Glamping near Chatham, Massachusetts offers natural forest surroundings with convenient access to Cape Cod beaches. The area sits at just 49 feet above sea level, creating a mild maritime climate with summer temperatures averaging 75°F during peak camping season from June through September. Winter camping options exist, but most luxury camping facilities in the region operate seasonally from April through October.
What to do
Bike trail exploration: The Cape Cod Rail Trail spans 22 miles and connects to multiple campgrounds in the area. At Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground, guests can access nearby trails. One camper noted, "Bike path along the canal, easy access," while another mentioned that "the Cape Cod Canal Bikeway is nearby and provides easy biking and exploration."
Canal fishing: The Cape Cod Canal offers excellent fishing opportunities just minutes from camping areas. At Bourne Scenic Park, the canal provides prime fishing spots. A visitor shared, "If you like fishing this is your place," while another mentioned seeing "fisherman reel in some massive fish" along the canal.
Beach exploration: The outer Cape beaches are accessible from several campgrounds. At North of Highland Camping Area, campers can walk directly to Head of the Meadow Beach. As one visitor reported, "There is a short 5-10 min walk to Head of The Meadow Beach which is part of the NPS. The Cape Cod National Seashore was beautiful. We went to the beach there every evening and were greeted each time by seals!"
What campers like
Freshwater swimming alternatives: Beyond ocean beaches, several campgrounds feature freshwater swimming options. Visitors appreciate these alternatives to crowded saltwater beaches. A camper at Peters Pond RV Resort shared, "The pool and pond were both great for swimming and they did have some lounge chairs to use at pond."
Private wooded sites: Many campers value secluded sites that provide a forest experience. At Sweetwater Forest, one camper described, "We were on site B17 and it was perfect. Complete 360 privacy, well wooded, and just what was needed. Listen to the sounds of frogs at night was kinda awesome."
Walking distance to attractions: Some campgrounds offer proximity to towns and attractions without requiring driving. A camper at Coastal Acres Campground appreciated that "This place was basically in town!! It was so great to walk into town every day," while another noted you are "within walking distance of all downtown activities."
What you should know
Site spacing varies widely: Campground density differs significantly between properties. Some offer spacious sites while others place campers in close proximity. A visitor to Coastal Acres Campground mentioned, "Sites are a tight squeeze but the charm is unmistakable," while another noted, "the sites are small and there's not a ton of privacy in many spots."
Fire restrictions: Many Cape Cod campgrounds have specific fire rules that differ from mainland camping areas. At North of Highland Camping Area, "No fires are allowed in the campground itself due to fire restrictions, but you can easily get beach fire permits to have one on the beach."
Reservation timing: Cape Cod campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. A visitor to Sweetwater Forest noted, "Only drawbacks are that there are limited full hookup big rig sites, and they book up in advance; also water view sites down at the pond also book up in advance."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Bourne Scenic Park, families enjoy "Lots of playgrounds for different ages" and a "Bounce pad (in-ground)" according to reviews. Another camper mentioned the park has "a playground area" that kids love.
Kid-friendly water activities: Freshwater ponds provide safer swimming for young children than ocean beaches with strong currents. At Peters Pond RV Resort, "Kids loved the little pool slide. Also enjoyed the golf cart rentals."
Quiet hour enforcement: For families needing consistent sleep schedules, some campgrounds strictly enforce quiet times. North of Highland Camping Area "owners are VERY strict on their quiet hours policy (1030pm – 730am)," which parents appreciate for maintaining bedtime routines.
Tips from RVers
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups or convenient dump stations. At Bourne Scenic Park, "No on site drainage for black water (grey takes an adapter). You will need a poop tote," while "grey water dump stations are randomly placed throughout the campground."
Site leveling challenges: Some Cape Cod campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. At Bourne Scenic Park, "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."
Space considerations: Larger RVs face challenges at certain campgrounds. A visitor to Dunes' Edge Campground advised, "This campground is pretty tight if you have a big rig, but our 24ft was just fine. It's a big hill with a tight squeeze to enter the campground."
