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Best Campgrounds near Chatham, MA

308 Reviews

The Cape Cod region surrounding Chatham, Massachusetts features a variety of established campgrounds catering to different camping preferences. Nickerson State Park Campground in nearby Brewster stands as one of the area's premier camping destinations, offering tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and even yurts within a wooded setting. Several private campgrounds like Sweetwater Forest and Shady Knoll provide more secluded options with full hookups and amenities. Old Chatham Road RV Resort offers dedicated RV camping closer to town. For those seeking beach proximity, Atlantic Oaks Campground in Eastham and Campers Haven RV Resort in Dennisport provide easier access to Cape Cod's famous shorelines, while Sandy Neck Beach Park offers primitive camping for more adventurous visitors.

Camping in this region operates primarily as a seasonal activity, with most campgrounds open from April through October. Massachusetts state parks enforce strict regulations, including alcohol prohibitions that surprise some visitors. As one camper noted, "When you are sitting by the campfire, sometimes chilling with a beer is nice. Not in Massachusetts State Parks." Reservation systems vary by property, with state parks using ReserveAmerica and private campgrounds maintaining their own booking platforms. Summer weekends see heavy traffic across Cape Cod, particularly near the Sagamore Bridge. Many campgrounds charge higher rates for out-of-state visitors, especially at state-managed properties.

The Cape Cod Rail Trail represents a significant attraction for campers, connecting multiple campgrounds to beaches, towns, and natural areas. According to one Nickerson State Park visitor, "The park is located on the main bike trail on the Cape. We have biked to ice cream shops, restaurants and a nearby beach." Kettle ponds throughout the area offer swimming opportunities away from ocean crowds. Sites with shade receive high praise during summer months, with one Sweetwater Forest camper noting it was "the quietest campground during quiet hours that I've ever visited." Most campgrounds maintain strict quiet hours from approximately 10:30pm to 7:30am, creating a family-friendly atmosphere throughout the region.

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Best Camping Sites Near Chatham, Massachusetts (42)

    1. Nickerson State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    Orleans, MA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (508) 896-3491

    $22 - $55 / night

    "It is at the edge of the Cape Cod Rail Trail bike Path from where you can access both bay side and ocean beaches by bike. it is also walking distance to a bayside beach."

    "We even got the Massachusetts resident discount with his home address. When we arrived, it was a very easy check in. They gave us directions to our site and even to the store to buy fire wood."

    2. Sweetwater Forest

    16 Reviews
    Brewster, MA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (508) 896-3773

    "Walking my dog late at night or early in the morning was absolutely silent. The camp store was well stocked and offered hot coffee and a variety of grocery items."

    "Nothing but positive things to say, if you haven’t tried it, defintely do. C loop sites our favorite, but really not a terrible site in the place, depending on what you camp in."

    3. Shady Knoll Campground

    16 Reviews
    Brewster, MA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (508) 896-3002

    $50 - $88 / night

    "There’s a great walking trail connected to the campground. They have good access to the bay beaches and the Cape Cod Rail Trail- although you do have to drive ona busy road to get there."

    "Well situated within Brewster, with a great small grocery store a two minute walk from the campground entrance."

    4. Atlantic Oaks Campground

    7 Reviews
    North Eastham, MA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (508) 255-1437

    $50 - $104 / night

    "There are a few really nice tent sites next to the playground, close to the store, showers, and restrooms.

    Facilities were uncrowded and very clean."

    "Access to the Cape Cod bike trail @ the campground. Clean facilities. We like more secluded sites but for a last minute reservation the local spots are too good to miss."

    5. Campers Haven RV Resort

    3 Reviews
    Dennis Port, MA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (508) 398-2811

    "Private beach and close to many other areas. Office staff nice and helpful."

    "Came over, from her nearby home, to welcome us at gate with a super friendly, upbeat smile and a gift kit for our pup. Made us feel so WELCOME!"

    6. Old Chatham Road RV Resort

    3 Reviews
    South Dennis, MA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    7. Wellfleet Hollow State Campground

    4 Reviews
    South Wellfleet, MA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (508) 349-3007

    $22 - $55 / night

    "We've been camping at Wellfleet Hollow (formerly Paine's Campground) for close to thirty years. "

    "Right on the rail trail. Wellfleet beaches and glacial kettle ponds don’t require a parking sticker Labor Day- 2nd weekend in June."

    8. Maurices Campground

    1 Review
    North Eastham, MA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (508) 349-2029

    "Great campground on the outer cape, CC Rail trail goes right behind it so you can hop on your bike and ride. Showers and bathrooms were clean and the tent sites were good size."

    9. Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites

    4 Reviews
    West Barnstable, MA
    19 miles
    Website

    $20 / night

    "The park has 5 dispersed sites located 3-4 miles from the trailhead with picnic tables and an outhouse."

