Salisbury Beach State Reservation
00 reviewState Reservation Road, SALISBURY, Massachusetts, 01952, United States
Salisbury Beach State Reservation
$22.00 - $70.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$10.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Massachusetts residents pay $22 per night; non-residents pay $70 per night, plus $4 water hookup fee, $6 electric hookup fee, and $3 surcharge to benefit the Salisbury Beach Trust Fund. Pavilion rentals cost $175 but require additional parking fees ($14 for MA residents, $40 for non-residents). A $4.50 non-refundable transaction fee applies to all reservations.
About this campground
Where the Merrimack River meets the Atlantic, Salisbury Beach State Reservation beckons with 484 well-appointed campsites spread across its sandy peninsula. Each site comes equipped with water and electric hookups, a picnic table, fire ring, and pedestal grill—everything you need for memorable evenings under the stars. Modern comfort stations dot the campground, with hot showers and flush toilets ensuring your comfort after long days of beach exploration. The W Street facility offers full accessibility, and convenient dumping stations serve RV travelers. While the sites bask in full sun—perfect for solar enthusiasts but pack that shade canopy—you're never more than a short walk from 3.8 miles of pristine Atlantic coastline where cool ocean breezes provide natural relief.
Salisbury Beach State Reservation provides diverse camping options, including 484 individual campsites with water and electric hookups and one group site. It accommodates both RVs and tents but no longer offers primitive camping.
Historical SignificanceThis dynamic barrier beach serves as nature's guardian, standing sentinel between the powerful Atlantic and the delicate Merrimack River estuary. More than just a recreational destination, Salisbury Beach plays a vital role in protecting inland areas from storms while providing sanctuary for endangered species that depend on this unique ecosystem. During the cooler months, the beach transforms into a viewing gallery where harbor seals haul out on exposed rocks, basking in the winter sun and delighting visitors with their playful antics—a reminder of the wild beauty that thrives where land meets sea.
Weather and SeasonsFour distinct seasons paint different portraits of this coastal paradise. Summer brings warm, sun-soaked days perfect for swimming and beachcombing, though afternoon humidity can settle in like a warm blanket. Come autumn, the crowds thin as comfortable temperatures and crisp air create ideal conditions for long beach walks and seal watching. Winter transforms the reservation into a serene, frost-kissed landscape where up to three inches of weekly snowfall dust the dunes, and brave souls bundle up for spectacular storm watching. Spring awakens the marsh grasses with moderate temperatures and refreshing ocean breezes, though pack rain gear for those dramatic Atlantic showers that roll through with regularity.
ElevationSet at sea level where the rhythms of the tides govern daily life.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the sound of waves rolling onto 3.8 miles of golden sand, where the Atlantic Ocean stretches endlessly to the horizon. This remarkable barrier beach landscape offers a front-row seat to nature's daily theater—from sunrise painting the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks to moonlight dancing on midnight waves. Behind the campground, salt marshes ripple like green seas, their winding channels revealing the ebb and flow of tides. Wind-sculpted dunes create natural boundaries, their beach grass waving in perpetual ocean breezes. The nearby Merrimack River estuary adds another dimension to the scenery, where fresh and salt waters mingle to create one of New England's most productive ecosystems.
Geological RegionSalisbury Beach State Reservation occupies one of Massachusetts' most dynamic geological features—a living barrier beach system where sand, wind, and waves constantly reshape the landscape. Formed where the mighty Merrimack River surrenders to the Atlantic, this peninsula of sand serves as both playground and protector. The interplay between river and ocean has created a mosaic of habitats: windswept dunes anchored by hardy beach grass, expansive salt marshes that flood and drain with the tides, and broad sandy beaches that shift with each storm. This ever-changing environment supports an impressive array of wildlife, from threatened shorebirds that nest in the dunes to the charismatic harbor seals that return each winter to sun themselves on exposed rocks and sandbars.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe W street comfort station is accessible, and extended picnic tables for wheelchair use are available upon request.
Sites SizeSites are generally standard, although some variation exists. One review mentions size differences between sites, and another notes the need for up to 100' water hoses for some RV sites.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites lack privacy, described as 'extremely close to one another' and 'like camping in a parking lot.' There is no shade, and most sites are on concrete slabs.
Total Campsites484 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Choose a site carefully, as sizes vary significantly. Sites near Row X offer proximity to better facilities."
Best CampsitesRow X is closest to the updated bathrooms with clean showers.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Check-out
11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
14 cumulative days between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Four adults, or two adults and their children.
