Salisbury State Park

For residents of Massachusetts looking to trade the bustle of the city for the rhythmic sound of the Atlantic, Salisbury Beach State Reservation stands as one of the most iconic coastal destinations in the Commonwealth. Spanning 521 acres along the northernmost edge of the state, this state-managed reservation offers a rare opportunity to camp directly adjacent to 3.8 miles of pristine sandy shoreline. Whether you are an avid RV traveler or a family looking for a memorable tent camping trip, Salisbury provides a unique barrier beach experience that captures the raw beauty of the North Shore landscape.

The campground is part of a larger ecosystem that includes the mouth of the Merrimack River and expansive salt marshes, making it a hotspot for both recreation and nature observation. During the summer months, the air is filled with the scent of salt spray and the laughter of families enjoying the sun. Even in the off-season, the park remains a local favorite for its scenic vistas and the chance to spot harbor seals sunning themselves on the jetties. As a state-run facility, it prioritizes accessibility and public enjoyment, ensuring that the treasures of the Massachusetts coastline are available for all to explore.

Salisbury Beach State Reservation is located at 1 Beach Road in Salisbury, Massachusetts, sitting right at the tip of the state before crossing into New Hampshire. For those traveling from within Massachusetts, the park is easily reached via Route 1A or by taking Exit 55 off Route 495 or Exit 58A off I-95. Its strategic location makes it an ideal destination for residents from the Greater Boston area, often reachable in under an hour depending on traffic. The park is designed with broad accessibility in mind, featuring paved roads and clear signage throughout the sprawling facility.

Once you arrive at the reservation, the transition from travel to relaxation is facilitated by a well-organized entry system. The park office serves as the central hub for check-ins, where staff help navigate visitors to their assigned loops. The campground is laid out much like a small seaside town, with lettered streets that make it easy to find your way around. Accessibility is a cornerstone of the reservation, providing wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking lots, and restrooms, ensuring that the joys of the beach are inclusive for everyone in the Massachusetts community.

• Large-scale camping with 484 individual sites designed for both tents and RVs.
• Full utility hookups at most sites, including water and 20/30/50 amp electrical service.
• Multiple comfort stations equipped with flush toilets and hot showers for resident convenience.
• On-site camp store providing essentials such as ice, bundles of firewood, and basic food items.
• Two boat ramps located on the Merrimack River side, facilitating motorized and non-motorized boating.
• Professional ranger station and on-site management to oversee park safety and guest assistance.
• A dedicated multi-lane dump station located near the entrance for RV travelers.
• Interpretive and educational programs led by park staff to engage visitors with local ecology.

• Unbeatable Ocean Access: Boardwalks over the dunes provide direct, short-walk access to a high-quality sandy beach on the Atlantic Ocean.
• Dual Waterfront Experiences: Campers can choose between the crashing waves of the Atlantic side and the calmer, kid-friendly waters of the Merrimack River side.
• Large Playground Area: A significant draw for families, the playground is well-maintained and provides a safe space for children to play near the beach.
• Wildlife and Bird Watching: The salt marshes and jetties offer prime opportunities to view harbor seals, piping plovers, and other local wildlife.
• Pavilion and Grilling Areas: Rentable pavilions with large group grills are perfect for hosted family get-togethers or community cook-outs.
• Biking Lanes and Helmet Safety: The paved park roads are popular for cycling, with a strong emphasis on safety and kid-friendly paths.
• Scenic Jetties: The southern end of the beach features iconic jetties that are popular for fishing and providing a dramatic view of the river meeting the sea.

To ensure a spot at this highly sought-after destination, reservations are required and can be made through the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) online portal. For specific questions regarding the facility or park conditions, you can reach out to the park office directly.

Address: 1 Beach Rd, Salisbury, MA 01952, USA

Phone: (978) 462-4481

Salisbury Beach State Reservation is worth choosing because it offers the quintessential Massachusetts summer experience at a value that is hard to find elsewhere on the coast. For families, the park is a dream destination. The presence of the Merrimack River beach—which has gentler currents and fewer waves than the ocean side—provides a perfect "natural wading pool" for younger children. Additionally, the park’s commitment to being "good for kids" is evident in the large playground and the seasonal movies and programs that make every weekend feel like a special event.

Furthermore, the convenience of the facilities makes camping here accessible even for those who prefer "glamping" or RV travel. Having reliable water and electric hookups at each site, combined with clean, heated bathroom facilities, takes the stress out of the outdoor experience. While the sites are arranged in a community-style layout rather than a secluded forest setting, this fosters a friendly and social atmosphere where neighbors often become friends. For those who value direct beach access, safety, and a variety of recreational activities from boating to sunbathing, Salisbury Beach State Reservation is a premier choice for a local Massachusetts getaway.