    "All around a great place to camp"

    10. Adventure Bound Camping Resorts Cape Cod: North Truro

    13 Reviews
    North Truro, MA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (508) 487-1847

    $55 - $219 / night

    "Loved the proximity to the beach. Convenient drive to Provincetown. Great spot. Unfortunately didn’t have full hookup as we had requested."

    "Beautiful site, close proximity to the beach. Easy to book."

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Recent Camping Photos near Chatham, MA

106 Photos of 42 Chatham Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Chatham, MA

308 Reviews of 42 Chatham Campgrounds

  • G
    Sep. 3, 2025

    Coastal Acres Campground

    Favorite campsite of all time

    Absolutely adore this campground. Much of what others have said in the reviews is true – the sites are small and there’s not a ton of privacy in many spots (although you certainly can find more private spots if you know which to book). But none of this is really matters given the location. Less than 10 minute walk to downtown Provincetown, and an extremely safe, enjoyable walk. You cannot beat the access to one of the best towns in the world. The campground also felt very safe and incredibly quiet.

  • Matt S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Atlantic Oaks Campground

    Great home base for Cape Cod

    We spent a week in Cape Cod at Atlantic Oaks Campground and so glad we did. We paid $113 per night plus fees for a FHU 50 Amp Pull-thru site(#A6). 

    This campground makes a great home-base while touring Cape Cod. 

    THINGS I LIKED: 

    • Great location in Eastham— with access to National Seashore, Provincetown, several great beaches and lighthouses, and much more 
    • Beautiful park setting with well-kept natural landscaping including lots of mature shade trees 
    • Access to Cape Cod Rail Trail right from the campground— bring your bikes 
    • Our hookup utilities all worked fine 
    • This may seem like a silly thing to comment on, but I like how they installed mini picket fences to block the view of the sewer connections from the neighbors— this is a great idea I wish other campgrounds would do too(see the photos) 

    THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH: 

    • Just one thing that bothered me— the sites were all sandy dirt which made everything dirty and dusty(gravel would be an appreciated improvement) 

    WOULD WE COME BACK? 

    Absolutely, this is a nice place with plenty to do 

    WANT A FUN TIP? 

    Check out Wellfleet Drive-in Theatre, just a couple minutes away. We saw Jaws(Jaws~ in Cape Cod!) and had a great evening.

  • R
    Jul. 3, 2025

    Jellystone Park™ Cranberry Acres

    Warning…total bug infestation from our stay

    I was not going to write a review because I truly believe in giving places a fair chance. But after speaking with the district manager I feel I need to give a warning to anyone planning their vacation here. Today is Thursday, we were at cranberry acres from last Thursday until Monday. Our stay was awesome. We did it all the campground offered and had a blast. We stayed with our friends who rented the cabin next to us. Today we discovered that the brand new paper towels I bought from Shawn’s last week and kept(open) under the sink in our cabin were completely infested with what our exterminator says are weevils. The bugs poured out of the bag in a hallway downstairs, are all over the floor, in the guest room and in the bathroom. So now on top of this vacation we are now having to have an exterminator come treat our house for these bugs. We are avid“glampers” with our friends. This is something we do all summer all over New England for years now and this is the very first time we’ve ever experienced something like this. The manager at the campground was wonderful and apologized profusely and called the district manager to call me. This is where things went off the rails. He stated“how do we know they didn’t come from Shaws?”.“Well the unit has been rented and we have had no complaints“. which seeing that this is now three days later I’m sure there isn’t yet.“well thank you for letting us know, we will keep an eye out.”. In all fairness the resort was great, lots to do and we filled every day. The infestation from this vacation does not feel worth the experience. If you stay please keep everything sealed and wash every thing that you bring thoroughly when you get home so you do not wind up in the situation we are in.

  • A
    Jun. 26, 2025

    Charge Pond Campground — Myles Standish State Forest

    Quiet and spacious sites

    We stayed in loop b south, which is really not a loop but a dead end. Very quiet, and we were the only people in the loop for a couple of days. Sites are nice and level and large. Vegetation between sites for privacy.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 16, 2025

    Coastal Acres Campground

    Very nice place

    It’s a great location and within walking distance distance to Commercial Street.

    The campground staff is very friendly and helpful and there is a little store on property that you can buy thing like milk, snacks and essentials for camping. They also have t-shirts, etc for purchase.

    Campground d is very quiet and spacious and lots of wildlife around. A turkey wandered thru our site.

    Sites are easy to get in and out of. Kind of close but not a problem for us.

    We will absolutely come here again!!!

  • Colin R.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 27, 2025

    Dunes' Edge Campground - Provincetown Camping

    A bit cold in May, otherwise a great stay.

    The staff were very helpful and friendly. They do have some strict rules about plastic bottles and using the dish washing stations. Also, it costs twenty five cents for a three minute shower. Overall, a very nice and well managed campsite.

