Massachusetts camping near Lakeville offers seasonal options from April through October, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 85°F during peak camping season. The area sits at approximately 100 feet above sea level, featuring kettle ponds formed by retreating glaciers that now serve as swimming spots for campers. Most campgrounds close for winter with limited year-round alternatives.
What to do
Hiking trails: Myles Standish State Forest provides numerous wooded trails for all skill levels within a short drive from Lakeville. "There are miles of bike trails and ponds for fishing, swimming, and boating," notes one visitor to Barretts Pond Campground. Another camper mentions East Pond's "nice 3 miles trail around the circumference" for an easy day hike.
Canal biking: The Cape Cod Canal Bikeway offers a paved path along the waterway accessible from several area campgrounds. "A nice bike path along the waterway is literally feet away from the tent sites," explains a reviewer at Scusset Beach State Reservation, which sits at the canal's beginning. The path runs approximately 7 miles along the northern side of the canal.
Seasonal beach swimming: Scusset Beach State Reservation provides direct beach access with lifeguards on duty from about 10am during summer months. "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," reports one camper. Beach parking requires a separate fee during peak season.
What campers like
Pond fishing: Multiple kettle ponds throughout the region offer freshwater fishing opportunities, with some campers reporting good catches. At Myles Standish State Forest, one visitor described "watching the people catching good sized fish" while kayaking. The ponds are spring-fed, contributing to their clarity.
Off-season quiet: Visiting after Labor Day provides a more peaceful experience at most campgrounds. "The Sunday, and Monday nights, the 7 closest spots to us were empty, it was like having the woods to ourselves," shared a camper at Myles Standish. Most facilities remain open through October with reduced crowding.
Dog-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer designated dog areas, including Ellis-Haven Family Campground where pets are welcome throughout the property. While some locations restrict pets from swimming areas, alternatives exist: "Although dogs can't swim in Barrett pond, they are welcome in the campground and can swim at the nearby East Pond."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campgrounds in the region vary significantly in site quality and privacy. At Pinewood Lodge Campground, "We were lucky enough to get a site by the pond. There was great views from our site of the pond." Research specific site numbers before booking.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads or facilities. One Myles Standish camper noted, "It is very close to Rt 6 so the traffic noise is almost constant especially friday nights. Not recommended for light sleepers." Sites further from main roads typically offer more peace.
Shower variations: Shower facilities differ across locations, with some requiring quarters. At Pinewood Lodge, a camper mentioned, "Don't like that you have to pay for hot water though." Bring quarters if staying at campgrounds with coin-operated showers.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Boston/Cape Cod KOA offers multiple play areas for children of different ages. "They had a big store and plenty of supplies and souvenirs... 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," reports one family.
Swimming options: Ellis-Haven Family Campground features a pond with swimming structures. "Very nice beach on the pond, with lots of docks and rafts to swim out to. They also rent paddle boats," notes one visitor. Most water activities operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Activity schedules: Plan around organized events at family-oriented campgrounds. A Boston/Cape Cod KOA visitor shared, "The activities for kids is the draw for this campground for sure. My kids loved the train rides, movie night, flash light candy hunt, and arts and crafts."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require equipment for leveling RVs. At Bourne Scenic Park, "Leveling was not an issue for us in our site (C-25) but the majority of sites would be a problem for a motorhome to get level without the aid of blocks. In fact, some sites were ridiculously unlevel and took a scary amount of blocks."
Canal access consideration: RV sites at Bourne Scenic Park offer unique canal proximity. "The park is on the banks of the Cape Cod Canal... Some of which have views of the canal." Sites facing the canal often fill first during peak season bookings.
Extended season options: Some campgrounds offer longer RV seasons. "Scusset Beach offers an extended camping season, although the extended season is restricted to self-contained units as the restrooms are turned off," mentions a late-season visitor. This extends camping opportunities into November for RVers with onboard facilities.
