Camping at Salisbury Beach State Reservation
Location and Access
Salisbury Beach State Reservation is located on the Atlantic Ocean in the northeastern part of Massachusetts. The area provides access to a long sandy beach that is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. The entrance to Salisbury Beach State Reservation is at 1 Beach Rd, Salisbury, MA 01952. It is easily accessible by car, and there is ample parking available, although during peak season it can become crowded.
Camping Facilities
The state reservation includes a campground with over 400 campsites available for tents and RVs. The sites usually include amenities such as:
- Electrical hookups
- Water hookups
- Picnic tables
- Fire rings
There are also restroom facilities with showers for campers. Some of the campsites boast ocean views, and all are within walking distance to the beach.
Reservations and Fees
Camping at Salisbury Beach State Reservation is very popular, particularly in the summer months, so advance reservations are strongly recommended. Reservations can be made online through Reserve America or by phone. There are fees for camping which vary depending on the type of campsite and the time of year. There may also be a reservation fee when booking a campsite.
Beach Activities
Salisbury Beach offers a variety of activities, including:
- Swimming, with lifeguards on duty during the summer months
- Fishing, both from the shore and the jetty
- Boating, with a boat ramp providing access to the Merrimack River and the Atlantic Ocean
- Picnicking, with plenty of picnic tables and pavilions
Additionally, there are playgrounds and a boardwalk with concessions during the tourist season.
Rules and Regulations
To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, there are certain rules that must be followed:
- Alcohol is prohibited
- Open fires are only allowed in designated fire rings
- Pets are allowed in the campground but are restricted on the beach during certain times of the year
- Quiet hours are typically enforced to ensure a peaceful environment
Wildlife and Environment
Carrying out a "leave no trace" ethic is important at Salisbury Beach to protect the local wildlife, which includes various species of birds and marine life. The dunes and marshes also require preservation, so staying on designated paths and respecting nature is important.
Seasonal Availability
The camping season at Salisbury Beach State Reservation typically runs from mid-May through mid-October, varying each year. The beach itself is open year-round, but amenities such as lifeguards and concessions are only available during the summer months.
Local Attractions
The surrounding area offers additional attractions such as the Salisbury Beach Boardwalk, the nearby town of Newburyport with its shops and restaurants, and the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, which is excellent for bird watching and nature walks.
For the most up-to-date information regarding camping at Salisbury Beach State Reservation and to ensure a successful camping trip, always check the official Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) website or contact the park directly before planning your visit.