  • Michi P.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 21, 2025

    Scusset Beach State Reservation

    Great place

    Was windy and, over cast on our visit, but there is lot’s do. The campground is very clean and well maintained, the staff is very friendly. The showers are clean, free and the water is hot. I would definitely come back.

  • Michi P.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 21, 2025

    Scusset Beach State Reservation

    Great place

    Friendly staff, nice level pads, clean campground, nice hot showers, quiet and close proximity to lots of things. Loved our site and I would stay again.

Guide to Chatham

Camping near Chatham, Massachusetts, offers a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors while soaking in the beauty of Cape Cod. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your next adventure.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Swimming: Explore the scenic trails around Nickerson State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Hikes around the ponds and swimming is lovely." This park is known for its beautiful kettle ponds, perfect for a refreshing dip.
  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Wompatuck State Park Campground, provide access to nearby beaches. A reviewer noted, "You have everything you need there: firewood, bathrooms, and a camp pit," making it a great base for beach days.
  • Fishing and Boating: Campers at Myles Standish State Forest enjoy fishing and swimming. One visitor said, "Great swimming spot for the family," highlighting the fun water activities available.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Shawme Crowell State Forest stated, "Bathrooms were super updated and always clean!" This is a common theme across many campgrounds.
  • Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A camper at Sweetwater Forest mentioned, "The sites are secluded and spaced decently apart," making it a peaceful getaway.
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often rave about the helpfulness of campground staff. One visitor at Boston/Cape Cod KOA said, "Staff and Management are available to help," which adds to the overall experience.

What you should know:

  • Crowded in Summer: Many campgrounds can get busy during peak season. A reviewer at Nickerson State Park Campground noted, "This campground gets very busy in summer," so plan accordingly.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Wompatuck State Park Campground, may not have extensive amenities. A visitor mentioned, "You don't have the feeling of being really in the woods," which might be a downside for some.
  • Reservation Recommendations: It's wise to book your spot in advance, especially during the summer months. A camper at Boston/Cape Cod KOA advised, "I recommend having reservations if you want to stay at this campground."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. A family at Shady Knoll Campground enjoyed, "The kids loved the playground but missed a swimming pool."
  • Activities for Kids: Many campgrounds offer organized activities. A reviewer at Marthas Vineyard Family Campground mentioned, "Activities for the kids such as tie-dyeing, candy bar bingo, etc."
  • Outdoor Space: Choose campgrounds with ample outdoor space for kids to play. A camper at Sweetwater Forest noted, "Beautiful playgrounds (yes multiple)," which is great for family fun.

Tips from RVers:

  • Big Rig Friendly: Many campgrounds cater to larger RVs. A visitor at Adventure Bound Camping Resorts Cape Cod said, "The site itself was level, location was quiet," making it suitable for RVs.
  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds that offer electric hookups. A camper at Massasoit State Park Campground appreciated the availability of "electric hookups" for convenience.
  • Proximity to Attractions: Choose campgrounds that are close to local attractions. A reviewer at Myles Standish State Forest mentioned, "Great place to get away for a little while," highlighting the campground's accessibility to nearby sites.

Camping near Chatham, Massachusetts, provides a mix of outdoor fun, family-friendly activities, and beautiful scenery. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone in this charming area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Chatham campgrounds?

Campgrounds near Chatham offer varying levels of amenities to accommodate different camping styles. Wellfleet Hollow State Campground provides basic, rustic camping with some sites requiring walk-in access and separate parking. While it offers inexpensive options, amenities are minimal. For more facilities, Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground provides hot showers and bathroom facilities, though cleanliness may vary. The campground features two distinct areas, with the second area including a playground for families. Most campgrounds in the region offer water access, toilets, and tent sites, while some also accommodate RVs with appropriate hookups.

Do I need reservations for camping in Chatham during summer months?

Reservations are strongly recommended for camping in and around Chatham during summer months. Scusset Beach State Reservation becomes extremely popular in summer, especially on weekends, with heavy traffic near the Sagamore Bridge. Its beachfront location makes it a prime destination that fills quickly. Similarly, Marthas Vineyard Family Campground on one of Massachusetts' most popular islands requires advance planning. Cape Cod is a major summer destination, and campgrounds throughout the region experience high demand from June through August. Book as far in advance as possible, especially for holiday weekends and prime waterfront sites.

Where are the campgrounds in Chatham, MA located?

Chatham and the surrounding Cape Cod area offer several camping options at various locations. Coastal Acres Campground is conveniently located within walking distance of downtown Chatham, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and music venues. For those willing to venture slightly outside Chatham, Nickerson State Park Campground is nearby in Brewster, situated along the Cape Cod Rail Trail with access to both bay side and ocean beaches. Additional options in the broader Cape Cod region include campgrounds in Wellfleet, Truro, and at the entrance to Cape Cod near the Sagamore Bridge.

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