How much does camping cost at Salisbury Beach State Reservation?

Camping fees at Salisbury Beach State Reservation range from $22-$70/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Salisbury Beach State Reservation first-come first-served or reservation?

Salisbury Beach State Reservation accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Salisbury Beach State Reservation before I book?

Yes! Salisbury Beach State Reservation has 1 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Salisbury Beach State Reservation?

Salisbury Beach State Reservation is open Memorial Day to Labor Day.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Salisbury Beach State Reservation?

Yes, Salisbury Beach State Reservation has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Salisbury Beach State Reservation have?

Salisbury Beach State Reservation has 484 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Salisbury Beach State Reservation?

Yes, pets are allowed at Salisbury Beach State Reservation. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Salisbury Beach State Reservation?

Salisbury Beach State Reservation offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Salisbury Beach State Reservation?

Popular activities at Salisbury Beach State Reservation include Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Salisbury Beach State Reservation

Q: Can I have a campfire at Salisbury Beach State Reservation?

Fire policies at Salisbury Beach State Reservation: "Campfires permitted only in designated fire rings. Firewood must be purchased at the campground.". Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.33

101 reviews

State Reservation Road, SALISBURY, Massachusetts, 01952, United States

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

7 ft

Price

$22 - $70/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

484 campsites

Season

Open seasonally; off...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

7 ft

Price

$22 - $70/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

484 campsites

Season

Open seasonally; off...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Salisbury Beach State Reservation

$22.00 - $70.00 / night

Campsite Fees

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...

Standard Site Fee$25.00

Hookup Site Fee$10.00

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Reserve America

Provider

9784624481

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

State Reservation Road, SALISBURY, Massachusetts, 01952, United States

Salisbury Beach State Reservation

State Reservation Road, SALISBURY, Massachusetts, 01952, United States

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).

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.

Weather at Salisbury Beach State Reservation

Current alert: No current alerts noted in official or user-provided sources.

Best Time to Camp at Salisbury Beach State Reservation

Summer delivers the best conditions for beach camping, with daytime highs in the mid-70s to mid-80s°F and Atlantic water temperatures in the mid to upper 60s°F. This is peak season for swimming, boating, and beach activities, though expect crowds and noise on July and August weekends. The lack of shade becomes more noticeable during hot afternoons. Autumn brings thinner crowds and comfortable temperatures for seal watching and long beach walks. Winter transforms the beach into storm-watching territory, with harbor seals hauling out on rocks. Spring offers moderate temperatures and ocean breezes, but pack rain gear for Atlantic showers.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak beach/swimming season with best weather; high occupancy and crowds during Memorial–Labor Day.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day to Labor Day.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open seasonally; official content indicates closure between November and April.

About Salisbury Beach State Reservation

Salisbury Beach State Reservation sits on a barrier beach peninsula where the Merrimack River meets the Atlantic, offering 484 campsites with water and electric hookups. Sites come with picnic tables, fire rings, and pedestal grills. Fees range from $22-$70 per night. Fair warning: sites are extremely close together with no shade, and reviewers consistently compare the layout to a parking lot.

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.

Weather and SeasonsSummer delivers the best conditions for beach camping, with daytime highs in the mid-70s to mid-80s°F and Atlantic water temperatures in the mid to upper 60s°F. This is peak season for swimming, boating, and beach activities, though expect crowds and noise on July and August weekends. The lack of shade becomes more noticeable during hot afternoons. Autumn brings thinner crowds and comfortable temperatures for seal watching and long beach walks. Winter transforms the beach into storm-watching territory, with harbor seals hauling out on rocks. Spring offers moderate temperatures and ocean breezes, but pack rain gear for Atlantic showers.

ElevationSet at sea level where the rhythms of the tides govern daily life.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a living barrier beach system shaped constantly by sand, wind, and Atlantic waves. Windswept dunes anchored by beach grass stretch along 3.8 miles of sandy coastline. Behind the beach, salt marshes flood and drain with the tides, creating channels that connect to the Merrimack River estuary. The interplay between river and ocean has created a mosaic of habitats that support threatened shorebirds nesting in the dunes and harbor seals that return each winter to sun themselves on exposed rocks and sandbars. The elevation tops out at 7 feet.

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.

Scenic Views"Stunning ocean views and sandy beaches. Views across the Merrimack River to Plum Island."

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground does not feature hotel-style accommodations or cabins; it primarily caters to tent and RV campers.

Programs & ActivitiesNo information on cultural or educational programs is provided.

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

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 camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are arranged in rows on concrete slabs with minimal spacing between them. There's no shade anywhere in the campground. Reviewers consistently describe the setup as cramped, with neighbors extremely close.

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.

AccessibilityThe W street comfort station is accessible, and extended picnic tables for wheelchair use are available upon request.

Site 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.

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 SitesChoose a site carefully, as sizes vary significantly. Sites near Row X offer proximity to better facilities.

Best CampsitesRow X sits closest to the updated bathrooms with clean showers. Some RV sites require water hoses up to 100 feet long, so check your site assignment before arrival.

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Amenities available

Salisbury Beach State Reservation offers a comprehensive range of amenities for campers, including 484 campsites with water and 20/30/50 amp electric hookups. Comfort stations with accessible restrooms, flush toilets, and showers are available. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and pedestal grill. A dump station is provided for convenience. Near the beach, three comfort stations, over-the-dune boardwalks, a playground, and a rentable pavilion with picnic tables and a group grill enhance the experience. The campground also features two boat ramps on the Merrimack River for boating access and ample parking.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

I manage this campground

RV details

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

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSevere weather may lead to campground closures. Wildlife theft of unattended food is common. Rip tides are a danger at the beach.

Fire Policy"Campfires permitted only in designated fire rings. Firewood must be purchased at the campground."

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

Emergency ServicesEmergency services: Salisbury Fire Department and Salisbury Police Department are located within 2 miles. Anna Jaques Hospital in Newburyport is approximately 6 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingDumpsters are available for trash disposal. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.

Water Features"Two boat ramps on the Merrimack River. Beach access is available via boardwalks."

Camp HostHosts are unmentioned in authoritative or user reviews.

Cell CoverageNo specific information about cell phone reception quality is available, though the park's coastal location may influence coverage.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

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Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.3

101 reviews

Recommended

Salisbury Beach State Reservation is recommended, placing it in the top 40% 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

Based on 101 reviews

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.

Based on 101 reviews

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.

Based on 101 reviews

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.

Based on 101 reviews

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.

Based on 101 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fall and winter are noted for wildlife viewing, especially harbor seals. Summer sees crowded beaches and high campsite occupancy.

Based on 101 reviews

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...

Based on 101 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible comfort stations and picnic tables are available. Reviews do not provide further details on accessibility.

Based on 101 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are generally welcome, with leash rules enforced and a limit of four pets per site.

Based on 101 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

RV campers who want a true beachside base camp with full hookups (water, 20/30/50-amp electric) and actual Atlantic swimming will find this works well. Row X gets you closer to the better-maintained bathrooms, and the boardwalk beach access with lifeguards on duty makes it easy f

Skip if

Tent campers or anyone who values personal space should know the sites are separated by feet, not yards, reviewers consistently describe it as a parking lot. Couple that with poorly stocked bathrooms and a pattern of neighbor disputes and noise complaints that runs hotter here th

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