Groups
The group site accommodates large groups but lacks hookups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in rows, including concrete slabs with minimal shade.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally; official content indicates closure between November and April.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via ReserveAmerica.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations required; no walk-in camping is allowed.
Cancellation PolicyCancelations require a $10 fee. Cancelations made on the day of arrival lose the first night’s fee plus the $10. Reserved sites are held until 8 AM the following day.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Salisbury Beach State Reservation offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including swimming, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby sandy beach and playground. Seasonal activities, such as wildlife observation during fall and winter, enhance the experience.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available, particularly in the Merrimack River, which borders the campground. Specific details on fish types or quality are not provided.Swimming
Swimming areas are accessible via boardwalks leading to the sandy Atlantic Ocean beach. Lifeguards are on duty beginning at 10 a.m. during the season.Biking
Biking is mentioned as a popular activity, and the area is accessible by bike.Boating
Two boat ramps on the Merrimack River allow for motorized and non-motorized boating activities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as robins, grackles, rabbits, sparrows, and chickadees can be observed. In fall and winter, harbor seals are often seen sunning on the jetty.Beach activities
The beach offers opportunities for sunbathing, beachcombing, and enjoying wide sandy shores. Activities like boogie boarding are allowed, unlike at some nearby beaches.Winter Activities
Harbor seal observation is noted as a winter activity.Water Sports
Boogie boarding is allowed, and the wide beach is suitable for water-based recreational activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- "Campfires permitted only in designated fire rings. Firewood must be purchased at the campground."
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSevere weather may lead to campground closures. Wildlife theft of unattended food is common. Rip tides are a danger at the beach.
Active alertsNo current alerts noted in official or user-provided sources.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 60%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services: Salisbury Fire Department and Salisbury Police Department are located within 2 miles. Anna Jaques Hospital in Newburyport is approximately 6 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day to Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingDumpsters are available for trash disposal. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water features"Two boat ramps on the Merrimack River. Beach access is available via boardwalks."
Common complaints"Bathrooms are often poorly maintained." "Sites lack shade and are very close together." "Campground is crowded and noisy." "Some comfort stations are outdated or lacking supplies like toilet paper."
HostHosts are unmentioned in authoritative or user reviews.
Campground Map
State Reservation Road, SALISBURY, Massachusetts, 01952, United States
Driving directionsFrom Rte. 95: Take exit 88A to Newburyport and the intersection with Rte. 110 East. Follow Rte. 110 East to Salisbury and the intersection with Rte. 1A North. Turn left on Rte. 1A. Then take the next right (Beach Rd) and follow it 2 miles to the Park entrance on the right. From Rte. 495: Take Rte. 495 to exit 119 and the intersection with Rte. 110. Follow Rte. 110 East to Salisbury and the intersection with Rte. 1A North. Follow Rte. 1A North approximately 2 miles to the park entrance on the right.
Roads are paved and accessible year-round, though the campground may close due to severe weather conditions. Barrier beach location may lead to closures in storms. No mention of seasonal road issues.Nearby places
Nearby cities include Salisbury (2 miles, approximately 5 minutes), Amesbury (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes), and Newburyport (6 miles, approximately 12 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are found in downtown Salisbury (2 miles): gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants. Camping essentials are available at the campground store, though prices are high (e.g., $28 for charcoal).
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Salisbury Beach State Reservation has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Salisbury Beach State Reservation are mixed, with highlights on its beautiful beach and convenient location but complaints about campsite proximity, lack of shade, and bathroom maintenance.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
The beach is often described as clean, spacious, and less crowded than nearby options. Campers appreciate the convenience of water, electric hookups, and proximity to the ocean.
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include the lack of privacy, poor bathroom maintenance, and the 'parking lot' feel of the campground. Some describe the sites as too close together, with little to no shade.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing long water hoses and power cords for RVs, avoiding peak times for showers, and purchasing firewood on-site due to state regulations.
Seasonal Insights
Fall and winter are noted for wildlife viewing, especially harbor seals. Summer sees crowded beaches and high campsite occupancy.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Beaches are great, a short walk from the outer sites and a medium walk from the inner ones.'
2. 'Two of the three bath houses are a bit run down.'
3. 'Most sites are concrete slabs with no...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Row X is highlighted for proximity to cleaner bathrooms. Size differences between sites are noted, and some require long hoses for hookups.
Accessibility Features
Accessible comfort stations and picnic tables are available. Reviews do not provide further details on accessibility.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are generally welcome, with leash rules enforced and a limit of four pets per site.
Last updated August 10, 2025