Tent campsites near Brewster, Massachusetts offer diverse settings across the Cape Cod peninsula, where average summer temperatures reach 80°F with cooler nights around 65°F. Most sites require advance booking through Massachusetts' reservation system. Cape Cod's camping season generally runs from mid-May through Columbus Day, with peak demand during July and August.
What to do
Beach exploration and swimming: Wellfleet beaches and glacial kettle ponds near Wellfleet Hollow State Campground don't require parking stickers from Labor Day until the second weekend in June. "Great Pond and Long Pond are both close by and lovely swimming. You can also walk to Duck Pond from the campground," notes camper Cal K.
Stargazing opportunities: The National Seashore area provides excellent night sky viewing due to limited light pollution. "At night you can go out to the power lines for some of the best star gazing on the East Coast," shares Tom C. about Wellfleet Hollow.
Biking and rail trails: Access the Cape Cod Rail Trail directly from several campgrounds for miles of paved cycling paths. "It's a short bike ride to the Cape Cod Rail Trail which is wonderful," explains a Wellfleet Hollow visitor. Many local shops offer rental equipment if you don't bring your own bikes.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The campground layout at Wellfleet Hollow creates natural separation. "The sites are well spaced so you don't feel too crowded and the terrain is a bit hilly so it's got a nice, rustic feel to it," mentions Tom C. The elevation changes throughout the campground help create visual barriers between neighboring campers.
Shaded camping areas: Tree cover provides natural temperature control during hot summer days. "The campsite itself is wonderful with a tree canopy that lets in plenty of light but won't let you be baked with hot sun," reports a longtime Wellfleet visitor.
Water access and views: Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites offers direct beach proximity with permission for evening campfires. "Right on the water, relaxing and sunny most of the time! Campfires allowed at night, and pets are allowed. All around a great place to camp," writes Matt R.
What you should know
Site accessibility varies significantly: Many campgrounds have sites requiring substantial walking. "First off, great spot to camp on the Cape for cheap. However, the booking site is a little confusing in terms of if your site will have room for a car. Some don't and you have to park in the parking lot which can be a haul to your site," warns Will A. about Wellfleet Hollow.
Boat-access only camping: Washburn Island Campsites requires water transportation to reach. "You need a boat or a ride out there, close to the main land so a canoe/kayak would work," explains Tim C. The island features 10 campsites with water views.
Challenging sandy terrain: Beach camping requires physical preparation. Sandy Neck sites involve "trekking through sand without any sun coverage and with all of your gear," according to Anna C. The park staff can deliver water and firewood to backcountry sites for a fee.
Reservation requirements: Most campsites must be booked in advance, with different systems for each location. "Campsites can be reserved 6 months in advance so it is tough to get one during the summer months but great camping in May, September, and October as well," notes Tim C. about Washburn Island.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites based on bathroom proximity: When camping with children, consider facilities. Wellfleet Hollow offers "nice outdoor showers with hot water and clean restrooms with wash sink for dishes," according to Cal K. Sites near bathrooms provide convenience but may have more foot traffic.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Natural areas around campgrounds provide educational encounters. "Wild turkeys moved through camp during my visit," mentions a Wellfleet Hollow camper. Morning hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Consider shoulder season visits: For quieter family camping experiences with lower rates and fewer crowds, book outside peak summer months. "Camped there May 20-25 and there were only 1-2 other sites being used," reports Tim C. about Washburn Island.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions limit options: Most Cape Cod tent campgrounds have strict vehicle length requirements. Wellfleet Hollow limits campers to "tents and short trailers/campers only, with length <15' and only 1 unit/vehicle per site," explains Jean C. Roads within campgrounds often feature tight turns and narrow passages.
Electric hookups available at select sites: While primarily tent-focused, some campgrounds offer limited amenities for small campers. "There is 20A electric on a number of the sites," notes a Wellfleet Hollow reviewer. Check individual site descriptions carefully when booking.
