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Winter Camping Guide For Boston

The traditional camping season is over, but winter camping has just begun. Don't let the cold scare you away. Boston's fun still abounds. Learn the ropes, buy your gear, and test your skills at these winter camping spots that are perfect for colder weather.
Hilton's Tent City
(Photo Credit: Hilton's Tent City)

Hilton's Tent City
272 Friend St.
Boston, MA 02114
(617) 227-9242
hiltonstentcity.com

Hilton's Tent City offers everything you'd need for winter camping. Choose from a huge selection of apparel - from the base layer up to a winter coat or poncho. Find just the right sleeping bag, and add a thermal sleep liner for the cold temperatures at night. Get a small tent for two or a shelter for the whole family. For an extra deal, check out the Bargain Basement, which offers a limited quantity of sale items. Order online and receive free shipping on orders more than $50.

Related: Boston's Best Indoor Tracks

Village Green
(Photo Credit: Village Green)

Village Green
228 Sturbridge Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
(413) 245-3504
villagegreencampground.com

Click here to view rates.

This Berkshire campground is the perfect place to do some weekend winter camping. Relax by the fire, or bundle up and explore the open fields. Pack your snowshoes or cross country skis if there is snow, and make your way around the site. Return to take a shower in the heated bathhouse, or stop by the laundromat to freshen up your gear. Both facilities are open weekends during the winter. Although winter guests are seasonal, all regular campground rules apply.

Snow Camping
(Photo credit: NORBERT MILLAUER/AFP/Getty Images)

Atlantic Oaks
3700 State Highway 6
Eastham, MA 02642
(508) 255-1437
atlanticoaks.com

Click here to view rates.

This modern campground, located on the lower Cape, is perfect for RV owners who enjoy winter camping with all of the luxuries of home. Amenities include cable TV, free WiFi and hot showers. Open campfires are allowed until 11 p.m., so feel free to toast marshmallows and enjoy the fresh air. Propane is also available daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Site reservations are required during winter months, so online requests are encouraged. Make online reservations here.

snow camping
(Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images for Laureus)

REI
279 Salem St.
Reading, MA 01867
(781) 944-5103
rei.com

Price: free

If you are new to winter camping and prefer to be prepared for the adventure ahead, consider attending the Winter Camping Basics course at REI Reading. You will learn everything from basic planning and choosing the correct gear to setting up for your overnight stay. Register online here, as space is limited to 30 people. While at REI, stock up on all your outdoor gear for any hiking, snowshoeing or skiing you might do while camping. Don't forget a warm sleeping bag for those chilly nights.

Snow camping
(Photo credit: NORBERT MILLAUER/AFP/Getty Images)

Ponkapoag Camp
Blue Hills Reservation
Milton, MA 02186
(781) 961-7007
ponkapoagcamp.org

Click here to view rates.

Ponkapoag Camp is located along the Ponkapoag Pond inside of the Blue Hills Reservation. This minimalist campground will provide a rustic experience, which helps to preserve the area. The 20 cabins are equipped with bunks, a wood stove and an outhouse, however, there is no electricity or running water. Be sure to bring a sleeping bag and plenty of drinking water. Firewood may be purchased or gathered at the site. Reservations are only accepted by mail.

Related: Boston's Best Cross Fit Studios

Kim Vareika is the owner of Vareika Personal Training and Yoga in Plainville. She has been in the fitness industry for over ten years, and believes that wellness is about more than just physical health. When she is not teaching, practicing, or writing, she resides in Bridgewater where she enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her nephew Caesar. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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