Glamping options near Aquinnah, Massachusetts provide easy access to Martha's Vineyard's westernmost point where multicolored clay cliffs rise 150 feet above the Atlantic. The region experiences milder temperatures than mainland Massachusetts due to ocean effects, with average summer temperatures ranging 75-85°F. Winter camping remains popular with temperatures rarely dropping below 20°F, making the area suitable for year-round outdoor recreation.
What to do
Beach access from campgrounds: Scusset Beach State Reservation offers direct beach access with white, rock-free sand and minimal crowds even during peak periods. A camper noted, "The beach is clean, with beautiful, white, rock-free sand. There's a small snack bar with basic food options, bathroom and locker room facilities, picnic tables and plenty of parking."
Bike the Cape Cod Canal: The Scusset Beach State Reservation campground provides immediate access to the Cape Cod Canal Bikeway. "The cape cod bike path and lots of great fishing off canal located right next to campground," mentions a reviewer, making it an ideal base for exploring the waterway.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds and waterways offer fishing throughout the region. At Pinewood Lodge Campground, campers appreciate the pond access: "There was great views from our site of the pond. On the site there was also a path down to a little dock on the pond that you could sit and relax on."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: While some glamping sites near Aquinnah can be crowded, Charge Pond Campground — Myles Standish State Forest offers more secluded options. A visitor shared, "The sites are large and shady but don't have water or electric. The bath houses are clean and accessible."
Off-season tranquility: Many campgrounds near Aquinnah become significantly less crowded after Labor Day. According to one camper at Burlingame State Park Campground, "We were there the weekend after Labor Day weekend in 2014, and it was pretty quiet. Nice for biking, cute little beach, dog friendly."
Wooded sites: Forested camping spots provide shade and natural beauty. A Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground visitor noted, "Great forest. Nothing like the rest of cape cod. Lots of pines and trails through the woods. Plenty of space/availability."
What you should know
Limited tent sites at some locations: At Scusset Beach State Reservation, tent camping options are restricted. One reviewer warns, "There are only 5 designated tent sites during the peak season, so if you want to tent camp here, you'd best make a reservation well in advance."
Shower facilities vary widely: Some campgrounds require quarters for showers. At Pinewood Lodge Campground, a camper mentioned, "Hot showers were awesome (.25 cents per 3 minutes) and the stone fire pits were a hit."
Seasonal restrictions: Cape Cod Campresort & Cabins can be noisy during peak season. A camper observed, "I've been camping for over twenty years and this campground is by far the noisiest campground I have ever been to. If you are looking for any sort of peace and quiet this is NOT the place for you."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Many campgrounds welcome pets with specific amenities. A visitor to Pinewood Lodge Campground noted, "There are signs posted No dogs allowed on the road to the beach or other areas in the campground, limits walking. There is a dog park, though."
Playground availability: When glamping close to Aquinnah, Massachusetts with children, playgrounds can be essential. According to one visitor at Bourne Scenic Park, "Lots of playgrounds for different ages, bounce pad (in-ground), pool, stair access to canal bike path."
Swimming options beyond beaches: Boston/Cape Cod KOA offers multiple water activities. "As we pulled around the office we saw all kinds of activities for kids. Bouncy 'pillow', pool, bounce pad, sluice, miniature golf, and a playground," reported one family.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Cape Cod Campresort & Cabins, site quality varies significantly. One RVer advised, "Booked site in early July for Sept stay. Paid for a premium glamping site 2200 Sq ft with paver patio. Didn't pay site lock fee as I didn't care which site I got as long as was the same type of site."
Leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven sites. A visitor to Myles Standish State Forest mentioned, "Leveling was not an issue for us in our site but the majority of sites would be a problem for a motorhome to get level without the aid of blocks."
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary by campground. A camper at Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground pointed out, "No electricity at sites. Small camp store. Decent privacy. Not too loud. Wonderful location. Awesome playground. Price cant be beat."