Loraine Campground At Harold Parker State Forest

4.30

69 reviews

133 Jenkins Road, ANDOVER, Massachusetts, 01810, United States

Featured in:Group Camping Massachusetts

Quick Facts

157 ft

Price

$17 - $54/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

91 campsites

Season

Open mid-May through...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

157 ft

Price

$17 - $54/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

91 campsites

Season

Open mid-May through...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation site

Official Website

Get Directions

Loraine Campground At Harold Parker State Forest

$17.00 - $54.00 / night

Campsite Fees

$17 for MA residents and $54 for non-residents, with an additional $6 fee for sites with electricity. There is also a $4.50 non-refundable...

Standard Site Fee$17.00

Hookup Site Fee$23.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider

9784757972

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What Campers Say

4.30

Satisfactory

Based on 69 reviews

1029 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanshowersspacioushiking

Some mention

noise

"Loraine Campground is praised for its natural beauty, spacious sites, and range of recreational opportunities. Reviews highlight clean facilities and a peaceful atmosphere, although some note occasional noise issues and the presence of bugs."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

133 Jenkins Road, ANDOVER, Massachusetts, 01810, United States

Loraine Campground At Harold Parker State Forest

133 Jenkins Road, ANDOVER, Massachusetts, 01810, United States

Driving directionsRoute I-93 to Exit 41, follow 125 North (toward Andover) for about 4 miles to the State Police Barracks (on right). Turn right on Harold Parker Road. At the end of Harold Parker Road, take a right onto Jenkins Road. The campground is approximately 1/2 mile on the right.

The campground is accessible via paved roads, but user reviews note that 'campground roads are a little worse for wear.'

Nearby places

Boston - 20 miles, 30 minutes driving.

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and essentials likely available in Andover (nearest city) or other nearby towns.

Best Time to Camp at Loraine Campground At Harold Parker State Forest

Experience the full spectrum of New England's natural beauty throughout the camping season. Summer brings warm, golden days with temperatures hovering around a comfortable 80°F – perfect for hiking forest trails or cooling off in nearby ponds. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a painter's palette of crimson maples and golden birches, with crisp air that makes campfire gatherings even more magical. While winter's freezing temperatures typically close the camping season, the snow-dusted landscape offers a preview of the serene beauty that awaits your return in spring.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season; warm days (~80°F), ideal for hiking, fishing and paddling.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Open through October; classic New England fall colors and trail access.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring fishing is a highlight with stocked ponds; trails reopen for hiking.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed outside camping season (open mid-May to October).

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day to Labor Day.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open mid-May through October.

About Loraine Campground At Harold Parker State Forest

Nestled within 3,000 acres of pristine New England forest, Loraine Campground at Harold Parker State Forest invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. Here, towering hemlocks and white pines create a natural cathedral above 91 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay – from crackling fire rings perfect for evening s'mores to convenient water spigots and modern shower facilities. Whether you're pitching a tent under the starlit canopy or parking your RV among the hardwoods, this woodland retreat offers the perfect balance of wilderness immersion and modern amenities.

The campground supports a variety of camping styles, including tent, RV, and group camping. Some sites offer electrical and water hookups.

Historical SignificanceLong before the first tent was pitched here, the Pentacook people called these forests home, living in harmony with the land for countless generations. Around 1650, English settlers arrived, drawn by the area's abundant timber and clear streams. As you explore the woodland trails, you might stumble upon moss-covered stone foundations of 18th-century homesteads or discover the remnants of an old sawmill that once hummed with activity. These silent sentinels of the past add layers of mystery and wonder to your camping adventure, reminding us that we're just the latest chapter in this forest's long and storied history.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of New England's natural beauty throughout the camping season. Summer brings warm, golden days with temperatures hovering around a comfortable 80°F – perfect for hiking forest trails or cooling off in nearby ponds. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a painter's palette of crimson maples and golden birches, with crisp air that makes campfire gatherings even more magical. While winter's freezing temperatures typically close the camping season, the snow-dusted landscape offers a preview of the serene beauty that awaits your return in spring.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers and perfected by time. The campground's diverse ecosystem weaves together dense stands of hardwoods, aromatic hemlocks, and majestic white pines, creating a verdant tapestry that changes with every season. Massive granite outcrops emerge from the forest floor like sleeping giants, offering natural climbing adventures for the curious. Hidden ponds mirror the sky through breaks in the canopy, while mysterious swampy hollows harbor unique plants and provide sanctuary for wildlife. Every trail promises discovery, from sun-dappled glades to shadowy hemlock groves where time seems to stand still.

Geological RegionThis remarkable landscape tells a story written in stone and soil by massive glaciers thousands of years ago. As these ice sheets retreated, they left behind a wonderland of rolling hills and valleys, dotted with kettle ponds that now reflect the forest canopy. Glacial erratics – enormous boulders carried here from distant mountains – rest throughout the forest like pieces of a geological puzzle. The interplay of rocky ridges and low-lying wetlands creates diverse microclimates that support an incredible variety of plant and animal life, making every hike an exploration through different worlds within the same forest.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

1:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Check-out

11:00 AM.

