy it all day.

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Aquinnah Cliffs

Aquinnah is a town located on the famed Martha’s Vineyard, an island known for its wealth and splendor. Near the town, you’ll find Aquinnah Cliffs, gorgeous red clay cliffs carved by glaciers millions of years ago. These grandiose formations are a popular tourist spot. Walk along the beach to get up close to them, or climb the trail up for an unbelievable view of the water and the Gay Head Lighthouse. Aquinnah and its cliffs are celebrated as part of the Wampanoag culture, and because of that, some of the areas are considered hallowed and off-limits. Be respectful of both the culture and the precautions put in place to deter erosion.

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Salem

Salem is a quaint coastal town in Massachusetts but has a dark history. As the home of the Salem Witch Trials, over 300 people were accused of witchcraft in 1692 and 1693, and 19 of them were put to death. Despite that, today Salem is a vibrant town that celebrates and educates with its history. Visiting Salem gives you a chance to learn about the historical events that happened there, but there’s more to Salem than its (sometimes kitschy) witch museums. There’s the House of the Seven Gables, made famous by resident Nathanial Hawthorne. Visit Salem Willows, a seaside park with 35 acres of land and a rocky shore. There’s also a rich maritime history in Salem, and you’ll find museums and a replica of a 1790s ship moored in the harbor as well.

RVs near Salem

That said, because of the historical value of many of the parks and recreational areas, not all locations allow overnight camping. Worry not, though: there are usually many RV parks or resorts located nearby that will gladly find you a spot with full hookups. In many cases, these RV resorts are right next to the action, so you might still feel like you’re in the park.

Massachusetts lists the parks that allow you to camp overnight (including which have full RV hookups). Good Sam also maintains a list of RV camps and resorts throughout the state.

Things to Know About Renting an RV in Massachusetts

Things to Note About Camping in Massachusetts

Massachusetts is gorgeous to visit in the summer and especially in the fall. That said, it’s very popular during those times as well, and campsites can fill up. It’s highly recommended (and sometimes required) to make reservations at the campgrounds before you go.

Bugs can also be pretty monstrous in the area. Bring repellent to enjoy the outdoors, and if you’re visiting a beach or the bay, remember to wear sunscreen.

Dry Camping or Boondocking in Massachusetts

Some advanced RVers enjoy dry camping or boondocking. It’s a method of camping in your RV, but without using hookups of any kind. For power, you use a generator. For water, you’re reliant on what’s in your tank. It’s a different challenge than camping at a spot with full hookups.

In many states, you can camp for free on public lands, like those overseen by the Bureau of Land Management. Massachusetts doesn’t have much in that way, but many big box stores and restaurants will allow RVers to overnight in their parking lots.

Also, there are rest stops along some of the main interstates that will allow you to boondock overnight in the parking lot. Additionally, campsites that are without hookups for RVs will often let RVers stay there, which is an excellent option for someone who wants to boondock but doesn’t have a lot of experience doing it.

Renting an RV in Massachusetts