Sounds like a great plan! x2 on Normandy Farms, but make sure to get a site in the regular part of the campground. The "Safari" area is cheek-to-jowl, no shade, like a parking lot on the grass. The regular section (most of the CG) is shady and pretty. Haven't ever been to Minuteman so I can't say how it compares. If you don't want to drive into Boston itself, you can drive from the CG to a suburban "T" (aka MBTA) station and take commuter rail into & around the city. (Fun fact: a "Charlie" ticket for the T also can cover the Boston water taxis - great for sightseeing!) Boston is one city I have never - and WILL never - drive in. Sorry, Bostonians, but as drivers, y'all are crazy. :)
As for planning the big western trip, I'd suggest using several different sources. The national park sites via nps.gov have "planning your trip" sections on them which can help with campgrounds, things to see, etc. I like your idea of spending 1-2 weeks in each national park area you visit! Most aren't lucky enough to have that kind of time. Consider staying in some national forest CGs near national parks - campsites may be slightly less expensive. Another site that I find very helpful is rvparkreviews.com. Great for choosing CGs that fit your needs, based on reviews by people who have actually stayed there. Others here may have other suggestions; I tend to use old-fashioned (paper) maps to plan our routes, and do the CG and sightseeing research from there.