Stay Limit

Campers and/or camping equipment are limited to 14 cumulative days occupancy in any one park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Occupancy is limited to four adults, or two adults and the children in their care.

Groups

Group sites are available and are described as quiet and clean. No specific details on capacity are provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are spread out to offer privacy, with groupings for friends or families. Amenities at each site include a picnic table, fire ring, and pedestal grill.

Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made at the official Massachusetts DCR website or via 978-475-7972.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-in camping allowed; reservations are required.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations and changes are subject to a $10 fee. Day-of-arrival cancellations require a phone call and result in the loss of the first night’s camping fee plus the $10 fee.

AccessibilityAccessible comfort stations and restrooms are available. Sites are designed to be inclusive for individuals with mobility challenges.

Site SizeSites vary in size, with some being large enough to accommodate both a vehicle and a tent comfortably. Reviews highlight that most sites are 'massive,' although some lack gravel.

PrivacyPrivacy levels differ. Some sites are spacious and secluded, with trees providing separation, while others are closer together, especially near the entrance where traffic noise is more noticeable.

Total Campsites91 campsites

Recommended SitesReserve sites away from the entrance to avoid road noise. Sites near bathhouses may experience noise from fans.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

This campground is highly regarded for its wide range of recreational activities that include hiking, fishing, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife observation. The 3,000-acre forest features over 35 miles of trails.

HikingHiking is a major draw, with over 35 miles of trails and logging roads. Trails are suitable for both short and long hikes, and are praised for their beginner-friendly loops. One user noted, 'The trails are great for beginners and often are fine to hike all year round.'

FishingFishing is allowed in local ponds, with Berry Pond being noted for its stocked rainbow trout in the spring. Other species include bass, perch, and crappie. One reviewer stated, 'Gorgeous state park with plenty of ponds to go around. Lots of fish.'

SwimmingSwimming areas are available, including a small beach enclosure. However, reviews regarding water quality are mixed. One user noted trash and debris near the beach area.

BikingMountain biking trails are available with varying difficulty levels. Trails are described as well-maintained and suitable for casual riders.

BoatingNon-motorized boating such as canoeing and kayaking is allowed on the ponds. A reviewer mentioned enjoying canoeing and exploring islands in the lakes.

Wildlife viewingOpportunities to observe local wildlife such as deer, birds, and beavers are abundant. One reviewer mentioned spotting a beaver at Berry Pond.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUsers report snakes in field pond and the potential danger of fire pits under low tree branches. Nearby gun range and airport may cause noise disturbances.

Fire PolicyCampfires must be extinguished by midnight. Firewood transportation is prohibited; bundles must be purchased onsite for $7.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesState Police Barracks - approximately 4 miles away on Route 125 North.

Trash & RecyclingNo detailed information is provided about trash and recycling facilities.

Water Features11 ponds are available for non-motorized boating and fishing. Berry Pond is stocked with rainbow trout in the spring.

Camp HostPark rangers and staff receive mixed reviews; some commend their friendliness while others criticize them as unhelpful or rude.

Weather at Loraine Campground At Harold Parker State Forest

Reviews

4.3

69 reviews

Satisfactory

Loraine Campground At Harold Parker State Forest is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Loraine Campground is praised for its natural beauty, spacious sites, and range of recreational opportunities. Reviews highlight clean facilities and a peaceful atmosphere, although some note occasional noise issues and the presence of bugs.

Review Summaries

Based on 69 reviews

What Campers Love

Spacious campsites, clean showers and bathrooms, friendly staff, great hiking and fishing opportunities, and beautiful natural surroundings.

Based on 69 reviews

Common Concerns

Noise from nearby roads and facilities like the bathhouse, issues with campsite setup (e.g., fire pits under low-hanging branches), and occasional debris near swimming areas.

Based on 69 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Book sites away from the entrance to avoid traffic noise. Bring plenty of bug spray and consider USB lighting or solar panels for convenience. Check the site layout before reserving to ensure it...

Based on 69 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with fishing and hiking being key activities. Spring offers excellent fishing opportunities with stocked ponds. Winter hikes are also appreciated, though cold...

Based on 69 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'This was my first time camping and I'm in love with this place!' 2. 'Berry pond is stocked with rainbow trout in the spring.' 3. 'The trails are great for beginners and often are fine to hike all...

Based on 69 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #81 is noted for its proximity to water and bathrooms and is described as quiet and peaceful. Lower-numbered sites near the entrance may experience more road noise.

Based on 69 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible restrooms and comfort stations are available. No specific user feedback on accessibility beyond general mentions.

Based on 69 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed with a limit of four per site. Reviewers appreciated the campground's dog-friendly policies, with one stating, 'My dog Daisy and I have been staying there off and on since it opened...

Based on 69 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026

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